The average cost of floral arrangements?

I'm now going to research all of my options (other florists & DIYing it). Initially I was sold on my co-worker b/c I had already seen her work (she did my prom corsage years ago before I even knew her), and more importantly b/c I assumed she would charge a much more reasonable rate.

Justine- I see where you're coming from, but I still can't see paying $500 for labor. Especially considering I'll have to spend an additional $200 or more on supplies.

I know hobby has floral on sale this weekend for 50% off. I'm going to go do some research. I haven't completely given up on my co-worker; I just haven't had a chance to speak with her since she gave me the quote.

Ok, I just looked over my quote, the ceremony flowers will include:

Bridal (includes orchids and other flowers)

4 BM (all hydrangea)

1 mother & 1 grandmother corsage (mixed)

1 father (fern head & leaves)

1 groom (?, fern head & leaves)

4 GM (stock, fern head & leaves)

1 RB (stock)

3 FG petals (rose)

All real flowers for $550.

She may do good work but that doesn't mean that you want to pay her price if you can get real flowers for about the same. Some people think fake flowers are a better value because they last longer but I think you can often tell they're not real. If your plan was to go fake to save money...either find someone who will do it for less or start talking to florists!

Carmiel - if you decide to go the DIY route - let me know if you need any help.

That sounds crazy expensive for just labor. We are doing all real flowers, for less then $200.

Fawn- Originally I was under the impression that silk flowers were cheaper. After shopping around this past weekend I realized they can be very pricey! I'm going to be looking at other options including contacting local florist.

Linda-Thank you! I will definitely take you up on that offer if I go the DIY route.

Preston Bailey just posted how he prices his centerpieces. He breaks down material costs as well as labor and mark-up. Although he is a lot more due to materials/design it might be helpful comparison for the labor and mark-up costs.

http://blog.prestonbailey.com/2012/06/11/price-transparency-tall-floral-centerpieces-part-ii/

Thats really high! I am getting my arrangements that are silk at thebridesbouquet.com all for 344 dollars!!!!! A florist wanted almost 600 dollars!!!!

Angelina-thanks for the link. It looks like he charges $30 an hour for labor,and billed for 5 hours to do center pieces and bridal the party. Which, would still make the quote I recieved really expensive in comparison.

Kristen-I cheked out that site and those bouquets are VERY reasonably priced. I will keep them in mind!