Proms, Corsages, and Bouts...

Proms, Corsages, and Bouts...

This is a topic we don't usually think about until the actual time of the event is upon us.  It's unlike any other event that takes place during the course of a florist's year, for many reasons, some good and some not so good.  I'd like to take a minute to discuss some of the elements that go into choosing the right florist to take care of your prom needs and how you, the customer, can prepare to make this another great floral event in your life.

You may wonder, "What goes into making a good corsage or boutonniere?" As a florist the first thing I would say is planning. Deciding what kind of corsage you want  to wear is the first step.  Are you going to carry a Tussie Mussie, which were very popular this year or are you going to go for a more traditional wrist corsage?  Are you looking to end up with a keepsake piece of jewelry or would you like some original wire work that is now available?  Have you decided on your dress - these colors will be important in making sure that you have coordinating ribbon choices? The answers to these questions should be available when you go to speak to the florist.  This makes your prom consultation so much easier.  Don't forget to give her the date of your prom and agree on a time for pick up.  She will also need your telephone number and billing information as all special orders are prepaid. Prom season is a flurry of activity, so it is best to get these details out of the way as early as possible.

The second step is your consultation.  It is your job to be ready with the answers to the above questions in order for the consult to go smoothly.  The most important part of the consult for the florist is listening and hearing what you want.  It is always fun to throw out some "fun" suggestions, but a good florist is one that will hear what you want and go with your choices. Do you want "bling", how about some baby pearls?, do you want roses or orchids or a combination of flowers? These are all choices you will need to make on the spot. You must be ready, so do your homework before you get there! 

My best suggestion is to know your local florist!   Establish a relationship with them beforehand so that you feel comfortable discussing what you really want with them.  You may want to stop by early before "prom-mania" starts and he or she can show you the types of flowers generally used,  or you can discuss any special ideas you may have.  This pre-consult visit also gives you the opportunity to take your time and look over books or pictures from previous years. During crunch time, a florist will not be able to do this, so get there early on in the season. 

And last but not least, don't wait until the last minute to place your order. Every florist wants to be able to give you the corsage of your dreams, but if you don't give them the time needed to place the order for your flowers, it can be disappointing on both ends. The florist will feel that she hasn't provided you with the experience you deserved and you may not be able to get  the exact corsage you wanted. 

Pick up day is usually one that is fun. You get to see your creation come to life, and the florist gets to see your reaction to her hard work. Many long hours go into getting that corsage from the planning stage to a "ready to wear" accessory. You are ready to go!!  Enjoy your evening out and don't forget to tag your florist in your FB photos!