The quick answer: Tell your florist six things: the occasion, who it's for, colours, style, where it'll sit, and your budget. You don't need to know flower names. We'll take it from there.
Your cousin is graduating high school and your neighbour was just named curler of the year. You want to send flowers, but how do you get through the fog of ordering? Here's a simple checklist.
Quick ordering checklist
- Occasion
- Recipient: who they are and your relationship
- Colour preferences, and any flowers to avoid
- Style
- Where it will be displayed
- Budget
- Recipient's name, delivery address and phone number
- Card message
1. What's the occasion?
Tell us why you're sending flowers, especially if it's not an obvious holiday. A personal achievement, a get-well wish, an apology or a relationship milestone each call for a different feel.
2. Who is it for?
Give us a quick picture of the recipient: their age, personality and your relationship to them. Tell us what you want the flowers to say. Is it congratulations, sympathy, thank you or I love you? We'll suggest flowers that suit the message. (Not sure how to describe them? Try our [Flowers by Personality guide].)
3. What colours?
- Favourites: Do they have a favourite colour or flower? We're happy to work it in.
- Match the space: Pick colours that complement their home or office.
- One colour (monochromatic): Striking in modern designs, and soft and romantic in pastels.
- Mixed colours: Always cheerful, and a safe bet if you're stuck.
- Flowers to avoid: Let us know about any allergies, scent sensitivities or dislikes. Lilies, for example, are strongly scented and toxic to cats.
4. What style?
The same flowers can look completely different depending on how they're arranged. Words that help us picture what you want:
| Style words | Looks like |
|---|---|
| Traditional / formal | Classic, symmetrical, polished |
| Contemporary / modern | Clean lines, bold shapes |
| Garden / country | Loose, airy, just-picked |
| Bold / dramatic | Strong colour, big blooms |
| Tropical / unusual | Exotic flowers and textures |
| Seasonal | What's fresh right now |
| Ikebana / European | Minimal Japanese style, or lush hand-tied bouquets |
5. Where will it be displayed?
Size and shape depend on where the flowers will go:
- Office desk or hospital room: Tall and narrow, since surface space is tight.
- Dining or conference table: Low and wide, so people can see each other across the table.
- Entryway or reception: Larger statement pieces.
- Against a wall: Ask for one-sided.
- Middle of a room: Ask for all-around.
6. What's your budget?
Tell us your price range and we'll design the best arrangement for it. Price depends on:
- The number of stems. More flowers means a higher price.
- The flower type. Some varieties cost more than others.
- The season. In-season flowers cost less and look fresher.
- The container. Vases and baskets vary in price.
- Add-ons, like balloons, plush toys or chocolates.
- Design time.
Can I send flowers somewhere else in Canada?
Yes. We can send flowers to other cities and countries; we usually work with Callia Flowers. They're really nice people and their boxes are stunning!
FAQ
Do I need to know flower names to order?
No. Tell us the occasion, who it's for and your budget, and we'll choose.
What should I say when ordering flowers?
The occasion, who they're for, favourite colours, style, where they'll sit and your budget.
How much should I spend on flowers?
Any budget works. Tell us your number and we'll make it look great.
Can you deliver to a hospital?
Yes. Tall arrangements work best there. Check first, since some units, like ICUs, don't allow flowers.
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