(ContentDesk) October 15, 2005 -- "In the not-too-distant past," says the owner of Nations Florist, "people ordered their floral arrangements and gifts from a neighborhood florist someone they knew and trusted. Now they often call a toll-free number or order online. They don't really know what they're getting."Although they may think they got a bargain, consumers may end up being disappointed in the quality they receive. Or worse, if they send a floral gift, they spend a lot of money to give a high-quality gift, and they never know that the recipient got something far different from what the sender intended.Alan Gurinsky has answered many questions and helped many customers in his three decades as an independent florist. Recently he put together a list of 15 tips to help consumers get the best value and receive the most benefits from the florist's creative talents when ordering from a flower and gift shop.1.
Always call a floral shop directly. Avoid using generic 800 numbers from the yellow pages. Most are merely floral telemarketers in a call center, not a floral shop. They discount the order before forwarding it to the florist. Use the Internet to find a florist closest to your delivery area.
This will give you the best value for your money, and you can also avoid relay charges. 2. Allow the florist flexibility in design so that he can be creative and use his talent.3. In deciding the cost of your order, always expect a reasonable amount to be added for delivery. If a specific delivery time is requested, expect to pay an additional surcharge.4.
For your regular floral needs in your local area, find a florist that has a good track record and develop a rapport. That florist should better understand your expectations and needs.5. Ask your local florist for an open charge account. This may protect you from credit card fraud. Also, many florists offer special sales for charge customers.The other ten tips are available at
the Nations Florist Web site at
http://www.nationsflorist.biz.
About Nations FloristNations Florist is located in San Antonio, Texas, but customers can order from anywhere in the world for delivery anywhere in the world. Phone orders are taken 8am to 6pm Central time Monday through Friday for delivery any day of the week..