From bouquets to elaborate floral installations, flowers play a central role in setting the tone and style of your wedding.
But how much do wedding flowers cost in the Washington, DC area?
Flowers for a wedding in the DC area can cost $7,000 - $15,000 and vary based on the type of flowers, flower seasonality, the complexity of the floral design, and, believe it or not, the venue.
In this post, I’ll discuss the factors impacting the costs of flowers for weddings in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia.
But first.
How Much Do Flowers Cost?
Here is a breakdown:
- Bride’s bouquet - $250.00 and up
- Attendant bouquet - $100.00 and up
- Boutonniere - $15.00 and up
- Pocket Boutonniere - $35.00 and up
- Lapel Flowers - $35.00 and up
- Corsage - $25.00 and up
- Floral crown - $60.00 and up
- Table centerpiece small - $85.00 and up
- Table centerpiece medium - $150.00 and up
- Table centerpiece large - $300.00 and up
- Arch/Arbor with draping - $1,350.00 and up
- Arch/Arbor with floral accents – $2,600.00 and up
What Factors Play a Role In The Cost of Flowers?
Seasonality of Flowers
Flower availability changes with the seasons and will impact the cost and your selection.
In-season flowers are always fresher and more affordable, while out-of-season blooms often need to be imported, adding to the cost.
For example, peonies are beautiful but pricey if chosen outside their peak season in spring.
Opting for in-season flowers can be a significant cost-saver without sacrificing beauty.
Here’s a quick breakdown of popular flowers by season:
- Spring (March to May): For a soft, romantic look, consider peonies, tulips, ranunculus, lilacs, and sweet peas.
- Summer (June to August): Summer weddings benefit from vibrant, sun-loving blooms like dahlias, sunflowers, zinnias, and hydrangeas.
- Fall (September to November): Autumn offers warm, rich tones with flowers like chrysanthemums, dahlias, asters, and marigolds. Fall weddings can also incorporate foliage and grasses, which add texture and depth to arrangements.
- Winter (December to February): Greenery like pine and holly can also enhance arrangements, adding a wintery touch without the high cost of out-of-season flowers.
Using in-season flowers will align with the natural beauty of the time of year and help you save money, which allows you to dedicate more of your budget to statement pieces.
Type of Flowers
Different flowers come with different price tags.
Luxury flowers like peonies, orchids, garden roses, and anemones are more expensive due to their delicate nature, longer growth cycles, or high demand.
But flowers like carnations, chrysanthemums, and alstroemeria offer beautiful options at a lower price point.
Choosing a mix of high-end and budget-friendly blooms can help balance the look and cost of your arrangements.
Quantity and Type of Arrangements
The number and type of floral arrangements needed will directly affect the budget.
Standard arrangements include bouquets for the bride and bridal party, boutonnieres for groomsmen, centerpieces, and ceremony décor.
The more arrangements you need, the higher the costs, especially for large installations like arches or flower walls.
Prioritizing specific arrangements and repurposing flowers between ceremony and reception can help manage costs.
Labor, Setup, and Design Complexity
Floral design is both an art and a labor-intensive process.
Simple bouquets or centerpieces may require minimal effort, but complex designs or large installations demand more time, skill, and materials.
Hanging floral arrangements, intricate arches, or oversized centerpieces increase labor costs, especially in high-demand areas like DC, where skilled florists are essential to achieve sophisticated looks.
Venue Restrictions
The venue you choose for your wedding can significantly affect the cost of your wedding and your floral design.
Why?
Because many venues in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia have restrictions.
These restrictions can affect:
Labor Costs
- Because of the limited time to set up your floral decor, wedding florists may need to hire extra help to assemble arrangements quickly.
- If a venue requires immediate breakdown after the event, additional staff might also be needed for cleanup.
Deposits and Fees
- Certain venues may require florists to carry liability insurance or pay vendor deposits. These added costs are often passed on to the couple.
- Some venues charge additional fees for cleaning up floral debris, petals, or water spills, which may be added to your flower budget.
Setup and Breakdown Timing
- If the venue allows only a short setup window, your florists will need to pre-assemble arrangements off-site, which increases labor and transport costs.
- Limited breakdown time might result in overnight storage fees or additional charges for florists to return to breakdown the next day.
