They can be elegant, extravagant or exotic - but floral displays are always impressive. They're a surefire way to create a pleasing, sensual, romantic, opulent ambience. They can be used to draw attention or hide less aesthetic parts of a venue. Massed, they can create spectacular displays.

They can also be used as table decor, impressive entrance displays, centrepieces, garlands, chair decorations, corsages and buttonholes. Float them in punch or in pools, string them on leis, scatter them around a patio in urns or in pots, or use them to line a pathway. Or employ them to spectacular effect as massed blooms of a single colour or species.

Certain flowers have traditional symbology when used for celebrations such as Valentine's, Mother's and Christmas Days. And they add beauty to any party venue.

So don't just opt for your local flower supplier - look for the best floral designer in the business. You want the floral arrangements at your event to be spectacular, gorgeous and unique.

Do your homework
Before you engage a particular florist, do some research, get recommendations, talk to potential suppliers, check out their handiwork, and ask pertinent questions.

Can they deliver the blooms or arrangements you want, at the time you need them? Can they make garlands, centrepieces and corsages? Are they experienced, licensed professionals?

Floral designer checklist
To ensure that the floral displays at your event are imaginative and impressive - and that they don't wilt before the party's over - use our checklist as a guide.

¥ Get recommendations from your event manager or others in the party planning business as to the best floral designers for your style of event.
¥ If you've been to a launch, birthday bash or wedding where the flowers were spectacular, ask who did their arrangements and consult these florists, too.
¥ Ask to see photos of other parties for which they've done the floral design, and any particularly exciting or unusual floral displays they may have created. Get an idea of their range, style, colour and aesthetic sense.
¥ Check out the flowers and arrangements at their retail outlet.

This chapter continues in Party Magazine