The Go-To Guide for Sending Flowers from a Hong Kong Florist
Flowers are a popular and thoughtful gift for special occasions in Hong Kong. Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or a celebration of achievement, flowers can convey a range of emotions such as love, congratulations, gratitude, or sympathy. In Hong Kong, gifting flowers is a common practice to express well wishes and sentiments. With a wide variety of flower shops and florists across the city, it is easy to find the perfect bouquet or arrangement to suit any occasion. From elegant roses to vibrant orchids, flowers make a meaningful and beautiful gift that is sure to be appreciated by the recipient. When choosing a florist for flower delivery in Hong Kong, consider the following factors to ensure a satisfactory experience:
Reputation: Look for florists with a good reputation for quality and timely deliveries. Check online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or family.
Range of Flowers: Choose a florist that offers a wide variety of flowers to suit different occasions and preferences. Ensure they have options for custom arrangements as well.
Delivery Options: Consider the florist's delivery options, including same-day delivery, specific time slots, and delivery fees. Opt for a florist that aligns with your delivery needs.
Customer Service: Evaluate the florist's customer service by reaching out with inquiries or concerns. A responsive and helpful florist can make the ordering process smoother.
Price: Compare prices among different florists to ensure you are getting a fair deal. Remember to consider any additional costs like delivery fees or customisation charges.
Quality of Service: Prioritise florists that guarantee the freshness and quality of their flowers. A reliable florist will ensure that the flowers remain fresh during delivery.
What flowers to send?
When it comes to selecting the perfect bouquet for a special occasion in Hong Kong, the type of flowers and arrangement style can make all the difference. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or graduation, choosing the right bouquet can convey the perfect sentiment. Here is a guide to bouquet styles and flower varieties that are ideal for different special occasions.
1. Birthday
For a birthday celebration, consider a vibrant bouquet of mixed blooms such as roses, lilies, and daisies. Bright colors like yellow, pink, and orange can add a festive touch to the occasion.
2. Anniversary
For an anniversary, a classic bouquet of red roses symbolizes love and romance. You can also opt for a mixed bouquet with a variety of flowers to represent the years of memories shared.
3. Graduation
Celebrate a graduation with a bouquet of bright sunflowers or daisies. These cheerful blooms symbolize success and new beginnings, making them the perfect choice for this milestone event.
4. Mother's Day
On Mother's Day, show your appreciation with a bouquet of her favorite flowers. Whether it's elegant orchids, fragrant lilies, or classic roses, a personalized bouquet will make her day extra special.
5. Valentine's Day
For Valentine's Day, red roses are a timeless choice to express love and affection. You can also consider a bouquet of tulips, which symbolize perfect love and eternal happiness.
6. Wedding
For a wedding, the bouquet plays a crucial role in complementing the bride's attire. Opt for a classic white bouquet of roses or a romantic arrangement of peonies and hydrangeas for a touch of elegance.
7. Baby Shower
Celebrate the arrival of a new baby with a bouquet of soft pastel flowers such as baby's breath, carnations, and hydrangeas. These delicate blooms symbolize purity and innocence, perfect for the occasion.
8. Housewarming
For a housewarming party, consider a bouquet of mixed greenery and succulents. These long-lasting plants can add a touch of nature to the new home and bring good luck to the homeowners.
9. Get Well Soon
When sending flowers to someone who is under the weather, opt for bright and cheerful blooms like daisies, sunflowers, or gerbera daisies. These flowers can help uplift their spirits and bring a smile to their face.
10. Thank You
Express your gratitude with a bouquet of elegant calla lilies or orchids. These sophisticated blooms convey appreciation and can make the recipient feel truly valued.
The key to choosing the perfect bouquet for a special occasion is to consider the recipient's preferences and the message you want to convey. With the right flower varieties and bouquet styles, you can make any occasion truly memorable.
Who to send flowers to…
So, you've decided to spread some floral love! Well, buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to dive into the wild world of gifting flowers to all sorts of folks. From your significant other to your boss, we've got you covered!
1. Girlfriend
For your lovely lady, go big or go home! Opt for an extra large bouquet of her favorite blooms, whether it's classic roses or trendy peonies. Add a handwritten love note for that extra touch of romance.
2. Wife
Your wifey deserves the best, so surprise her with a luxurious arrangement of orchids or lilies. Bonus points if you throw in a spa gift certificate for a truly pampering experience.
3. Mother
Moms are the real MVPs, so show your appreciation with a colorful mix of daisies and sunflowers. Pair it with a heartfelt card expressing your gratitude for all she does.
