Buying locally is a win-win.
- Shipped flowers come in a box, not a vase. Presentation matters!
- Boxed flower companies will take a percentage. With this knowledge, do you really want fewer flowers for what you pay?
- Flowers from a box do not last as long. We all know how important it is to hydrate. Why skip this essential step?
Though it may be convenient to buy boxed, the quality of work from a local florist is difficult to replicate.
Finding a local florist online takes 30 seconds.
There are more than 55,000 florists in the United States.
According to PetalRebuplic.com, in 2018, we had nearly 55,000 florists nationwide. Classified as a “micro” business, most florists typically employ between 1-4 people. The medium-sized shops have under 100 employees, but those are rare.
Because most florists operate with a limited staff, it is likely that your creation will be made by the owner. Florists today undergo a certification process to get where they are, and it shows! Experienced florists will make things beautiful in a matter of minutes. Meanwhile, the rest of us are buying flowers from the supermarket thinking we can produce similar results. It’s harder than it looks, folks! #epickitchenfails
The floral industry is still booming. Research shows that the plant and flower industry is estimated at fifteen billion dollars (Statista 2020). Though customers have been able to get plants shipped directly to their doors, the curation of products from florists and plant-store owners is unmatched. Inspiration and creativity are important aspects when it comes to buying both flowers and plants.
Supporting small businesses helps the community thrive
A florist’s dedication to their business is what makes them stand out in their communities. And building that customer-base is no easy feat. It takes years to develop brand awareness, finding that niche, and actually bringing customers into the store. In time, customers will appreciate the commitment of a florist to their craft and do what they can to support them. After all, buying and supporting local means that you are helping a family in your community thrive.
Behind every florist is a true passion for what they do. They are the heart and soul of most holidays, birthdays, funerals, and more. Receiving flowers is one of the most delightful acts of kindness one can experience. Knowing where your bouquets come from is special, and it creates repeat customers.
Be mindful of the message you want to convey
If a friend’s birthday is coming up and you want to give them something special, think again before ordering them a box of flowers. Those blooms will arrive just like that — in a box. Though it may be convenient, it’s not always the showstopper impression you want to give.
Typically, florists will have sample arrangements on their site, however, you can always ask for specific items or grant them creative freedom. Generally, florists will ask about what the event is for, what colors you want, and any special details to add. It’s hard to customize and know what the quality will be like when ordering boxed flowers online. Buy local!
Buying local means more product
Florists are storytellers. Walking into a floral shop, or even just picking up the phone and giving them a call, creates a human connection that can’t be replicated online. When it comes to your story, florists are readily available to create magic within their realm of design. They want to make your arrangements just right — unlike boxed flowers. Boxed flower companies will typically take unnecessary percentages and give you less product. What you see is what you get.
Ultimately, it’s up to you whether you want boxed or local. We may be biased, but local florists are always our first priority.
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