A guide to ordering flowers online

Recommendations

• Use a trusted provider
• Get recommendations from friends and family
• Include a message
• Choose flowers the recipient likes and is not allergic to

Things to watch out for

• Will the recipient be in to collect the flowers?
• Delivery is usually added on separately, so take this into account
• Remember that the price of certain blooms can fluctuate throughout the year

Shop around

Not so long ago the number of companies providing flower delivery services was limited. However, there are now a host of providers, with everyone from Moonpig to Interflora offering fresh flower deliveries. If you shop online regularly then you will know that it is important to do our homework and compare prices between providers. It is also worth checking for discount codes and vouchers you can use to reduce the cost of your flowers.

Selecting your flowers

Most websites are designed so that you can find the best shopping deals by searching according to price or occasion. It is possible to find a nice bunch of flowers for as little as £15. One thing to remember is that the price of certain flowers can fluctuate throughout the year. For example, roses are likely to be more expensive around Valentine's Day. If you want to get value for money then choose a bunch of seasonal flowers.

Add an extra gift

Many companies now offer additional gifts to accompany your flowers, such as balloons, chocolates and teddy bears. These can usually be added at the end of your order and a great idea if you want to turn your flowers into a more substantial gift.

Delivery

If you are having flowers delivered then ideally the recipient should be available to receive them. Most providers give you the option of paying extra to ensure that your flowers are delivered within a specified time window. If you are unable to do this, then give the company instructions on what to do with the flowers if there is no one in to accept them. Can they be left with a neighbour? Or should you have them delivered to the recipient's workplace?

Message

Don't forget to include a message with your flowers. Many bouquets are sent anonymously so unless you include a greeting card the recipient will not be told who sent them.

Further sources of information

To find out more about ordering flowers online visit Interflora or M&S Flowers. You can also check out UK Net Guide's shopping page.