4. Friend
When it comes to your bestie, keep it fun and vibrant! Choose a cheerful bunch of gerbera daisies or tulips to brighten their day. Include a silly inside joke to make them smile.
5. Colleague
For a work buddy, keep it professional yet thoughtful. A simple bouquet of carnations or chrysanthemums will do the trick. Add a note wishing them success in their endeavors.
6. Boss
When gifting your boss, opt for an elegant arrangement of white lilies or hydrangeas. Keep it classy and sophisticated to show your respect and appreciation for their leadership.
7. Teacher
Teachers deserve all the love, so brighten their day with a bunch of cheerful daffodils or tulips. Include a gift card for a coffee shop to help them unwind after a long day of teaching.
8. Sibling
For your brother or sister, go for a playful mix of wildflowers or sunflowers. Add a small trinket or souvenir that reminds them of your childhood adventures together.
9. Grandparent
Grandparents will adore a classic bouquet of roses or carnations. Include a framed photo of the family to bring a smile to their face and warm their hearts.
10. Yourself
Don't forget to treat yourself, too! Buy a bouquet of your favorite flowers and display them proudly in your home. You deserve a little floral pick-me-up!
There you have it, flower aficionados! With this guide in hand, you'll be a bloomin' expert in gifting flowers to all the special people in your life. Now go forth and spread some floral joy!
Flower Bouquet Prices in Hong Kong
In Hong Kong, the price range for flower bouquets can vary depending on factors such as the type of flowers, size of the bouquet, and the florist. On average, you can expect to spend around HK$300 to HK$800 for a standard-sized bouquet of mixed flowers from a local florist.
For more premium or exotic flowers such as imported roses or orchids, prices can go up to HK$1000 or more for a larger bouquet. Additionally, the use of seasonal flowers or special arrangements can also affect the cost.
If you are looking for more budget-friendly options, consider purchasing flowers from local wet markets or flower markets where you can find fresh blooms at lower prices. Prices at these markets can start from as low as HK$50 for a small bouquet.
For custom or designer bouquets from high-end florists or for special occasions like weddings or events, prices can range from HK$1500 to HK$5000 or even more, depending on the complexity of the arrangements and the types of flowers used.
It is advisable to check with multiple florists, compare prices, and inquire about any additional charges such as delivery fees to get the best value for your money when purchasing flower bouquets in Hong Kong.
Symbolism of flowers you send
Here are popular cut flower varieties along with their unique characteristics:
Ageratum:
Botanical Name: Ageratum houstonianum
Symbolism: Ageratum, also known as the Floss flower, features fine-haired velvety blooms in shades of lavender to purple. It symbolizes longevity and carefree happiness.
Allium:
Botanical Name: Allium
Symbolism: Beyond being culinary staples (onions, shallots, and garlic), ornamental Allium varieties make excellent cut flowers. They represent unity, patience, and strength.
Aster:
Botanical Name: Astereae
Symbolism: These daisy-like perennials have star-shaped flower heads. Aster blooms in summer and fall, offering a variety of colors such as blue, purple, white, red, and pink. They symbolize love, patience, and elegance.
Bird of Paradise:
Botanical Name: Strelitzia reginae
Symbolism: The striking colors and unique shape of Bird of Paradise flowers resemble a bird in flight. They symbolize freedom, joy, and paradise.
Black-Eyed Susan:
Botanical Name: Rudbeckia hirta
Symbolism: These golden yellow beauties are commonly found in North American fields from June to October. They represent encouragement and motivation.
Blazing Stars:
Botanical Name: Liatris spicata
Symbolism: Blazing Stars have long, sturdy stems, making them excellent for arrangements. They symbolize purity, passion, and success.
Ranunculus:
Botanical Name: Ranunculus
Symbolism: Popular among florists and wedding bouquet designers, Ranunculus blooms come in various colors and symbolize charm, radiance, and attractiveness.
Carnations:
Botanical Name: Dianthus caryophyllus
Symbolism: Carnations have been used for centuries to express feelings. They symbolize love, fascination, and admiration. Red carnations convey deep love, while white ones represent purity.
Chinese Lantern:
Botanical Name: Physalis alkekengi
Symbolism: The green papery pods of Chinese Lantern turn bright orange, resembling lanterns. They symbolize good fortune, protection, and illumination.
Cosmos:
Botanical Name: Cosmos bipinnatus
Symbolism: Cosmos flowers represent harmony, love, and order. Their delicate petals come in various colors, adding a touch of elegance to arrangements.
