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Whether you are celebrating Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, an anniversary, or a birthday, or want to send congratulations, apologies, or get-well wishes, you send flowers.
When using a local florist, check for reviews and complaints on BBB.org. Ask your friends and family which businesses they have used and liked. If you can, visit the shop; you can see the flowers and choose exactly what you want.
Of course, you can also turn to your computer. With the click of a mouse, you can place your online order and have a beautiful bouquet delivered to anyone's door.
BBB provides the following tips for purchasing flowers online:
- Do your research. Go to BBB.org for BBB Business Profiles on more than 20,000 florists. Read what previous customers say, and see how the business responds to complaints. Check to see if the florist is BBB Accredited. This information may help narrow down the list of online and local florists.
- Know when to place your order. During the holidays, orders for floral arrangements increase dramatically, and prices often go up. Order early to ensure your order arrives on time.
- Look for same-day delivery or flexible delivery options. If you're sending flowers for a special occasion, confirm that the florist offers same-day delivery or the ability to specify a precise delivery time.
- Be a savvy shopper. When shopping online, take your time and read the fine print before submitting your order. Look for the return policy and be sure you understand the delivery process. Look for added fees like shipping, handling, and delivery. Review your order and verify the total before confirming your purchase. Find out how the business handles customer complaints and what recourse you will have if the floral arrangement is unsatisfactory.
- Verify freshness guarantees. Ensure the online florist offers a freshness guarantee or a replacement policy if the flowers arrive damaged or wilted.
- Pay with a credit card. Credit cards provide additional protections, and it’s easier to dispute charges. Debit, prepaid, or gift cards don’t have the same protections as credit cards.
- Know the delivery method. Some online florists have different delivery methods: same-day, international, standard, and guaranteed. Be sure you know which delivery service you are paying for and that you have allowed enough time. Some florists may offer a discount if you send your flowers to arrive a few days early since that helps them with the rush on holiday.
- Make sure the business has your contact information. When it comes to flower delivery, there are times when a driver will need additional information or directions. Ensure the florist or retailer has a callback phone number to help them reach you and ensure your loved one gets what you expect.
- Read the description. Online photos use a perfect setting and professional lighting to make the products look as attractive. Your final product may not look quite the same. Make sure you know what you're getting.
- Don't be deceived by promotions. You may encounter online promotions during especially popular times like Mother's Day or Valentine's Day. Most have terms and conditions, so check that you're getting the savings you expect.
- Track your purchases. When using a third party to deliver flowers, it's hard to tell when and if they were delivered. Sign up for confirmation emails to prove the order was placed and an alert when the order is delivered.
- Take a photo. Ask the recipient to send you a photo of the delivered arrangement so that you can compare it to the online photo or what was promised in the shop. If the product differs considerably, you may want to ask for an adjustment in the price.
For more information
Find a florist near you in the BBB directory.
BBB researched the florist industry, looking at positive and negative reviews and complaints on BBB.org.
Better Business Bureau serving Eastern Missouri and Southern Illinois contributed to this tip.