DecorWedding Planning
by Joy Editors
written by Joy Editors
The average cost of wedding flowers is $2,200, with the average floral budget accounting for 8-10% of a wedding’s total cost.
Whether we’re talking about your gorgeous bouquet, the petals tossed by your darling flower child, or the centerpieces that bring your reception decor together, flowers make a big impact on any wedding. But what are all those blooms going to cost you?
Together, we’ll unravel the mysteries of floral budgets, offering insights into the average cost of wedding flowers. Understanding how their cost works within your total wedding budget guarantees that every petal you pick contributes to an unforgettable experience.
Table of contents
- How Much Do Flowers Cost for a Wedding?
- Which flower arrangements do I need?
- Factors Affecting Wedding Flowers Cost
- How to Create Your Wedding Flower Budget
- 5 Ways to Save on Your Wedding Flowers
- Wedding Flowers Cost FAQ
How Much Do Flowers Cost for a Wedding?
According to Fash.com’s data collected from over 10,000 local businesses, the average cost of wedding flowers is $2,200. The typical amount spent on flowers ranges from $500 to $3,500. However, your floral budget will depend heavily on how many flower arrangements you plan to have on your special day. Here’s a breakdown of what you could expect to pay:
| Arrangement | Average cost range per item |
| Primary bouquet | $100-$350 |
| Attendants bouquets | $50-$110 |
| Boutonnieres | $10-$30 |
| Corsages | $20-$40 |
| Flower child’s petals | $20-$50 |
| Altar flowers | $60-$450 |
| Chuppah or floral arch | $200-$1,000 |
| Wedding aisle flowers per row | $30-$60 |
| Reception table centerpieces | $50-$600 |
| Sweetheart table centerpiece | $70-$500 |
| Cake table flowers | $30-$170 |
| Toss bouquet | $20-$60 |
Prices vary based on your wedding party size, the quantity of flowers you need, and other factors we’ll examine below.
Which flower arrangements do I need?
Your wedding budget and personal preferences will determine how many arrangements you want to include. While the primary bouquet is the quintessential wedding flower arrangement, fresh blossoms can bring a touch of elegance and beauty at many other points throughout your wedding celebration.
Let’s examine your options and the potential costs:
- Primary bouquet: The grandest bouquet on your wedding day, these can range from $100-$350 in price depending on the size and uniqueness of the blooms featured.
- Attendant bouquets: Usually smaller and less elaborate than the primary bouquet, attendant bouquet prices run from $50-110 on average. Their impact on your floral budget will depend on the number of attendants you have by your side.
- Boutonnieres: For the nearlywed(s) and attendants, small flower accessories worn just above their heart, or boutonnieres, will cost approximately $10-$30 for each person.
- Corsages: Wrist or lapel corsages are a lovely addition for the parents and grandparents of the happy couple. They’ll cost you an additional $20-$40 per item.
- Flower child’s petals: If you plan on having a little one walk down the aisle sprinkling flower petals, it’ll cost about $20-$50. Even if you plan to make your dog take on the fun role of “flower child,” you’ll want to set aside some budget for the petals they’ll need.
- Altar flowers: Weddings held in churches require bringing in your own decor to make the ceremony space more personalized and festive. Expect to spend anywhere from $60-$450 on an arrangement to lay on top or in front of your church’s altar.
- Chuppah or floral arch: Depending on your faith and location, you may opt for a beautiful floral garden arch as a backdrop for your ceremony. Or, if you’re Jewish, you’ll want to decorate the chuppah to make it special for your big day. Either option will typically run from $200-$1,000.
- Mala or flower garlands: Many cultures, such as Indian, Thai, and Hawaiian, use flower garlands to mark auspicious occasions. A fresh one brings vibrancy and beautiful scents to your big day. Depending on the types of flowers and greenery used, they typically cost between $60-$250.
- Reception table centerpieces: Create a visually cohesive reception by adding unique centerpieces to each guest’s table. Since these can range from small to extravagant, the average costs can range from $50-$600 each.
- Sweetheart table centerpiece: Some newlyweds opt for a table for two at their reception, known as a sweetheart table. With all eyes on them on their big day, a floral arrangement to decorate the table can cost $70-$500.
- Cake table flowers: The cutting of the cake is another spotlight moment, so floral decor on the cake table — or the cake itself — helps elevate the look. Because you may need only a few flowers versus full arrangements, the prices can range from $30-$170.
