Wedding flowers are one of the most important elements of your big day. Not only do they provide color and decoration, but they symbolize life, growth, and rebirth. Good wedding flowers are also a conversation starter and after the food and dress, one of things guests will remember most. The right wedding florist can help make wedding planning a breeze, while a difficult florist can make designing your wedding a total nightmare. Here's how to pick the right florist for your event.

Finding a florist

If you don't already have a favorite floral designer, talk to your friends and family about who they've used in the past. Many wedding websites have vendor listings that include photos, reviews, and general pricing information. Or browse pictures from real weddings held in the same town as your event--typically the florist information will be listed alongside the images. Make appointments to visit at least three different florists. When you visit the shop, take a look around: Do you like the arrangements that are in the store's windows? Are the flowers in the cooler fresh and bright? Is the shop clean and organized?

Every bride wants to look beautiful and unique on her wedding day. Rather than getting a dress off the rack, have you considered a vintage wedding dresses online? The classic beauty of a look that harkens back to an earlier era can transport you to a magical place. Additionally, vintage wedding dresses often feature exquisite details and workmanship for a fraction of the price that you'd pay for a comparable modern dress.

But where can you find a vintage wedding dress? And what pitfalls should you watch out for when shopping for one?