Bridal Party Size and Additional Floral Pieces
The size of the bridal party impacts flower costs as each bridesmaid requires a bouquet and each groomsman a boutonniere.
Larger bridal parties mean more arrangements and, therefore, a higher budget.
Additional floral pieces, such as corsages for parents or flower crowns for flower girls, also add to the overall cost.
Questions about flowers for your wedding?
Book a call with Monica today.
What Types of Flowers Arrangements Do You Need For Your Wedding?
Here is a breakdown of the floral arrangements you may want for your wedding, with descriptions, sample flowers, and costs for each category.
Bridal Bouquet
The bride’s bouquet is the centerpiece of her floral arrangements. It is often lush and luxurious. Classic wedding flowers like roses, peonies, and ranunculus can be used sparingly, mixed with in-season, cost-effective flowers to create a lush yet affordable bouquet.
Your florist can recommend color palettes and flower types that maintain visual impact without relying entirely on costly blooms.
For example, greenery like eucalyptus or Italian ruscus can add volume and texture, helping to create a statement bouquet within budget.
Sample Flowers: Garden roses, peonies, ranunculus, orchids, and eucalyptus, tied with satin ribbon.
Cost: $300 - $500
Bridesmaids’ Bouquets
The bridesmaids carry smaller versions of the bridal bouquet. Coordinating the bridesmaid bouquets with the bridal bouquet allows for a cohesive look across all floral elements, even when they’re more modest.
One cost-effective approach is to use more greenery or incorporate a single type of flower that echoes the bridal bouquet’s theme.
For example, if the bridal bouquet includes a variety of roses and peonies, the bridesmaid bouquets might feature just one of those blooms combined with greenery.
Simple hand-tied or single-stem bouquets are modern options that are both elegant and budget-friendly.
Sample Flowers: Spray roses, lisianthus, baby’s breath, and dusty miller with ribbon wrap.
Cost: $75 - $150 each
Groom’s Boutonniere
The groom’s boutonniere is designed to stand out slightly from the other boutonnieres.
Often, it includes one or two flowers from the bridal bouquet to create a unified look between the couple.
For a modern touch, classic blooms like roses, ranunculus, or even small succulents are popular choices for boutonnieres.
Adding small accent flowers or greenery, such as baby’s breath or eucalyptus, can give it dimension without adding much cost.
A small floral accessory is worn on the groom’s lapel.
Sample Flowers: Single white rose with a sprig of rosemary and greenery.
Cost: $20 - $40
Groomsmen’s Boutonnieres
For the groomsmen, boutonnieres are often more understated to keep costs down while contributing to the wedding’s theme.
A single bloom with greenery, or even a few small stems, can create a polished look.
Groomsmen boutonnieres might feature the same flower type as the groom’s boutonniere but in a simplified design.
For example, if the groom has a small rose with accents, the groomsmen could wear greenery with a bud or a simpler floral arrangement.
Sample Flowers: Mini spray rose or ranunculus with greenery and wax flowers.
Cost: $15 - $30 each
Corsages
Floral arrangements are worn by mothers and grandmothers on their wrists or lapels.
Sample Flowers: Mini roses, orchids, and hypericum berries tied with ribbon.
Cost: $50 - $75 each
Flower Girl Accessories
A floral crown or basket of petals for the flower girl.
Sample Flowers: Mini daisies, baby’s breath, and ribbon for a crown; fresh rose petals in a basket.
Cost: $75 - $150
Ring Bearer Boutonniere
A miniature boutonniere for the ring bearer.
Sample Flowers: Small spray rose with greenery.
Cost: $15 - $30
Ceremony Flowers
Ceremony flowers create a stunning backdrop for vows and enhance the space where guests gather to celebrate.
Ceremony Arch/Arbor
- A focal point for the ceremony, adorned with flowers and greenery.
- Sample Flowers: Roses, hydrangeas, delphiniums, and greenery in a lush design.
- Cost: $1,500 - $3,000
Aisle Decorations
Floral arrangements line the aisle chairs or pews, adding elegance to the walk down the aisle.
Sample Flowers: Small arrangements of roses, baby’s breath, and greenery tied with ribbon.
Cost: $50 - $150 each
Large Entrance Arrangements
Grand floral displays are placed at the entrance to the ceremony venue.
