When you are shopping for flowers, there are two main places to check out: the grocery store or your local florist shop. Some people swear by florist flowers, while others find that the prices for grocery store flowers are enticing enough to make them purchase flowers there. Although there are many types of grocery stores and florists across the country, there are usually some differences in the products and services offered by the two types of retailers. Knowing the distinctions between the two will allow you to confidently shop for flower arrangements at your favorite spot.
When to Buy Grocery Store Flowers
1. When You Are Looking for a Low-Cost Option
Many shoppers are drawn to the low-cost floral designs sold at grocery stores. Some grocery stores can offer customers lower-costing bouquets because they buy many bulk flowers at once. They are also able to reduce labor costs by using unprocessed flowers to create simple designs that customers choose themselves from an open display area in the store.
2. When You Plan to Give the Flowers Right Away
Most grocery store flowers should be given to the recipient right away. They are usually stored at room temperature, rather than in a cooler, so their lifespan may be shortened depending on how long they have been in the store. Grocery store bouquets are not usually packaged with a water source, so they will work best for that event happening tonight.
3. When You Are Already Shopping at the Grocery Store
Another reason many customers purchase grocery store flowers is convenience. When you are already picking up your dinner ingredients and household supplies, it’s easy and convenient to visit the floral department to pick out fresh flowers to brighten up your table.
4. When You Know How to Shop for Fresh Flowers
When shopping for flowers at the grocery store, keep your eyes peeled for the signs of fresh or less-than-fresh flowers. Some grocery stores do not have employees solely dedicated to the floral department, so it’s up to you to determine whether or not the flowers are at your desired freshness. However, if you know what you are looking for, you can select a fresh bouquet for yourself.
When to Buy Flowers From a Florist
1. When You Are Planning a Special Event
When you need special event flowers for a baby shower, wedding, or other large gathering, you will want to enlist the help of a florist. The florist will be able to special-order flowers to your liking and will ensure that the blooms are looking their best for the big day. The florist can help you make your vision into a reality and offer advice about logistics for the big day.
2. When You Need Delivery
Whether a large basket of sympathy flowers needs to be delivered to a church memorial service or you want to surprise a friend with a beautiful birthday bouquet, a florist can ensure that fresh flowers are delivered on time and directly to the recipient. Flower delivery is especially useful when you live far away from friends and loved ones, but even a neighbor loves the excitement of an unexpected delivery of blooming plants or a fresh spring arrangement.
3. When You Want it Personalized
A florist will work with each customer to make their bouquet special. From selecting flowers to choosing a modern or traditional design, the customer is in control. But don’t let a trip to the florist overwhelm you; florists also offer a selection of the freshest ready-made bouquets that have been created and cared for by designers. Florists also know how to work within many price ranges, so “custom” doesn’t always equal “expensive.”
4. When You Want to Shop on Your Schedule
Choose delivery or pick-up service at a flower shop and you will be able to shop on your schedule and know that the recipient will receive their gift on their anniversary or birthday or for their holiday celebration. Florists also offer the option to shop for flowers online, so you can shop anytime from home (or on your phone) without having to worry about business hours.
Comparing Florists Head to Head
Price Differences Between Grocery Stores vs. Flower Shops
Basic Bouquets
- Grocery Stores: You can often find basic bouquets priced between $5 and $20. These prices are influenced by several factors, including flower type, seasonal availability, and any ongoing store promotions.
- Flower Shops: Alternatively, flower shops typically price similar bouquets higher, reflecting their curated selections and specialized service. Expect to pay more due to the higher quality and attention to detail.
Roses
- Grocery Stores: A dozen roses at a grocery store generally costs between $10 and $15. This price includes the convenience and accessibility that grocery chains provide.
- Flower Shops: In contrast, flower shops may charge anywhere from $30 to $50 for a dozen roses, but this higher price point reflects the premium quality and high level of customer service you receive.
What Variety of Flowers Can You Find at Grocery Stores Versus Flower Shops?
Grocery stores might catch your eye with their basic floral offerings, usually concentrating on popular blooms that align with the current season. This includes common favorites like roses, tulips, and lilies.
However, if you're seeking something unique, flower shops are the go-to destination. These specialty stores boast an extensive selection that often includes rare and exotic varieties. The wide assortment is due to their access to specialized sourcing channels that allow them to present a diverse array of blossoms not typically found at grocery stores.
Special Offers on Flowers: Grocery Stores vs. Flower Shops
Grocery stores are popular spots for purchasing flowers due to their regularly updated promotions, like weekly specials and buy-one-get-one-free deals. However, flower shops also offer special deals in the form of seasonal offers and discounts on bulk or subscription purchases.
Seasonal Availability in Flower Purchases
In flower shops, you're likely to find a much better variety of blooms, especially during their peak seasons. These are times when the freshest and most exotic flowers hit the shelves, offering both traditional favorites and lesser-known species. In contrast, grocery stores often focus on popular flowers and limited-time promotions, which may offer less variety but are curated for convenience.
For special occasions like Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day, the availability amplifies as demand spikes. Both types of shops ramp up their inventory, but the extensive selections at flower shops can offer more specialized options compared to the broader, yet sometimes limited, assortments in grocery stores.
The differences in off-season flower selections can be even more pronounced. During off seasons, grocery stores often struggle with a reduced range of flowers. This limited selection can be attributed to supply chain challenges and the need to source flowers from distant regions: They typically focus on providing basic flower types that are less sensitive to transport issues, such as carnations and daisies. But florists tend to have access to a broader and more exotic selection. They often have established relationships with specialized suppliers, allowing them to offer unique blooms despite seasonal constraints.
Flower Freshness: Grocery Stores vs. Flower Shops
Understanding the differences in freshness between grocery store flowers and those from specialized flower shops can guide your decision. Here's what to consider:
- Supply Chain: Flower shops typically source directly from growers, which means flowers spend less time in transit. This direct supply chain is a key reason why they offer fresher flowers.
- Storage Conditions: Specialized flower shops maintain ideal storage conditions, controlling temperature and hydration to extend the life of their blooms. Grocery stores may not always have such specialized environments.
- Expert Handling: Florists at flower shops are trained professionals who handle flowers with care, ensuring minimal damage and maximum freshness. In contrast, grocery stores may lack dedicated floral staff, which can affect the handling and, consequently, the freshness of the flowers.
Now that you know the differences between flowers from the grocery store and those from a flower shop, you can choose where to buy your next arrangements. And if you’ve never shopped at a florist, give it a try and you may be surprised at what you find! Flower shops like Kremp Florist have made flowers the central part of their business and aim to please each customer that walks through their doors.
This article was published by Chad Kremp.