Daffodil:
Botanical Name: Narcissus pseudonarcissus
Symbolism: Daffodils, with their sunny yellow or white trumpet-shaped blooms, symbolize rebirth, new beginnings, and hope. They often herald the arrival of spring.
Dahlia:
Botanical Name: Dahlia
Symbolism: Dahlias are diverse and come in various shapes and colors. They symbolize elegance, inner strength, and creativity. Their intricate petals make them a favorite for floral arrangements.
Gladiolus:
Botanical Name: Gladiolus
Symbolism: Known as the “sword lily,” gladiolus blooms on tall spikes. They symbolize strength of character, integrity, and sincerity. Perfect for adding height to bouquets.
Heather:
Botanical Name: Calluna vulgaris
Symbolism: Heather represents protection, good luck, and solitude. Traditionally, its flowers were used in Swedish herbal medicine.
Lace Flower:
Botanical Name: Orlaya grandiflora
Symbolism: Delicate and lacy, these white flowers symbolize purity, innocence, and grace. They add an airy touch to floral arrangements.
Larkspur:
Botanical Name: Delphinium
Symbolism: Larkspur, with its tall spikes of blue, purple, or pink flowers, symbolizes lightness, levity, and an open heart. It’s a favorite for cottage-style gardens.
Lavender:
Botanical Name: Lavandula angustifolia
Symbolism: Lavender is known for its calming fragrance. It symbolizes serenity, healing, and devotion. Its purple spikes are both beautiful and aromatic.
Large-flowered Tickseed:
Botanical Name: Coreopsis grandiflora
Symbolism: These cheerful yellow or orange blooms symbolize joy, cheerfulness, and positive energy. They thrive in sunny spots and attract pollinators.
Lily:
Botanical Name: Lilium
Symbolism: Lilies come in various types (such as Asiatic, Oriental, and Trumpet lilies). They symbolize purity, virtue, and honor. Their elegant form makes them ideal for bouquets and arrangements.
Lily of the Incas:
Botanical Name: Alstroemeria
Symbolism: Also known as Peruvian lily, these colorful blooms symbolize friendship, devotion, and prosperity. They have striped or speckled petals and last well in vases.
Lisianthus:
Botanical Name: Eustoma grandiflorum
Symbolism: Lisianthus, with its rose-like appearance, symbolizes appreciation, gratitude, and charisma. It comes in various shades, from white to deep purple.
Love in a Mist:
Botanical Name: Nigella damascena
Symbolism: Love in a Mist features delicate blue or white flowers surrounded by feathery foliage. It symbolizes mystery, enchantment, and enduring love.
Love Lies Bleeding:
Botanical Name: Amaranthus caudatus
Symbolism: The dramatic red or purple drooping flower clusters symbolize passionate love, grief, and eternal longing. They add a unique touch to arrangements.
Peony:
Botanical Name: Paeonia
Symbolism: Peonies are beloved for their lush, fragrant blooms. They symbolize new motherhood and new beginnings, making them ideal for Mother’s Day.
Cultural tips to HK flower gifting
When it comes to gifting flowers in Hong Kong, understanding local customs and traditions is essential to avoid cultural faux pas. Let’s explore some key points to keep in mind:
Avoid White Flowers: In Hong Kong, white flowers are typically associated with funerals and evoke a sense of mourning. Therefore, it is best to avoid white blooms such as lilies or chrysanthemums when sending flowers as a gift. Opt for colorful flowers that symbolize joy, happiness, and good fortune instead.
Embrace Symbolism: Flowers hold significant symbolism in Hong Kong’s culture, so it’s important to consider the meaning behind the blooms you choose. For example:
Peonies: Symbolize prosperity and honor.
Orchids: Represent refinement and fertility.
Plum Blossoms: Signify strength and resilience. Taking these symbolic meanings into account demonstrates your thoughtfulness and enhances the gesture of your gift.
Respect Traditional Beliefs: In Chinese culture, certain numbers are considered unlucky due to their pronunciation resemblance to negative words. Avoid gifting flowers in sets of four, as the number four sounds like the word for “death” in Cantonese. Additionally, bouquets consisting of six or eight flowers are appreciated, as they represent good luck and prosperity respectively.
Maintain Etiquette: When presenting flowers, it is customary to offer them with both hands as a sign of respect. Be sure to keep the gesture gentle and avoid overly boisterous presentations. Similarly, when receiving flowers, graciously accept them with both hands and express your gratitude.
Consider Timing: Timing plays an essential role in flower gifting etiquette. While it is generally acceptable to send flowers for various occasions, it is crucial to avoid sending them during inauspicious times such as Ching Ming Festival. Such gestures are considered inappropriate as they might be seen as bringing bad luck or associated with unfortunate events.