Sample Flowers: Hydrangeas, roses, delphiniums, and ferns in tall vases or pedestals.
Cost: $300 - $800 each
Reception Flowers
Reception flowers transform the venue into a romantic and welcoming space. These arrangements are often the most extensive part of the floral budget.
Guest Table Centerpieces
Arrangements placed on guest tables to add beauty and color.
Table centerpieces are one of the most visible floral elements at the reception, as they’re in front of guests throughout the meal and festivities.
To maximize your budget, consider mixing high and low centerpieces.
High centerpieces add drama and can create a focal point, while low centerpieces make the space feel intimate and inviting.
Using seasonal flowers and greenery is a cost-effective way to achieve a lush look for low centerpieces. Simple glass or ceramic vases filled with in-season blooms like roses, hydrangeas, and foliage can create a romantic feel without breaking the bank.
High Centerpieces:
High centerpieces can include a few premium flowers, such as orchids or peonies, mixed with greenery for height and elegance. They can cost $200 to $300 each.
Florists can also use tall, thin vases or stands, which create height without requiring as many blooms.
Centerpiece costs vary widely, but a mix of high and low arrangements generally balances style and budget.
Low Centerpieces:
Low centerpieces can also include orchids or peonies mixed with greenery, ranging from $50 to $150 each.
For a standard wedding with 10-15 tables, allocating around $1500 to centerpieces provides a well-rounded look for the reception.
Sample Flowers: Low arrangements with hydrangeas, roses, tulips, and greenery in compote vases or tall arrangements with cascading orchids.
Cost: $150 - $300 each
Sweetheart Table Flowers
A special arrangement for the bride and groom’s table.
Sample Flowers: Long floral runner with roses, greenery, candles, or a small cascading arrangement.
Cost: $300 - $750
Head Table Decor
Decorations for the long table where the wedding party sits.
Sample Flowers: Greenery garlands with inserted roses, lisianthus, and floating candles.
Cost: $500 - $1,000
Cake Flowers
Small floral accents were added to the wedding cake tiers.
Sample Flowers: Mini roses, spray orchids, and greenery.
Cost: $50 - $200
Bar or Buffet Arrangements
Floral decorations for bar or buffet tables can enhance these high-traffic areas.
Sample Flowers: Medium arrangements of hydrangeas, roses, and filler flowers in small vases.
Cost: $150 - $300 each
Estimated Total Costs
For a medium-sized wedding with 100 guests, here’s a rough breakdown:
- Personal Flowers: $1,000 - $2,000
- Ceremony Flowers: $2,000 - $4,000
- Reception Flowers: $3,000 - $6,000
- Miscellaneous Costs (Delivery, Setup, Breakdown): $500 - $1,000
Grand Total: $6,500 - $13,000
These costs can vary depending on the size of the wedding, the choice of flowers, and the labor involved. By working closely with a florist, couples can adjust their budget while still achieving a beautiful floral aesthetic.
Family Corsages
Corsages for close family members, like mothers and grandmothers, add a touch of warmth and inclusion to the wedding day.
Corsages can be pinned to clothing or worn around the wrist, depending on preference.
Wrist corsages typically involve more intricate work and may cost a bit more due to the materials and structure needed.
Similar to the boutonnieres, corsages can use flowers that complement the primary floral arrangements, like roses, lilies, or smaller seasonal blooms.
Adding greenery or filler flowers, such as baby’s breath, keeps the cost down without sacrificing beauty.
Flowers for Ceremony Decor
Some of the most memorable moments of the wedding day take place in the ceremony space, and florals play a significant role in creating a stunning and romantic setting.
Here’s how to maximize your budget for altar arrangements, aisle decor, and archway or arbor decorations.
Flowers for Altar Arrangements
Altar arrangements are a focal point for the ceremony and help frame the couple as they exchange vows.
To achieve impact without overspending, consider a pair of medium-sized altar arrangements rather than large, towering displays.
You can create a lush look without premium prices by mixing seasonal flowers, greenery, and perhaps one or two statement blooms.
You can also work with your florist to repurpose these arrangements for the reception, which maximizes your budget by allowing these flowers to do double duty.
