Over the last year, I have expanded Everlasting Arch Designs to focus more on creating truly custom wedding floral experiences. It has been such an exciting and creative journey, and one of my favorite parts of the process is working closely with brides who come to us with a vision that we can help bring to life.
Some brides know exactly what they want—from the color palette and flower varieties down to the smallest details. Others have a collection of inspiration photos and are looking for guidance on how to bring everything together. No matter where you are in the planning process, our goal is to create floral designs that feel uniquely yours while making the experience enjoyable and stress-free.
One question I frequently receive is:
"How often will we communicate throughout the planning process?"
The answer is simple: as much as you need. But if I HAD to count all my emails with each bride, it averages 25-40 emails throughout the course of the year to final execution!
Unlike larger floral companies where you may work with multiple people throughout the planning process, I personally work with each couple from the initial inquiry through wedding day setup. I want every bride to feel supported, heard, and excited throughout the journey.
Here's what you can expect when working with Everlasting Arch Designs.
Step 1: Initial Inquiry and Discovery
Most couples first reach out through our website, social media, venue referrals, or word of mouth.
During this stage, we'll discuss:
- Your wedding date
- Venue
- Guest count
- Floral needs
- Color palette
- Design style
- Budget considerations
Many brides already have Pinterest boards, mood boards, or inspiration photos to share, which helps me better understand your vision.
I make it my goal to respond to you within 24 hours!
Step 2: Proposal and Design Discussion
After our initial conversation, I create a customized proposal outlining the floral elements we discussed.
This may include:
- Ceremony arches
- Floral pillars
- Aisle flowers
- Welcome table florals
- Sweetheart table arrangements
- Centerpieces
- Cake table flowers
- Bud vases
- Bridal bouquets
- Bridesmaid bouquets
At this stage, we often exchange several emails refining the design and ensuring everything aligns with your vision.
Most couples communicate with me 3 to 6 times during this phase as we work through ideas and possibilities.
Step 3: Booking Your Date
Once you're ready to move forward, a retainer for part of the floral design is used to secure your wedding date.
After booking, you can relax knowing your date is reserved and your floral vision has a place to grow. Many of our couples book anywhere from six months to over a year in advance.
Step 4: Ongoing Planning and Inspiration
One of the things I love most about custom wedding design is watching a wedding vision evolve over time.
As you make decisions about linens, bridesmaid dresses, stationery, signage, and décor, you're always welcome to send updates and inspiration photos!!
I love helping brides think through questions like:
- Will these flowers complement my bridesmaid dresses?
- How can we tie the ceremony and reception together?
- Should we add flowers to the welcome table?
- How can we make the sweetheart table stand out?
- What floral pieces can be repurposed after the ceremony?
Some brides reach out every few months, while others communicate more frequently. Both are completely normal.
Step 5: Design Refinement and Mockups
Every January of the new year, I do a touchbase with all my brides to start refining the floral and decor elements.
2-3 months before the wedding, we finalize guest and table coutn, ceremony and reception layout, floral placement, set up logistic and whether or not we are repurposing flowers (which I would totally recommend!)
For many weddings, I create custom mockups and visual concepts to help brides better envision the final design. This stage is often highly collaborative and one of the most exciting parts of the process.
Step 6: Final Confirmation
Approximately two to four weeks before the wedding, we complete a final review of all details which includes floral inventory confirmation, delivery times, set up schedule, venue access information, coordinator contact information and any final design adjustments.
By this point, every arrangement has a purpose and every floral element has a designated location.
Step 7: Wedding Week
During wedding week, I remain available for any last-minute questions or updates. My brides and wedding coordinates all have my cellphone for quick texts or calls!
I will send out a final confirmation email that includes set up timeline and teardown.
At this point, I encourage brides to focus on enjoying the excitement of the week ahead while I handle the floral logistics.
Wedding Day: We Handle Everything (if that is what you want!)
On your wedding day, I take care of the setup, installation, styling, teardown, and pickup of all rented floral pieces. My goal is for you to walk into your venue and see your vision fully brought to life.
How Many Times Will We Communicate?
Every wedding is different, but most couples can expect:
- 1 to 2 initial inquiry emails
- 3 to 6 design and proposal discussions
- Periodic planning conversations throughout the engagement
- 2 to 4 finalization emails before the wedding
- Wedding week confirmations
In total, most couples exchange anywhere from 10 to 30+ emails throughout the planning process.
My philosophy is simple: I would rather answer one extra question than leave a bride wondering.
Wedding planning can be overwhelming at times, which is why I try to make the floral process as easy and enjoyable as possible. I love getting to know my couples, hearing their ideas, and helping them create a design that feels like them. By the time your wedding day arrives, my hope is that you feel completely confident knowing every floral detail has been thoughtfully planned.