May 1, 2011
Olivia is a chic and savvy Wedding Architect with Oliveaire Artisan Events and Meetings. She is here to answer your wedding and event related questions. Email your questions at Olivia@oliveaire.com.
Olivia,
I love flowers but not sure of how much I should budget for it. Is there a percentage of our overall budget that I should allocate?
Pattie and Zane
There is nothing like walking into your reception room for the first time and being stunned by the beauty of flowers. Floral cost can be subject to the type of venue that you have, yes the monies you are willing to spend and the inspiration you are trying to create. You can fall in love with a 48inch tall vase with crystal sprays, orchids and calla lilies but cost of such a centerpiece can start around $200 dollars and up. You multiply that by 20 tables and you have just spent about $4000.00. Many times the venue you select can take up the majority of your budget, flowers second, photography third, entertainment fourth etc. If flowers are that important to you, you may consider trimming other aspects of your big day to make your floral dream come true.
Olivia,
The contract for our venues says we need to end at 12:30a.m., what does that mean?
Megan
Usually when a contract specifies the end time of the event, it means that the party must end at a certain time and immediately after that the guests are to exit the premises. At some venues, it may mean that we will turn off the lights at 12:30a.m. so the party should end at midnight giving enough time for guests and vendors to wrap up. You must ask your venue for clarification. Some venues may charge additional if you wish to stay beyond the stated end time. It is a good idea to have this information clarified so that you can communicate to all your vendors as well as prepare your event timeline to give yourself and guests enough time to say their “Goodbyes”.
