If there will be a gap between collecting a bouquet and giving it to the recipient, tell the florist your approximate travel time and transport method when ordering or collecting it. A consumer guide from Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries advises sharing these details with the florist. Doing so makes it easier to discuss water retention and bouquet size suited to the journey.
Three details to share before collection
- About how long it will be before you give the bouquet
- Whether you will walk, take a train, or travel by car
- Whether crowds or other luggage may limit the space around it
Ask what water-retention and wrapping options the shop can provide. The appropriate approach varies with the flowers, season, and shop.
1. Protect the bouquet from hard knocks
Do not press the flowers and leaves against walls, seats, or luggage. In a crowded space, leave a little room around the bouquet and steady the wrapped stems with both hands.
2. Keep it upright
A bouquet with a water-retaining wrap may leak if turned upside down. Keep the blooms above the stems and hold the bouquet as upright as practical. Follow any handle or carrying instructions supplied by the florist.
3. Avoid heat and direct airflow
Do not leave the bouquet in a warm vehicle or direct sunlight. Also avoid placing it where heating or air-conditioning blows directly onto the flowers for an extended period. The same MAFF consumer guide advises against leaving flowers in hot places and cautions against direct airflow from air conditioners.
If you must wait longer than planned
Do not automatically remove the wrapping or add water. Ask the florist how to store the particular bouquet when you collect it. If your plans change significantly, contact the shop when practical.
Collection checklist
- You shared the travel time and transport method
- You checked whether the bouquet contains a water-retaining wrap
- You know which way to hold it
- You planned to avoid hot places and direct sunlight
- You asked how to store it until it is given
Related: What Should You Tell a Florist When Ordering Flowers? / All practical guides
