Post # 16
Member
14 posts
Newbee
Thanks everyone! I didn’t think it sounded right. I have absolutely no problem giving my budget upfront and I was not expecting a detailed quote with design mock-ups from the get-go. Just an ballpark of what they charge based on the number of pieces and types of flowers I was wanting. I have contacted a couple others in the area and they seem more than willing to give me a quote without a deposit first.
Post # 17
Member
2668 posts
Sugar bee
I have never heard of anyone let alone a florist doing this. When we met with our florist (no fee to do this), we spoke about how many bouquets/boutonnieres/etc we needed as well as chatted about table arrangements. She asked about colours and style and asked if we had any specific flowers in mind. She actually gave us a basic costing for each thing on the spot but followed this up with an official quote (with a few additional options in case we decided to add them in later). Honestly, if I was asked to pay a non-refundable deposit just for a quote, I’d be going elsewhere.
Post # 18
Member
223 posts
Helper bee
I know some florists who charge a consultation fee. She’ll sit with the client and discuss what the client wants and then puts together a proposal and a quote. The consultation fee is usually deducted from the fee if you decide to use their services.
I think it just avoids clients who come in to get advice and then gets someone else to execute the design.