What should a wedding florist contract include?

A florist contract protects both you and the florist, so it needs to be specific. Begin with the wedding date, time and venue, plus a full list of every item you are ordering, such as bridal bouquet, bridesmaids' bouquets, buttonholes, table centrepieces, ceremony arch, and any aisle flowers. For each item, describe the flowers, foliage, colours and style, and include a photo or a written description if possible. The contract should state the delivery and setup time, and who will be there to receive the flowers. It should also say when the florist will collect vases or props after the event, and whether you are responsible for disposing of the flowers. Payment terms should show the deposit, the balance due date, and the cancellation policy. Include a clause about substitutions: if a specific flower is out of season or unavailable, the florist must agree on a replacement with you in advance, not just swap it. The contract should also cover what happens if the wedding is postponed or cancelled, and whether the deposit can be transferred to a new date. Finally, confirm that the florist has insurance and will handle the flowers safely, especially if any guests have allergies. Keep a copy of the contract and any email confirmations, and check that the florist's name and contact details are correct.