FTD vs Florists

Continued from above...

Because so many florists use these networks, you'll often find the same arrangements featured on their online stores. That's where attention to customer service really makes the difference: any network florist will be at the mercy of how the store on the receiving end actually pulls the arrangement together, and sometimes the quality on that side isn't what the original florist promised. When that happens, the best flower delivery companies will take responsibility for your satisfaction - either through a refund or a redelivery, often with a different local florist if available. That's more or less "business as usual" when you're buying flowers from a traditional online florist.

However, that's not the only option for flower delivery. You can also choose to send flowers from a service that works directly with growers: the bouquets are fresh-cut and carefully packaged, kept chilled in transit, and delivered right to your recipient's doorstep. These direct-to-customer flower companies are a great solution if there aren't any florists local to the person you're sending them to - because FedEx and UPS can get just about anywhere in the US. Another plus with this type of flower delivery is the price: you'll often get twice as many blooms for what you'd get for the same money spent at a more traditional flower shop.

So, where should you buy your flowers? Your options are almost as vast as the variety of blooms themselves. It might feel a little less overwhelming if you use these criteria to guide your choice:

• Same-Day Delivery. Not every flower delivery company can get your bouquet or arrangement there today. If you need something right now, start with online florists who say they can get it done. You'll usually have to order by 11AM-2PM in your recipient's time zone in order to qualify.
• Local Florist or FedEx. Do you have a strong preference for having a local florist make your recipient's arrangement? Is the delivery going to an area where there may not be a flower shop nearby to fulfill the order? That can impact which service is the best fit for your gift.
• Service/Delivery Fees. It's rare that the price you see on a bouquet will be your final, total cost. Watch out for shipping fees, service/delivery fees, same-day delivery surcharges, and so on. If you've got a few days, a direct-from-the-farm flower delivery service could save you a lot of money, since they almost always ship for free.
• Reputation. This could be the most important factor. When there's a problem - and that's common when you're dealing with perishable, fragile flowers - does the flower shop take charge of offering a reasonable solution? If your bouquet gets there late (or not at all), are you offered a no-hassle refund or a new delivery according to your preference? The best florists will make sure you're happy, no matter what the flower shop on the other end does or doesn't do.

To help you get the best floral arrangements delivered exactly as expected, TopConsumerReviews.com has evaluated and ranked the most popular flower delivery services available today. We're sure your lucky recipient will feel a whole bunch of happiness and sunshine when they see their beautiful fresh-cut flowers!