When you’re planning a wedding, you receive a lot of advice. From family members and friends to websites and magazine articles, the influx of information can be overwhelming. But your wedding flowers don’t have to become a headache, especially if you give your florist plenty of time to plan bouquets and arrangements.

Your requirements and budget typically will determine how far in advance you should book your florist. If you need bouquets and boutonnieres for a large bridal party as well as elaborate arrangements and garlands for the church and reception, you should leave plenty of time for your florist to design them and order supplies.

For wedding flower budgets over $5,000, you probably need at least 12 months of lead time so your florist can make sure they have all the blooms available for your special day and enough staff to create the arrangements. For budgets of $2,500–$5,000, you usually can make plans with a florist 6–8 months in advance. Budgets under $2,500 have a bit more wiggle room, but book a flower shop about 6 months before your wedding to ensure you get the best designs and flowers.

Your flower choices also are a factor in when to book a florist. If you have your heart set on hard-to-find varieties or blooms that will be out of season, you need to give the flower shop time to arrange delivery from a grower. However, if you’re happy to use traditional wedding flowers like roses and lilies, your florist can acquire them quickly.

Floral artistry requires time, so don’t wait until the last minute to make arrangements. The earlier you set a date and submit your deposit to the flower shop, the sooner you can get to the fun part: choosing your wedding flowers! An excellent florist will help you select the best options for your vision, venue, and budget.

For the freshest and most beautiful wedding flowers in New York City, look no further than Madison Avenue Florist. This family-owned and -operated shop can make your special day even more memorable. Call (212) 319-0242 to discuss arrangements for your ceremony and reception and visit their website for more information about the shop and their flower arrangements. Like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter for tips from their designers.