How to choose flowers for anyone

Choosing flowers gets easier once you stop trying to pick the perfect ones and start thinking about the person. Three questions do most of the work.

Who is it for?

A parent, a partner, a coworker, and a friend each call for a different level of formality. Soft pastels and white feel classic and calm. Bright mixed bouquets feel fun. A single stem or a small vase feels quiet and sincere.

What is in season?

Seasonal flowers are fresher, last longer, and usually cost less. Tulips, ranunculus, and peonies belong to spring. Dahlias and sunflowers belong to late summer and autumn. Roses are available all year, but they cost more around Valentine's Day.

How will it arrive?

Farm-direct services ship flowers in bud, so they open at the recipient's home. Local-florist services arrange and deliver on the same day. If timing matters most, choose the florist. If freshness matters most, choose the farm.

A quick colour guide

• Pink and blush: warm, affectionate, safe for almost anyone.
• White and cream: calm, elegant, and good for apologies and sympathy.
• Yellow and orange: cheerful and friendly.
• Purple: thoughtful and a little unexpected.

Ready to order?

See our guide to flower delivery services or browse flowers by occasion.