by A. South

Created on: January 08, 2010

Whether it’s a romantic holiday, a birthday, or just any day – flowers should be memorable for the right reason.  If you’re overwhelmed by the choices, and can’t decide between long-stem or an arrangement, here are some helpful tips for ordering your next bouquet. 

1) Red is so last year.
Sure, red is romantic, but it’s not creative.  She’ll love red roses, but she’ll swoon if you branch out and try a new color.  Peaches, yellows and white are always well-received. Just make sure to include a card that says “I love you” so there’s no confusion about your sentiment.

The exception: never buy flowers that aren’t a natural color.  Obviously dyed flowers, like blue daisies, or neon carnations look cheesy and cheap.  Stay away, far far away.

2) Remember, bigger isn’t better
Sending a single bloom probably isn’t the best idea, but sending an entire garden isn’t either.  Instead of quantity, go for quality. The best bouquets are simple and tasteful.  Choose a well-arranged bouquet of roses, a vase of tulips or daisies wrapped in a ribbon. 

3) Just say no to those add-ons
Want a teddy bear or a balloon on that bouquet?  Just say no.  These add-ons couldn’t be cheesier.  If you want to give her a box of chocolates in addition to the flowers, give it to her in person later on.  Flowers are too pretty to have accessories, especially accessories that are hot glued second-thoughts.

4) Hold the baby’s breath
These tiny white buds have a sweet name, but let’s call them what they are:  filler. Nothing makes your bouquet look cheaper, or inspires your lady to count the number of buds in the vase (is this really a dozen?)

5) Get your order in on time
Don’t wait until February 13 to get your order in.  Order on time to make sure your flowers are delivered on time, and you get the best selection.  And resist the temptation to get flowers that are delivered just before Valentine’s Day.  Ask yourself: will she really care that you saved a few bucks?

6) Don’t show off
There’s a temptation to show off when ordering flowers by having them delivered at her office or some other public place. There’s a good chance she’ll get embarrassed when all her co-workers come over to ooh and aah over her flowers.  Even worse? You’ve given them ammunition to complain about their forgetful, insensitive boyfriends.

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