- Toss bouquet: A nearlywed who wants to keep their bouquet may choose to incorporate a smaller and less elaborate bouquet to toss to the crowd. Since toss bouquets are meant to be thrown about, less expensive flowers are often used, making prices range from $20-$60.
Factors Affecting Wedding Flowers Cost
Floral budgets naturally vary depending on the wedding. Understanding how they evolved will help you plan your entire wedding better. There are four important elements to keep in mind:
- Flower Selection: Different blooms come with different price tags, so your choice of flowers plays a key role. Delicate flowers like orchids and peonies will cost you three to four times as much as daisies and carnations.
- Seasonal Availability: Opting for flowers in season can significantly impact cost and ensure freshness. If you’re dreaming of tulips for your winter wedding, you will have to pay extra.
- Arrangement Complexity: Elaborate designs and intricate arrangements may lead to additional costs. Your florist should be able to work with you to make sure you’re all on the same page to achieve a design style within your budget.
- Venue Size: The scale of your venue influences the quantity of flowers you’ll need, impacting the overall expense. If your ceremony and reception are held in two different locations, you’ll likely want flowers decorating both spaces.
How to Create Your Wedding Flower Budget
There’s a lot to consider when strategizing the perfect floral budget for your wedding. Follow these steps when you and your partner are ready to map out your wedding costs.
- Define Your Priorities: Identify the floral elements that matter most to you. Are you envisioning a showstopping bouquet or enchanting table centerpieces? Or something small but charming that you can put together on your own?
- Research Average Costs: Get a sense of the average expenses for wedding flowers in your region to set realistic expectations. The Wedding Report, a market research firm, offers a helpful Wedding Cost Estimator that identifies the average floral decoration and other costs for weddings in your area.
- Consider Seasonal Blooms: Opting for flowers in season can enhance freshness and trim costs. If you’re working with one, ask your florist questions to learn which flowers are more cost-effective for the timing of your wedding.
- Consult with Florists: Engage in open conversations with florists to discuss your vision, preferences, and budget constraints. They will be willing to work with you to understand your options and can offer great insight and suggestions
- Explore Alternatives: Get creative! Consider cost-effective alternatives or DIY options to add a personal touch. Maybe silk or paper flowers are a better fit for your needs. Or perhaps you can borrow decor elements such as vases from a reliable source.
5 Ways to Save on Your Wedding Flowers
Planning your wedding budget can be a bit stressful and overwhelming at times. But there are ways to reduce the impact of wedding flower costs on your bottom line. Check out these six simple tips to help save money on wedding flowers:
- Choose Cost-Effective Flowers: Select blooms that align with your vision and wallet. Roses, carnations, and baby’s breath can be beautiful and affordable.
- DIY Centerpieces: Get hands-on by creating DIY wedding flower centerpieces. It adds a personal touch and can be a fun pre-wedding activity.
- Repurpose Ceremony Flowers: If possible, repurpose ceremony flowers for the reception to maximize their use.
- Opt for Seasonal Blooms: Embrace the beauty of what’s in season. It not only enhances freshness but can also be more budget-friendly.
- Greenery Focus: Incorporate lush greenery into your arrangements. It’s not only trendy but can also be more cost-effective.
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Wedding Flowers Cost FAQ
Do florists have a minimum for weddings?
Many florists require couples to meet a minimum amount for wedding services. Creating bespoke floral arrangements, ensuring the highest quality fresh blooms, and dedicating time to your unique and intricate designs all contribute to the overall cost.
How much should I tip the wedding florist?
It’s not mandatory, but many couples tip around 10-20% of the total floral bill, depending on the level of service and their overall satisfaction. If you’re unsure about the appropriate tipping etiquette, don’t be afraid to ask your florist directly in advance about tipping or consult their contract for any specific guidelines they may have included.
Should attendants pay for their bouquets?
No, the cost of attendants’ bouquets typically folds into the overall floral budget for the wedding. And if a celebrant has attendants wearing boutonnieres, those are also paid for by the wedding couple and/or their family.
Is it common to give away floral centerpieces at the end of the reception?
In general, it’s not common practice to give away floral centerpieces to guests at the end of the reception. The intricate floral decor designed for your reception table centerpieces may include elements on loan from the florist or venue. Instead of letting guests grab the flowers on their way out, some couples repurpose or donate the flowers to nursing homes, hospitals, or other community organizations.
Joy Editors
Joy’s thoughtful technology anticipates your needs and gives you the time to make your big day uniquely “you.” We’re here for you with inspiration and advice to make planning your wedding the joyful experience it was meant to be. Contact us at hello@withjoy.com.