Aisle Flowers
Aisle decor is a beautiful way to set the tone for the ceremony and guide guests to their seats.
Depending on your vision, aisle flowers can be simple, understated, or lush and elaborate.
Popular options include small arrangements tied to every other chair or pew, clusters of greenery, or petals scattered along the aisle.
To save costs, consider using potted plants, which add greenery and can later be repurposed for the reception or even taken home by guests as favors.
Alternatively, smaller bunches of flowers can be attached to the chairs lining the aisle.
Flowers for Archway or Arbor Decor
If you plan to marry under an arch or arbor, floral decor can elevate this space and create a beautiful frame for your vows.
Given the budget constraints, consider partial floral coverage rather than a fully flower-covered arch.
For example, asymmetrical designs with flowers clustered on one side or at the top of the arch can provide visual interest without requiring many blooms.
Adding greenery is a cost-effective way to add volume and structure, complementing the flowers and creating a natural, garden-inspired feel.
After the ceremony, the floral pieces on the arch can also be repurposed for the reception, such as around the sweetheart table or cake display.
With strategic choices, you can create a memorable and elegant setting for your vows that complements the rest of your wedding day.
Flowers for Reception Decor
Guests will spend most of their time at the reception, making floral decor essential to setting the mood and creating a cohesive design.
With a $5000 budget, thoughtful choices for centerpieces, sweetheart table arrangements, and cake flowers can transform the space without exceeding financial limits.
Here’s how.
Sweetheart Table or Head Table Flowers
The sweetheart or head table is a focal point at the reception and is often photographed, making it a worthwhile spot for floral investment.
A beautiful arrangement on this table doesn’t need to be extravagant but should stand out from the guest tables.
Consider a modest greenery garland with a few accent blooms or a medium-sized arrangement that mirrors the color scheme and flowers of the bridal bouquet.
An elegant but simple design can create a romantic atmosphere without using up too much of the budget.
If your budget allows, add small floral accents to the couple’s chairs for a personal touch.
Sweetheart table arrangements can cost between $150 and $300, depending on the flowers and the design.
Additional Floral Accents
Small floral accents in high-traffic areas, such as the welcome sign, guest book table, or bar, can enhance the reception space.
These accents don’t require large arrangements but can be impactful. For example, small bud vases, simple greenery around the guest book table, or a welcome sign can set a welcoming tone.
If budget allows, consider a small arrangement near the bar area or lounge spaces to create a more cohesive and polished look throughout the venue.
Setting aside $100-$200 for these additional touches provides small, elegant floral accents that complete the decor.
By allocating around $2000 to $2500 of your $5000 budget to reception decor, you can create a welcoming, cohesive, and elegant atmosphere for your guests. Thoughtful planning and strategic floral choices allow you to maximize impact without overspending, ensuring that your reception space beautifully complements the rest of your wedding day.
Book a call with Monica today.
Tips
Coordinating Colors and Styles
When choosing flowers and colors for your bouquets, consider a cohesive palette that flows throughout your wedding.
For instance, a neutral palette of whites, blushes, and greens can work with most seasonal flowers, giving you more flexibility and cost savings.
If you prefer bold colors, consult with your florist about the best seasonal options that are vibrant yet affordable.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Boutonnieres and Corsages
- Choose a Cohesive Look with Simple Designs: Keep boutonnieres and corsages in line with the primary floral theme, but opt for simpler designs that require fewer flowers.
- Use Greenery and Accent Flowers: Greenery and small filler flowers add volume and detail without the expense of more prominent blooms.
- Consider Multipurpose Blooms: If there are extra flowers from bouquet arrangements, these can be used for boutonnieres and corsages.
Conclusion
While the average cost of wedding flowers in DC can range from $7000 to $15,000, using seasonal flowers, focusing on key areas of the venue, and incorporating budget-friendly techniques like repurposing arrangements and greenery can significantly impact.
With thoughtful planning, smart prioritization, and collaboration with a skilled florist, you can create a stunning floral experience on a $5000 budget.
By investing in statement pieces, repurposing flowers used in the ceremony, and choosing in-season flowers, couples can maximize their budget and create a cohesive, elegant design that reflects their style.
Remember, a beautiful wedding doesn’t require an unlimited budget; it’s about making intentional choices that bring your vision to life in a memorable way.