Why I Don’t Provide a Stem Count or Fixed Flower List in My Contracts

When couples plan their wedding flowers, one questions I receive is:
“Can you tell us exactly how many stems or what types of flowers will be in each arrangement?”

The honest answer is — I don’t supply a detailed stem count or a fixed flower list, and there are very good reasons for that! My goal is always to give you the most beautiful, full, and balanced arrangements possible while working within your agreed budget and style. Here’s why trusting me — and the process — ensures the best results for your wedding day.

1. Flowers Are Bought in Bunches, Not by the Stem

When purchasing flowers from growers or wholesalers, they’re sold in bunches — typically of 10, 20, 25, or even 50 stems per bunch. This means that sometimes I need to make small adjustments to what and how much I buy in order to stay within your budget.

For example, if I plan to buy 20 white roses but they’re only available in bunches of 25, that extra cost affects the overall flower spend and colour balance. To keep everything harmonious, I may reduce another white flower slightly — but don’t worry, your arrangements will always look full and cohesive.

2. Flower Size and Quality Can Vary Week to Week

Not all flowers are created equal! Some, like hydrangeas, come in a wide range of head sizes. One week they might be smaller and less expensive; another week, large and premium-quality hydrangeas may be the best available.

If I’m able to source those gorgeous, larger heads, I’ll need fewer to achieve the same lush look — even though they might cost a bit more.

At times, prices can also be lower than expected due to a good growing season and increased availability. When this happens, it may allow me to include a flower that was previously out of budget — one that can elevate and enrich the overall look of your arrangements.

This flexibility ensures I can always choose the best-quality blooms for your wedding rather than being limited by a rigid stem count.

Orchids

Orchids were never in the budget but due to seasonal availability they became a definite for me and the bride was over the moon.

3. Seasonal and Availability Substitutions

Nature doesn’t always cooperate — and that’s okay! Flowers like delphinium come in different varieties and lengths. If only shorter stems are available that week, I might substitute with stock or snapdragon to maintain the height and shape of your arrangements.

These small design adjustments ensure your arrangements still have the right texture, movement, and impact, even if specific varieties change.

4. Trusting the Design Process

Crocosmia, Fire lily, Coppertip

Orange was never discussed in the design process but as the bouquet came together I knew it needed more more. This elevated the design

Every wedding I create is completely bespoke — designed around your colour palette, aesthetic, and overall vision. Your contract will always include your must-have flowers — such as Hydrangea, Calla Lily, Anthurium, and Amaranthus — to ensure your arrangements feature the blooms most important to you.

Supporting flowers like Delphinium and Bells of Ireland will be chosen to complement these key ingredients and bring your vision to life.

By allowing flexibility, you’re giving me the freedom to select the very best flowers available that week — the freshest blooms in the perfect shades — so your arrangements are as stunning as possible.

In Summary

Not listing a stem count or fixed flower list isn’t about being vague — it’s about being creative, practical, and intentional. It allows me to:

• Work with nature and market availability, not against it.

• Choose the freshest, highest-quality flowers for your date.

• Keep your arrangements balanced, beautiful, and true to your vision.

When you trust me as your floral designer, you’re not just booking flowers — you’re investing in expertise, artistry, and flexibility to ensure your wedding florals are nothing short of breathtaking.

Trust the process, and let the flowers do the talking.