Clarity Makes Everything Bloom Beautifully
Wedding flowers are a major design element of your celebration — and because they require planning, labor, transportation, and fresh product, florists use contracts to protect both you and their business.
Understanding your floral contract upfront ensures you know exactly what you’re paying for, when payments are due, what your florist is responsible for, and how your flowers will be delivered and set up on the big day.
Here’s a clear, bride-friendly guide to help you feel confident when signing your floral contract.
1. Why Floral Contracts Are Important
A floral contract isn’t just paperwork — it’s a roadmap. It outlines:
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What floral designs you’re getting
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How much they cost
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How and when your florist will deliver and install them
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What happens if changes occur or unexpected issues arise
A detailed contract protects your vision and your budget, leaving no room for confusion.
2. Deposits: What to Expect Upfront
Most florists require a non-refundable deposit to reserve your date. This is standard in the wedding industry.
Typical Deposit Terms
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Usually 20–50% of your total floral order
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Due at the time of signing the contract
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Secures your florist for your wedding date
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Covers initial planning, mood boards, proposals, and time spent designing
💡 Ask if the deposit can be applied toward your final balance — in most cases, it is.
3. Payment Schedule and Final Balance
Your contract will outline when payments are due.
Most florists use a simple timeline:
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Deposit at booking
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Final payment due 30 days before the wedding
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Some accept installment plans depending on the total amount
This allows florists to purchase flowers, rentals, and supplies ahead of time.
💡 Always ask what payment methods are accepted (card, bank transfer, cash, etc.).
🌺 4. What’s Included in Your Floral Quote
Your contract will break down the floral elements you’re paying for, such as:
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Bridal bouquet
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Bridesmaid bouquets
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Boutonnières and corsages
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Ceremony arrangements
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Aisle décor
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Reception centerpieces
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Cake flowers
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Hanging installations or arches
It should also specify:
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Floral quantities
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Types of blooms (or “designer’s choice” if flexible)
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Color palette
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Props, stands, rentals, or vases included
✨ A clear itemized list ensures you know exactly what you’re receiving.
5. Substitutions and Seasonal Availability
Most contracts include a “substitution clause.”
This protects you in case:
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Certain flowers are unavailable
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Shipments arrive damaged
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Weather affects crop production
Your florist will always choose substitutes that:
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Match your palette
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Match your style
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Maintain your overall design vision
💡 Discuss your preferred backup blooms before signing.
6. Delivery Details: Timing, Fees & Logistics
Delivery is a major part of wedding floral work — it requires staff, transportation, and careful handling.
Your contract should outline:
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Delivery fees (flat rate or based on distance)
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Time flowers will be delivered to the bridal suite
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When ceremony florals will be set up
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Who is responsible for moving florals between spaces (e.g., ceremony → reception)
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Pickup times for rentals after the event
Ask whether your florist will remain on-site or return later for breakdown.
7. Setup & Installation: What’s Included
Florists handle much more than dropping off bouquets. Large installations require:
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Rigging
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Ladders
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Floral foam mechanics
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On-site design teams
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Hours of labor
Your contract should specify:
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What installations are included (arches, chandeliers, floral runners)
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How long setup will take
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When the team will arrive
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Number of staff attending
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Whether venue coordination is included
✨ For elaborate designs, setup may begin several hours before guests arrive.
8. Rental Items and Return Policies
Many florists provide rental pieces such as:
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Vaseware
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Candle holders
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Pedestals
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Arch frames
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Lanterns
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Flower stands
Your contract should explain:
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Which items are rentals
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Replacement fees for damaged items
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Pick-up schedule after the event
💡 Make sure your planner or coordinator knows what must be returned.
9. Changing Your Order: Deadlines Matter
Most florists allow adjustments but only up to a certain point — typically 30–60 days before the wedding.
This is because orders for flowers and supplies are placed weeks in advance.
Your contract will show:
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Deadlines for changes
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How price adjustments are handled
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Whether reductions are permitted (some vendors only allow additions)
Plan ahead to avoid last-minute charges.
10. Cancellation & Refund Policies
Every floral contract includes a cancellation policy.
Common terms include:
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Deposit is non-refundable
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Partial refunds may be available if canceled several months ahead
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No refunds within 30 days of the wedding due to flower ordering costs
Read this section carefully — it protects both you and your florist.
Final Thoughts: Understanding Your Contract Creates Peace of Mind
Your wedding flowers deserve the same attention as every other key part of your celebration.
A clear floral contract ensures:
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You know what you’re paying for
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You understand delivery and setup logistics
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You’re protected from surprises
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Your florist is set up for success
When you understand your contract, you step into your wedding day with confidence — knowing your florist will deliver beauty exactly as promised. 💐✨