About

Since I was a little girl, I was constantly surrounded with weddings. My Mom, who acted as Florist, Baker, Dress Maker and Coordinator, was always busy with events. Whether it was for one of my sister’s weddings, my sister’s friends or just acquaintances, weddings and events were a regular part of life for me. And so it seems, from very early on my Mom was the one who instilled in me the ability to create.

I began my wedding career at an early age, assisting my Mom with florals when she needed help, and from there embarked on my own path by assisting my friends with their special wedding days. In early 2006 I began working as a full time Wedding Coordinator for the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort and Spa in Kona Hawaii, where I learned a wealth of knowledge about the intricacies of event planning. It was during this time that I became aware of my passion for the design aspect of event planning. I also discovered that as Kona and the Hawaiian Islands have become destination locations for the modern bride, so should the islands provide modern/personal designs. With this in mind, BLISS IN BLOOM was launched on January 1, 2008 in order to facilitate those who are looking for a destination wedding, with unique and personal details that make you feel at home.

FAQ

What makes Bliss in Bloom different from other wedding florists located in Kona, Hawaii?

I started Bliss in Bloom because I wanted to give Brides the option of ordering flowers for their wedding/event that were not just tropical flowers. Tropical, locally grown flowers can be less expensive than ordering in flowers from off island, but you might not be drawn to flowers that are locally grown. In fact, there are not too many flower varieties that are locally grown in Kona! Some flower selections that are grown here include the Protea, Orchids, Antheriums, Ginger, Plumeria, Bird of Paradise and Heliconia.

I like to give brides the option of ordering in Hydrangea, Roses, Peonies, Tulips, and Ranunculus etc. But keep in mind that these items have a shipping fee that will be built into your line item total.

What local flowers are not recommended to use?

Although the Plumeria is stunning and smells sweet, I don’t normally recommend using them. They work well for leis, but once they are picked from the tree, they start to wilt. The Plumeria is also related to the oleander, and as such, it is very poisonous. Caution should be used in using Plumeria blooms in leis that are given to children who might mouth them. Even chewing a petal can cause mouth irritation, and swallowing one can cause extreme illness.

The state flower, Hibiscus, is also not a very hearty flower to use. It starts to wilt as soon as it is picked. Heartier local flowers include Orchids, Protea, Antheriums, Ginger, Bird of Paradise and Heliconia.

How do I start an initial quote with Bliss in Bloom?

Please email me as much information you have collected regarding your event including the date, location, a list of the items you need and any photos, inspiration boards, budget allotted to your wedding flowers etc. If I am available, I will start an initial quote based on the photos and ideas you have provided to me. I will send you the quote for your review and we begin the process of modifying each item until it is to your liking.

If you are interested in full Coordination and need guidance and assistance with your full wedding planning, please contact me with your desired wedding date and we can begin finalizing your vendors.

What is a realistic budget to allot for my wedding flowers?

Your budget will depend on the overall look and scope of your desired wedding décor. An average you should expect to spend is about 8% to 10% percent of your overall budget on the flowers, however; keep in mind that if most of the flowers are being shipped in, the shipping cost is about 30%-35% of the price.

What is included in the contract?

The contract will include an itemized list of the items you need for your special event. It will also include a delivery, setup, and transportation fee, tax on the total as well as the Coordination fee if you have added Coordination to your event. Cancellation fees and payment information will also be listed on the contract for your review.

What is your policy regarding deposits and final payments?

There is a $500.00 non-refundable deposit due at the signing of your contract in order to hold the date. Full payment is due one month prior to your event date. Should you make further additions/modifications to your floral quote, final payment for those items will be due on the day of your event.

What forms of payment do you accept?

I accept cash, checks, PayPal or by direct credit into our bank account. All pricing includes Hawaii State Tax at 4.166%. Should you wish to pay by check; the check will need to be provided to Bliss in Bloom at least 10 days prior to your event date.

What is included in the line item price listed on my quote?

Although you will see a line item price per floral arrangement, keep in mind that the price includes the cost of the flowers, shipping, supplies and labor.

If I supply my own vases, will that bring down the cost?

If your centerpieces require vases that I don’t already own, then yes, this will help bring down your line item cost. If your centerpieces etc. require items that I already own, there is a very nominal rental fee for these that is built into the line item cost, and will be less expensive than you purchasing them yourself.

