Useful Tips When Purchasing Flowers On The Internet

flower shop

Flowers top the list of the “most popular product purchased online.” Even though electronics, books, toys and wines are also purchased via the internet, it seems that reliable flower delivery has spread like wildfire. The Society of American Florists reports that the industry made roughly $20.1 billion last year and that there are about 22,751 local shops operating in the US. Even though online sellers have flourished, many of these local shops continue to do well because they pair up with the national giants to service their local markets.

There are numerous occasions to buy flowers, the most obvious being Valentine’s Day and Birthdays. However, never underestimate the power of an unexpected delivery! To really impress someone, send an arrangement to acknowledge a job promotion or to express sympathy during a difficult time. For family members, Mother’s Day, Thanksgiving and Easter are popular times too. It’s customary to send flowers gifts of to newlyweds to wish them well. Of course, there are also flower faux pas to be aware of.

For instance, it’s not customary to send flowers to Muslims following a family member’s death. In Asian culture, white blooms are given only during mournful and unhappy occasions. In the US, it’s customary to send the flowers in arrangements of one dozen, but in some European countries an even number is considered inappropriate. Also, Asians have superstitions about receiving four blooms (which signifies “death”) and many countries are superstitious about the number thirteen.

One way to select flowers is to think about what is “in season.” By creating a seasonal bouquet, you’ll ensure that the blooms are fresh, available and less expensive. Sometimes this can also make you think outside your comfort zone, dabbling in new favorites, and the recipient is sure to delight in your creativity! Of course there are varieties for all seasons, such as Roses, Baby’s Breath, Carnations, Gardenias, Lilies of the Valley, Orchids and Gladiolus. For those winter months, you can try Calla Lilies, Forget-Me-Nots, Ivies, Poinsettias, Tulips, Jasmines or Camellias. For springtime, try Violets, Tulips, Narcissuses, Lilacs, Jonquils, Apple Blossoms, Orange Blossoms, Cherry Blossoms, Irises, Hyacinths, Daffodils and Pansies. Summer blooms include Daisies, Hydrangeas, Sweet Peas, Peonies, Queen Anne’s Lace, Delphiniums and Dahlias. Then, in the fall, try Asters, Chrysanthemums, Marigolds and Gerbera Daisies, while adding some autumn leaves to spruce it up a bit.

There are many places to buy flowers. When shopping online, look for phrases like “Satisfaction Guaranteed,” “Over 15 Years in the Business,” “Secure Ordering” and “Award-Winning Service.” Industry credentials, customer testimonials and awards all ultimately lend to a company’s credibility. Sometimes your local flower shop has its own website, which can be a good bet. Otherwise, try one of the larger and more established sellers like Proflowers, FTD or 1800Flowers.