How to order flowers online, according to a top floral designer

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We will go out on a thread here and say that almost everyone can appreciate a thoughtful bouquet of flowers — seriously, ask science. Whether you're looking for a friend, family or loved one in need of a colorful pick-me-up, the best flower delivery services make it easy to send a thoughtful gift with just a few clicks.

Although there are many more unique gift offerings on the market these days, flowers can still make an impact. “I often hear that spending money on flowers is a waste,” says Nathan Aubé, the creative director and owner of Toronto-based floral company Aubé Studios. “While it's true that the most beautiful blooms are short-lived, they leave such a lasting impression and have the ability to lift one's mood that I somehow find them priceless.”

For other occasions (or “just cause”), Aubé says you can't go wrong with orchids. “I think the best types of flowers to give as a gift – and one of my personal favorites – are orchid arrangements. Orchids come in a variety of colors, are suitable for any occasion, last for several months and instantly brighten up any space.

While flowers may seem dated, Aubé says there's a reason why a nice bouquet or arrangement delivered to someone's door is still a welcome gift. “Flowers continue to be a popular gift idea because they bring joy to people and their homes,” she says. “Through past recessions (and even during a pandemic) the flower industry has seen a bit of a downturn as flowers are a convenient way to show love, affection or appreciation.”

What are the best flower delivery services?

Here, we've rounded up some of the best ways to send flowers online, from sustainable options to fashion-inspired flowers — see our top picks below.

FTD

Count on FTD (full name: Transworld Delivery Florists) to deliver an extensive selection of recipes for various occasions, as well as gourmet sweets and thoughtful gifts to go with your colorful flowers. The popular online flower company's blooms start at $45, and same-day delivery is also available on select bouquets.

Promised Customer Feedback: “He always delivers beautiful flowers on the requested delivery day. Easy to order and reliable.” —AnxiousBee-53497

1-800Flowers.com

Do you have a stylish flower lover? 1-800Flowers.com has same day and standard shipping arrangements for birthdays, housewarmings, retirements, congratulations, anniversaries and other holidays.

If you still can't find the perfect gift, then you're sure to find something from one of the company's other gift-ready brands, including Harry & David, Wolferman's Bakery, Stock Yards, Personalization Mall and Shari's Berries. to name a few.

Promised Customer Feedback: “I sent them to my sister for her birthday and she was thrilled. He said they were very pretty and also lasted a very long time (he cuts the stems regularly).” — Margarita K.

Terrain

Those gifted with a bohemian spirit will love the rustic arrangements from Terrain (the gardening-focused sister brand of Anthropologie and Urban Outfitters), which also offers live plants, dried stems and bunches, faux flowers, vintage-inspired vases, and more. The home goods retailer is also a great source for gifts such as candles, bath and body products, gift sets, decor and other finds for shabby chic design lovers.

Promised Customer Feedback: “This Veronica Bunch waterfall arrived in a perfect box. The flowers were safe and sound. The wonderful aroma was not overwhelming – exactly. All in all, an amazing floral experience.” —GladysNYC

ProFlowers

ProFlowers is owned by online flower giant FTD, but the select consultation option means a more streamlined shopping experience for those overwhelmed by too many options. It also has a wide range of same-day flower deliveries starting at $50, so it's a great option if you're in a pinch.

Promised Customer Feedback: “Colorful roses are beautiful. This bouquet smells and looks amazing. I highly recommend and would buy again.” —PleasantWombat-43136

Urban Executives

Looking for a more modern layout with unique flourishes and a modern color palette? Urban Stems is really shaking things up — they're an online florist that partners with sustainable farms to offer an incredibly stylish collection of floral arrangements, potted plants, and gift packs with treats like Neuhaus Belgian chocolate truffles and Sugarfina candies. They deliver anywhere in the country and bouquets start at $45 (most arrangements are around $60-$80).

Promised Customer Feedback: “I received two arrangements this past month and have been blown away by the flowers. Bouquets are modern and full of flowers, not just greens. Both times the arrangements were fresh and lasted almost two weeks.” —It's Zepp

Amazon

Unsurprisingly, the world's most expensive online mall also has a notable flower section. Amazon Prime members can take advantage of free one- and two-day delivery on select items and free two-hour delivery from local Whole Foods Market locations.

Promised Customer Feedback: “Absolutely gorgeous! Long lasting blooms! The person I sent them to kept sending me pictures of how beautiful they were and how long they lasted! I was very impressed and will be ordering many times!!!” -SMALL. Plate

How long does a flower delivery take?

Whether you're a stickler for planning or a procrastinator, many of the best online flower companies offer same-day flower delivery. Note that there is usually an end time, which is usually 2 or 3 pm. on weekdays or at noon on weekends in your recipient's time zone. Please remember that there may be some delays in shipping and that some holidays fall on a Sunday, so keep this in mind if you want your delivery to arrive by a specific date or time.

If you enjoy supporting your friendly neighborhood florist, many of these online flower companies also use local florists to make their floral creations (so your money is still going to a small business).