For reasons of convenience, many consumers may choose a florist based on proximity or because his or her supermarket has a floral department. The more savvy or finicky floral consumer should consider several criteria when selecting a florist.
First, one should choose a florist with some professional affiliation. Professional florists who strive to be the best will belong to at least one of several wire services (FTD, Teleflora) and to other organizations such as a growers association, the local chamber of commerce, or civic groups. Affiliation with a wire service allows customers to send flowers almost anywhere and professional memberships demonstrate a commitment to the craft.
Next, one should find a florist with top quality products. Flowers should be fresh, their color should be rich and true, and plants should be healthy with green leaves. Florists that offer flowers with brown edges or wilting plants should be avoided.
Another consideration is the variety in product selection. Florists that offer cut flower arrangements as well as tropical plants and unusual flowers are generally considered to be of higher quality.
A florist's artistic expression should be evident throughout the shop. If a florist offers nothing but standard bud vases, one may want to continue looking for a florist with some flair and artistic effort in each arrangement.
Asking the right questions, being able to answer customer questions, and providing customers with personal attention are also important characteristics in a florist. A good florist will work with the customer to determine what the customer needs for the occasion.
Service is another vital part of finding a florist. A florist that offers convenient hours at an easily accessible location with a satisfaction guarantee will help meet customer needs.
The right florist may be around the corner or across town but the florist that fits his or her customers' needs will offer the service, products, designs, and advice each customer needs.