It doesn’t matter how beautiful your location is, no wedding feels complete without lots of flowers! Not only do they create a gorgeous aesthetic, but they also help set the tone.

If you are not sure where to start, I spoke to a London wedding florist, Eloise, for tips on how to choose the right florist, as well as things to consider such as sustainable practices. Eloise has been working with flowers for over a decade and now owns Garage Florals.

When is the best time you would advise couples to book their wedding florist?

“Start looking a year before, but book them as soon as possible. Mainly because as a florist you can start getting excited about your clients’ flowers. Also, you might possibly be able to see what flowers are in season if you book them in advance enough- and get a real feel for that time of year!”

What should a couple think about when choosing their florist?

“Are they your vibe? Does the way they speak, speak to you? Don’t get swept away by Instagram followers and good photos, some filters are amazing at making boring arrangements look chic. Work with someone who has the same ethos as you- you wouldn’t eat at Angus steak house if you are vegan. Do you know what I mean?”

How would you describe your style of floristry?

“Definitely seasonal. I like to mix and match my floral style to each client. I get really excited when my couples give me a rough brief but come to me saying ‘we just love that you work seasonally’. It’s hard to get it all right, but I'm working on being as seasonal and loyal to British farmers as possible. I definitely prefer more floral, architectural style than lots of foliages.”

As a florist based in London, can you describe the most memorable city ceremony you have ever done? What flowers did you choose?

“I just did a really gorgeous wedding in a restaurant in Marylebone, and it was so divine. I think I’ve got so many memorable ones because I have couples that come to me, because of me. So they’re all really personal. I do really love a home wedding when they have it in their family garden or house. My favourite venue this year is MK11 or Shoreditch studios, it’s fresh, clean and gently industrial!”

Do you have any sustainable practices in place?

“Yes! This is so important! I try to use only British grown products (between March and October is imperative!). I also said no to floral foam about three years ago, and use only reusable and eco-friendly practices in my mechanics. I work with vegan, naturally dyed silk ribbons, silk is a bizarrely destructive industry and I am plant-based (duh, look at me!) so I have a silk-like ribbon maker/ supplier who is sensational.”

What is the biggest mistake you have seen couples make with their flowers?

“Going with money. I have written so many quotes, and then they’ll say we are going to make them ourselves. I totally get that weddings are expensive, but I think the general consensus is that people come away and think ‘I/ my friend/ my mother in law can do that for way cheaper’.

But it’s not just the actual flowers, you’re paying for suppliers, buying and sourcing the absolute best, knowing how to open a flower or keep it from going over, knowing the venues, having all the vessels that actually fit the flowers - and good freelancers. It takes a village to build a small wedding, so yes, unfortunately, it’s saying ‘so-and-so can do it cheaper’, they can but it’ll probably be rubbish (sorry mothers-in-law).”

What is the best piece of advice you have for couples planning their wedding flowers?

“ENJOY IT! Man, flowers are incredible and exquisite. And much like clothing, they express who you are and your personality. Planning your wedding can be really stressful and a little anxiety-inducing. Find the flowers you love, the florist you adore and plan what you need to - then leave it. Sit back, relax and enjoy the process of having it all done and made for you. It’s your wedding, enjoy every moment.”

Find out more about Garage Florals here.

If you are still looking for a London wedding venue, check out my top 10 favourites. As a London wedding celebrant, I know all the best hidden gems!