Ordering flowers might seem as simple as clicking a few buttons, but when you want something truly special, a little planning goes a long way. As the owner and Chief Creative Officer of Orchard Lane Flowers, I often get asked, "How early should I place my order?" The answer depends on the occasion, the season, and what kind of flowers you’re looking for. But one thing is certain—ordering ahead gives you more creative input, better selection, better pricing, and a much more personalized experience.
Why Ordering Early Matters
If you have a special request or want a unique flower arrangement, I recommend placing your order at least two weeks in advance. This allows us to source the specific blooms you want, ensuring that your arrangement is as fresh and beautiful as possible. For major floral holidays like Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day, I suggest ordering two to three weeks ahead to guarantee availability and avoid last-minute price increases.
Many florists, including us, are happy to create custom designs, but sourcing specialty flowers takes time. The closer you get to a busy holiday, the harder it becomes to secure exactly what you’re looking for. Last-minute orders also run the risk of substitutions, meaning you might not get the flowers you had in mind.
The Advantage of Ordering Local
When ordering flowers, choosing a local florist over big-name online retailers makes a world of difference. While large floral websites may seem convenient, they act as middlemen, charging fees that eat into your budget. These companies don’t source unique or specialty blooms—instead, they send orders to local florists with strict recipes, limiting creativity and flexibility.
By ordering directly from a local florist like Orchard Lane Flowers, you get:
- Better value– No hidden fees or middleman charges.
- Fresher flowers– Arrangements are made with flowers sourced specifically for your order.
- Custom designs – No cookie-cutter bouquets—just beautiful, handcrafted arrangements tailored to your request.
- Personalized service – We get to know you and your preferences, ensuring each arrangement is exactly what you envisioned.
How to Spot a True Local Florist
Not all "local" florists advertised online are truly local. Here’s how to tell the difference:
- Check for a physical address on their website.
- Look at their Google Business listing – Does it match the location they claim?
- Read their “About Us” page – A genuine local florist will have real details about their team and their community presence.
At Orchard Lane Flowers, we’ve been serving Columbus for over 27 years, providing unique floral designs that stand out from the standard selections offered by big-name websites.
How Far in Advance Should I Order Wedding Flowers?
Weddings require meticulous planning, and flowers are no exception. To ensure you get the perfect blooms for your big day, we recommend ordering at least 6-12 months in advance, especially if you have a specific vision or need out-of-season flowers. This allows us to source the freshest blooms, coordinate with your venue, and perfect every detail of your arrangements. If you're planning a wedding during peak floral seasons—like spring and summer—early booking is even more important to secure your dream flowers at the best price.
Get More from Your Online Flower Order
Once you've found a trusted local florist, take advantage of the perks that come with ordering directly through their website. Many local florists (including us!) offer:
- Subscription services– Set up recurring flower deliveries for yourself or loved ones.
- Exclusive promotions – Sign up for newsletters to stay in the loop on seasonal specials and upcoming events.
- Flower Workshops and events – Learn more about flowers and floral design in fun, hands-on experiences.
Sign up for our newsletter or book an appointment for wedding or event flowers
The Perfect Time to Order? Anytime!
There’s no wrong time to send flowers, and planning ahead makes the experience even better. Whether it’s a special occasion, a spontaneous gesture, or a regular floral subscription, we’re here to help.
At Orchard Lane Flowers, we take pride in creating fresh, unique arrangements that match your vision. Ordering early gives us the time to craft something truly special, ensuring that your flowers are as meaningful as the moment you’re celebrating.
Ready to order? Make your selection online or give us a call at 614.262.0880. We’d love to help you find the perfect blooms!
