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Finding the right florist looms large on most brides' to-do lists. Flowers -- especially the bride's bouquet but also the bridesmaids' bouquets and wedding reception centerpieces -- are usually a big expense as well as a focal point of any wedding.

A bride needs to put a lot of thought into these floral arrangements, especially the bouquet, if for no other reason than the fact that they will make a lasting impression in all of the wedding photos.

Before you meet with a florist, be sure you have set a date for the wedding. Floral designer Elizabeth Scott of the Gingerbread House says the time of year will greatly affect price and availability of the flowers you choose. You will need to give your florist at least three to six months to plan, depending on the size of your wedding.

Try to avoid getting married during the week of Valentine's Day or Mother's Day if possible. The cost of flowers may be three times the normal cost during these times of year, and the availability of some flowers -- especially roses -- is also not as good.

Know how many people will be in your wedding party, says flordal designer Ricky Murray of Lisa Dee's. This is crucial when deciding cost.

As the bride, you should have a general idea about what you want in a bouquet, says Murray. This will be the most important arrangement of the day!

And last, but not least, Murray says it's important to know your color scheme before meeting with the florist.

Most florists will allow you to come in before a consultation to review their portfolio of arrangements. Remember that some florists charge for the consultation, but will apply the cost to your order if you choose them.

Consultations typically last for an hour.