Buying From a Florist

GIFTS · GLOBAL

Buying From a Florist

What a florist adds, briefing one, seasonality and same-day delivery

A florist makes something rather than packing something, which is the difference between a bouquet and an arrangement.

What a florist adds

Selection on the day from what is actually good, balance of shape and scale, conditioning of the stems before they leave, and arrangement rather than assembly. That is why two bouquets at the same price look very different.

A good florist will also tell you what will last, which matters more than what looks best in the shop.

Briefing one

Give a budget, an occasion, a colour direction and anything to avoid, then let them choose the flowers. Asking for a specific variety out of season means paying for an import or being disappointed.

Mention allergies, whether there are cats in the house, and whether the recipient has a vase.

Seasonality

Seasonal British flowers cost less, travel less and last longer. Spring bulbs, summer garden flowers and autumn foliage all look better than the same imported stems in January.

Same-day delivery

Order by the cut-off, which is usually late morning, and give a phone number for the recipient. Check what happens if nobody is in — a safe place, a neighbour or a redelivery.

Hospitals frequently do not allow flowers on wards, so check before sending.

Sympathy and weddings

For funerals, check with the family and the funeral director about what is wanted. For weddings, book months ahead and expect a consultation.

Plants as an alternative

A houseplant costs about the same as a bouquet and lasts years. Check the light in the room it is going to, and remember that several common houseplants are toxic to cats and dogs.

Include care instructions, since overwatering kills more plants than neglect.

Dried and preserved

Dried flowers last months, suit someone who travels and need no water. Keep them out of direct sun and away from damp.

Sending flowers well

Give the recipient's phone number, check whether a signature is needed and ask what happens if nobody is in. Same-day orders usually need placing before late morning.

Write the card message yourself rather than leaving it blank, since that is the part that is kept.

Vase life

Recut stems at an angle, change the water every two days, and keep flowers away from fruit, radiators and direct sun.

Cost

Tell a florist the budget and let them build to it rather than specifying flowers, which almost always produces a better arrangement for the money. Delivery is usually charged separately.

Ask what is good that week, since the best value is whatever has just come in.

Caring for them

Recut the stems, change the water every two days, and keep them away from fruit and radiators.

WHERE TO BUY

Ready to shop Flower Station? Use the link below to visit the official store.

→ Shop Flower Station — official site

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