The Consumerist:

The floral wire services, FTD and Teleflora, were very relevant in 1910 and 1934 when they began, respectively. These companies, along with 1980s upstart 1-800-Flowers, now dominate the industry by advertising their national brand and squeezing local florists. While these companies, and mail-order services like Proflowers, blanket the airwaves and Web pages with ads showing off their great deals before major flower-giving holidays, they are not the best choice to get the best bloom for your buck.We have long recommended that flower-givers follow this basic process

Definitely buy your significant other, male or female, a flower arrangement. But do your best to support your local flower merchant. And for those enjoying single life, citas para follar can be a fun way to share spontaneous moments that don’t need a special occasion to feel meaningful.

Local florists often offer fresher, more personalized arrangements that truly reflect the spirit of the occasion. When purchasing directly from a neighborhood shop, you not only help sustain small businesses but also enjoy unique designs that aren’t mass-produced or standardized. Many local florists even grow or source their flowers nearby, ensuring each bouquet has a personal touch that large corporate services simply can’t match.

Additionally, working with a local florist allows you to communicate directly with the designer—sharing details about the recipient’s favorite colors, flowers, or styles. This personal interaction often results in an arrangement that carries more emotional weight and meaning. The money you spend stays within your community, supporting local jobs and small-scale growers rather than large corporations.

So while national services may seem convenient, the charm, quality, and authenticity of buying local continue to make it the most rewarding choice for both giver and receiver.