Custom Crystal Bouquet -- An Offbeat Option to Flowers

All Photos courtesy of Refinerii at Etsy.com

Etsy seller Refinerii offers the bride who is looking for an unusual option for flowers a custom aluminum bouquet decorated with your choice of Swarovski Austrian crystals, fresh-water or crystal pearls, glass beads, vintage rhinestones, etc. You can color coordinate your bouquet with the rest of your wedding if you want something other than just white or crystal. Not for the faint of heart but perfect for the bride who wants something just a little bit different or who wants a bouquet that lasts. Refinerii suggests repurposing your bouquet as a Christmas tree topper. Nothing like getting more bang for your buck!

But I suggest getting a different bouquet if you're planning on tossing it, this one could do some serious damage to some unlucky single girl! 

Saving Money on Your Flowers

Photo courtesy of Designs by Ahn

At a recent bridal show I talked to a bride who passed on this tip.  She bought her flowers in the Flower District in NYC.  The public aren't allowed in early enough to get the top notch blooms but you can still get great flowers if you go later in the morning.  She reported spending $200. for her flowers which included her vases and supplies to arrange her flowers and make bouquets, some rented candelabras, and a combination of roses, dahlias, irises, sunflowers and greenery/fillers.  Roses can often be purchased for under ten dollars for a bunch of 25!  So check your city and find out where the florists buy their stock. 

Another great option is to buy your flowers at a wholesale club like BJs or Costco.  Check out their web sites for prices and availability or stop in and talk to the manager in the store.  Why pay florist prices if you can cut out the charges they add for the flowers?