Choose Appropriate Wrapping: Presenting flowers in well-designed and luxurious wrapping shows your attention to detail and enhances the overall presentation. Avoid using wrapping paper with predominantly white or black colors, as they are associated with sorrow and mourning. Opt for bright colors, especially red, which symbolizes good luck and fortune in Chinese culture.
HK flower bouquet care tips
To keep your flower bouquet fresher in a hot and humid city like Hong Kong, follow these tips:
Trim the Stems: When you first receive the bouquet, trim around half an inch off the stems at a 45-degree angle. This helps the flowers better absorb water.
Change the Water Regularly: Change the water in the vase every two days to prevent bacteria growth. Use lukewarm water to keep the flowers hydrated.
Remove Wilting Flowers: Remove any wilting or dead flowers from the bouquet promptly. This prevents ethylene gas build-up, which can cause the other flowers to deteriorate faster.
Keep Away from Direct Sunlight: Place the bouquet in a cool spot away from direct sunlight and heat sources like radiators or electronics. Sunlight and heat can cause the flowers to wilt quickly.
Use Flower Preservatives: If you have flower food or preservatives, add it to the water as per the instructions. These additives help nourish the flowers and prolong their lifespan.
Mist the Flowers: In hot and dry conditions, lightly mist the petals of the flowers with water using a spray bottle. Avoid misting the foliage, as this can promote mould growth.
Store in the Fridge Overnight: If possible, place the bouquet in the fridge overnight to extend its freshness. Make sure there are no fruits or vegetables nearby, as they release ethylene gas.
The Evolution of Flower Gifting
The act of gifting plants has transcended time and culture, weaving its roots deep into human history. From symbolic gestures to cherished expressions of love and environmental consciousness, flowers continue to play a vital role in our lives.
Flower gifting has a rich history across various cultures, dating back centuries. In ancient Egypt, flowers were often used in religious ceremonies and as offerings to the deceased. The Greeks and Romans also embraced the practice of giving flowers for special occasions, including festivals and celebrations.
During the Victorian era in Britain, flowers became a popular form of communication, with each type of flower carrying a specific meaning or sentiment. This led to the widespread use of floral arrangements to convey emotions such as love, friendship, and sympathy.
In more recent times, flower gifting has become a common practice for various occasions, from birthdays to weddings and funerals. The floral industry has evolved to offer a wide range of options, including personalised bouquets, exotic blooms, and eco-friendly arrangements.
Today, the act of giving flowers continues to be a meaningful gesture that transcends cultural boundaries. Whether as a token of appreciation, a symbol of love, or a gesture of sympathy, flowers remain a timeless and universal gift that brightens any occasion.
Ancient Beginnings:
The practice of giving live plants as gifts can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans.
In these cultures, plants were often associated with deities, rituals, and symbolic meanings.
Olive branches, for instance, were given as symbols of peace and victory, a tradition that has persisted through the ages.
The ancient Chinese art of penjing, or miniature landscapes, also paved the way for the exchange of potted plants as expressions of harmony and tranquility.
Medieval Traditions:
During the Middle Ages, plant gifting took on new meanings.
The “Language of Flowers” emerged as a way to convey emotions and sentiments through specific plants and their symbolic meanings.
People exchanged flowers to express affection, friendship, or even secret messages.
Herbs were commonly gifted for their medicinal properties, highlighting the connection between nature and healing.
Victorian Era: A Flourishing of Botanical Sentiments:
The Victorian era brought about a heightened interest in botany and horticulture.
Elaborate conservatories and greenhouses were constructed to house exotic plants.
The act of giving live plants was seen as a way to express deep feelings and emotions that might have been difficult to convey through words alone.
20th Century: Plant Gifting in Modern Times:
The commercialization of plant gifting began in the 20th century, with florists and nurseries catering to special occasions.
Houseplants gained popularity as stylish home décor, and potted plants became a way to celebrate milestones and express sympathy.
As people became more aware of environmental issues, gifting plants also took on an eco-friendly dimension, aligning with the growing desire to connect with nature and promote sustainable practices.
21st Century: Green Gifting in the Digital Age:
In the 21st century, live plant gifting has evolved to reflect contemporary lifestyles and values.
Online platforms make it easier than ever to select and send live plants to loved ones across the globe.
These services offer ongoing connections to nature, promoting wellness and mindfulness.
Additionally, the emphasis on sustainable living has led to a surge in eco-conscious gifting, with native plants and edible gardens becoming popular choices.
This guide is provided by www.hk-florist.org
