How to be "hip" when giving flowers!

Giving flowers as gifts is a great idea. However, many floral gift givers are generally a little unsure what type of arrangement is appropriate or meaningful for a particular occasion. Your florist can guide you to be the savviest most sophisticated gift giver of all time.

Did you know that 88% of people agree that a gift of lowers changes your mood for the better? Also, did you know that 83% of people like to receive flowers when they are unexpected? And that 89% of people think people of give the gift of flowers is sophisticated. Oh…and one more little know fact, men do like to receive flowers! When giving flowers to a man, choose bold flowers like a bird of paradise or bold colours like Red or Orange. That is a sure way to get their attention.

.

Say it With Flowers

The Society of American Florists' research showed that there are five basic reasons why people send flowers: To say I'm sorry, thank you, get well, and to express congratulations or sympathy.

I agree with this and here are some suggestions about what to use flowers for.

• To say “I'm Sorry,” I suggest a nostalgic arrangement with lavenders and pinks, followed by a phone call.

• To say “Thank You,” I suggest a casual arrangement of hand-picked flowers. Use the accompanying card to express what you have difficulty saying in person.

• For “Get Well” wishes, select a variety of calming colors, such as blues, shades of green, and other serene hues.

• For “Congratulations,” “Welcome Home,” or “Great Job” messages, I suggest bold, bright, and contrasting colors.  Playful and fun-loving are the orders of the day for this occasion. In addition, you could request an appropriately whimsical container that represents the occasion.

• To express sympathy for the loss of a loved one, flowers are usually sent to the funeral home. Or, if a service isn't planned, the arrangement should be sent to the bereaved person's home. Your local florist will gladly assist you in the proper selection. For an added personal touch, they can incorporate a personal item of the loved one into the flowers. I did this when my grandpa passed, he made my son a little school desk so I used that to put a design in.

Other Occasions and Situations

Additional situations when flowers are appropriate include to the hostess of a special occasion just prior to the party, or a simple "just because" bouquet to tell someone that you care and are thinking about them. Have your florist design a European Hand Tie for the host of a dinner party. No designing is required as you just untie it and it falls into place. This lets the host bring out a favorite vase of theirs they may not have used in a while.  For floral arrangements given to a hostess, try to match the colors and type of flowers to the hostess' decor. For "just because" bouquets, try to send them in the middle of the week to add a special element of surprise.

Many people are unaware of the fact that florists are specially trained to create floral arrangements and bouquets suited to various occasions. I really suggest that you get to know your local florist. Knowing you personally will help the florist to create a flower arrangement that perfectly portrays your personality.

I always make sure to bring a bouquet of flowers to any of my friends house, even if it if for a cup of coffee. It is such a nice way to greet someone. Plus, you know they will always have you back! If you really want to be a sophisticated flower giver, bring a single flower for others attending the party. You will be the talk of the party hands down!