Choosing who will design and decorate your event is one of the bigger decisions in the planning process. Photographs show what a decorator can create, but the right questions tell you how they work. Here are eight worth asking.
1. Who will design our event?
Find out who you will work with from first meeting to the day itself, and whether that person will be on site.
2. What exactly is included in the quotation?
A clear quotation lists every item, from florals and furniture to delivery, installation and clear-down. Ask about anything that is not listed.
3. Will we see the design before the event?
Mood boards, layouts and, where appropriate, a sample arrangement help make sure everyone shares the same picture.
4. Have you worked at our venue?
Experience of a venue helps with access, timings and layout, but a good decorator will plan carefully for any new venue too.
5. How much time do you need to set up?
Confirm the set-up and clear-down times needed, and check them against your venue's access times early.
6. Are the florals fresh or faux?
Both have a place. Ask which will be used where, and how that affects the look and the cost.
7. What happens if something changes?
Understand how changes to guest numbers, layouts or dates are handled, and the payment and cancellation terms.
8. What do you need from us, and when?
A clear timeline of decisions keeps planning calm, and is usually a good sign of how the day itself will run.