Should you provide your own items, please ensure that they are prepped (washed and clean) and packed in a safe portable container. If you are having the items shipped to Hawaii, you are welcome to have them shipped to me directly and I will hold them for you.

Can I order flowers from you and create my own centerpieces?

This is not something we provide. There can be liability in ordering the flowers and turning them over to you for your event.Bliss in Bloom handles all the florals items needed for your event.

Can I pick up my flowers to avoid the delivery fee?

This is not something that I recommend. Transporting flowers can be quite difficult and Bliss in Bloom will not be held responsible for any damage done to flowers should you transport them yourself. If you are ordering a few bouquets only, it is more feasible for you to pick them up, but make sure there is someone with you to hold them. Anything requiring set-up must be done by Bliss in Bloom.

How will the flowers be transported?

My staff and I will be transporting the flowers in a vehicle suitable for your event. Should your event require a refrigerated truck, the truck rental will be added to your contract.

I am getting married at a hotel that has a florist; can I still get a quote from Bliss in Bloom?

I work with most of the hotels on the island and am familiar with their Coordinators. Some hotels require that a quote supplied by Bliss in Bloom be submitted to the hotel coordinator first, who will them forward it on to you for your review.

Can I see a mock centerpiece/bouquet?

I can create a mock centerpiece for you if you are more comfortable seeing a photo of the desired centerpiece/bouquet you are looking for, however; you will have to pay the full cost for these items.

When is the flower arrangements actually created?

I typically create the arrangements the day prior to the event to ensure that they are fresh.

Can you preserve the bridal bouquet after the ceremony?

This is not something that I provide.

Can I choose other flowers for my wedding bouquet?

Yes. As long as I am able to get the flowers shipped in that you are requesting! Keep in mind that it will be at my discretion to substitute any flowers that don’t look like they will hold through the wedding event. For instance, if you order Peonies in your bouquet and they appear wilted, I will have them substituted for a flower that will best match the overall look you are requesting.

Do you also provide flowers for the ceremony and the wedding reception?

Yes. I can provide you with a variety of design options for your wedding ceremony and your reception. Please contact me to discuss your requirements

Where will the flowers come from?

All over the world! I work with a floral vendor out of California that helps me order in all the flowers I need for your special event. I will send them a storyboard of colors, flowers and a list of the items I require. They will shop the market for the flowers and pull each item. If an item does not look good enough to ship, my vendor will reference your event storyboard and pull the flowers that best suit your theme and color scheme.

How far in advance do I need to book my wedding flowers?

Generally six months to a year, but is never too soon to contact me. I would suggest you book your date as soon as possible to avoid any disappointment. The wedding season (from October to April) can be one of our busiest periods and although you can finalize your choice of flowers or colors later, your date should be reserved. You should start thinking about what type of flowers you would like as soon as you have chosen your dress, your bridesmaid dresses, your reception venue and the overall theme of your wedding.

Please send any photos you have of the dresses, venue etc.

Can we meet for a consultation?

Yes. Please contact me to set up an appointment, Skype or phone call.

What should I bring to the consultation?

You should bring photos or sketches of your gown, the bridesmaid dresses and fabric samples. Pictures of wedding bouquets and arrangements you like, from books or magazines, which depict the look you want your wedding event to have. The more information you provide me with, the better and more specific advice I can offer you. If you are not on island, you can email me photos of the items listed above.

Will you work within my budget?

Yes. If you let me know your budget on our initial consultation I will know what to recommend. I will take your budget into consideration from the very beginning of the planning process, so I can give you the best advice on how and where to place your flowers for maximum effect and what type of flowers will be the best value to achieve your desired look.

Do you have a minimum on floral revenue?

Yes. The minimum in floral revenue is $1,000.00

Why do flower prices vary throughout the year?

Seasons and availability influences the price of flowers.

Flowers out of season, particularly sought after type of flowers, the date of your wedding and quality and grade of the flowers determine the price you pay.

Weeks before and after special dates like Christmas, when red and white flowers are at a premium price, Valentine’s Day and Mother’s day when all flowers, especially roses, increase greatly in price can also affect the availability and price of your wedding flowers.

Do you charge an additional fee for servicing a wedding on a Holiday?

Yes. Depending on what Holiday you are looking at getting married on, there may be an added fee.