Red roses or pink posies? Select florist with care

      My fiance, Shannon, dislikes pastels and prefers non-traditional flowers to the "cliched" rose. So, obviously, for our wedding we have ordered large quantities of roses in light shades of peach and complementary pastels. Weddings do funny things to women.

      The important thing is that we have crossed off another item on the long list of things remaining to do before the June 28 ceremony. With one of our many volunteer wedding consultants in tow -- Shannon's mother, Donna -- we visited a florist's home to talk shop.Another of our consultants -- my mother, Bertha -- had heard great things about this particular florist and her at-home business from her work with friends and acquaintances in our neighborhood. I don't know if we were committed to her from the first moment, but it didn't take long to realize that she was the first and last person we would need to consult with.

      A good recommendation goes a long way, but a few minutes at this shop took care of a lot of the florist basics. Nothing is a sure bet, but I feel confident about that part of the day at least. Why? Read on.

      Since her business is hers and not a franchise or a large shop run by lots of people, we were talking to the very person who will be doing the work. She asked questions like, "What time can I get into the (reception) building," letting me know that she would be on site, handling things. Whether you choose to go with a large shop or a home business, I highly recommend finding out and talking to the person who will ultimately be doing the work. Direct communication and accountability are a must.

      As we sat and talked she indirectly asked or answered all of the important floral questions. She had some pictures of past jobs on hand, giving us a good idea of what we might expect for our own special day. Always ask to see samples if they are not offered to you as they were to us. She even brought out some specific colors of ribbon to make sure we knew what we were asking for.

      She not only showed us pictures but looked at catalog or book pictures that Shannon brought. It is always good to be as specific as possible with your florist, and if he or she is unwilling to adopt or adapt to your ideas, it's probably a good idea to look elsewhere.