How Much Should I Budget for Wedding Flowers?
Planning your wedding flowers is one of the most exciting parts of designing your wedding day. But, understanding how your floral budget translates into the overall look and feel of your celebration can be a mystery for many couples.
Let’s break it down to help you make informed and confident budget decisions.
WHY DO WEDDING FLOWERS COST MORE?
It’s natural to wonder why wedding flowers cost more than a simple bouquet from Woolworths or Netflorist, which typically ranges from R350–R600 per bunch.
While you wouldn’t plonk a Woolworths bunch onto your guest tables, comparing the two can help illustrate the process behind pricing wedding florals.
To transform that R350 bunch into a wedding arrangement, you’ll need:
Vases: Thoughtfully chosen to match your wedding aesthetic.
Preparation (labour & expertise): Stems trimmed, foliage stripped, roses reflexed, and flowers artfully arranged. Don’t forget about keeping your flowers alive and fresh, styling them on the table with a design plan in mind.
Now, factor in the behind-the-scenes costs:
Profit Margin: Floristry is a livelihood, not just a hobby.
Business Operations: Florists need to cover studio rent, tools, and transportation.
The formula looks something like this:
Cost of flowers x 3 (or more, depending on florist, location, and event) + labour + vases + decor rentals + mechanics + travel.
To break it down even further we have created examples of what you can expect at various budget levels.
WEDDING FLOWERS BUDGET LEVELS AND WHAT TO EXPECT
R10,000–R15,000
Perfect for intimate weddings or minimalist designs.
What’s Included:
A bridal bouquet and boutonniere.
Simple table arrangements using greenery or budget-friendly blooms (3 – 5 tables).
Modest ceremony decor, such as a single statement arrangement or aisle flowers.
R20,000–R40,000
Ideal for medium-sized weddings with thoughtful floral details.
Ceremony Flowers:
Floral statement pieces featuring greenery and floral pops, repurposed at the bridal table to save costs.
Confetti for guests (think greenery and fragrant herbs).
Reception Decor:
Minimalist arrangements in curated bud vases for 8–10 guest tables.
Bridal Party Florals:
One bridal bouquet and one – three bridesmaid bouquets.
Buttonholes for the groom and bridal party.
Additional Details:
Table linen and basic candles.
Styling elements like fruit or veggies for an organic touch.
Setup and Labour:
Travel, setup, breakdown, and handling fees for rented items.
R50,000–R70,000
For couples seeking luxury and floral abundance.
Ceremony Flowers:
Large-scale backdrops, aisle arrangements, and confetti.
Reception Decor:
Lush statement centrepieces and touches of premium blooms like orchids and peonies for 8–12 tables.
Multiple floral accents, including bar arrangements, cocktail table flowers, and signage decor.
Bridal Party Florals:
Floral-heavy bouquets featuring luxury blooms.
Additional Details:
Table linen and elegant candles.
Styling with fruit, veggies, and curated decor elements.
Setup and Labour:
Travel, setup, breakdown, and handling fees included.
R80,000 and Above
Perfect for grand celebrations or weddings with large guest lists.
Ceremony Flowers:
Floral heavy backdrops and aisle arrangements and confetti.
Reception Decor:
Elaborate centrepieces and luxurious blooms for all guest tables.
Enhanced floral accents across lounge pockets, signage, bar areas, and cake displays.
Bridal Party Florals:
Lush, customized bouquets featuring premium flowers.
Additional Details:
Elegant table linens, candles, and statement styling elements.
Setup and Labour:
Comprehensive travel, setup, and breakdown services included.
FINAL THOUGHTS
We hope this guide gives you a clearer understanding of how your floral budget impacts your wedding’s overall design. By working with a skilled florist and being upfront about your priorities, you can create a wedding that’s as meaningful as it is breathtaking. We’d love to help you make your floral dreams come true!
ABOUT MONETTE FERREIRA
Monette Ferreira, our in-house florist, is a passionate florist with over 10 years of experience in creating breathtaking floral designs for weddings and special events. Known for her contemporary, organic style and attention to detail, Monette thrives on transforming love stories into unforgettable floral experiences. Based at The Stone Cellar, she combines her love for nature and artistry to help couples bring their dream weddings to life.
READY TO BRING YOUR FLORAL VISION TO LIFE?
Planning your wedding flowers starts with understanding your style, needs, and budget. Download our Client Questionnaire to share your vision and receive a personalized quote tailored to your big day.
