Question 1

How do I order a fresh bouquet or gift?

Accepted Answer

In the order online (javascript:void(0))section you will find the “Bouquet of the Week” which is available to order as soon as the next day (if ordered before 12pm Monday to Friday). The colours and flowers change every week and you can choose between three different sizes. This is currently available with local delivery or collection only.
For custom orders at least one week notice is needed to allow for ordering of the fresh materials, choose between a gift wrapped bouquet or floral arrangement made to order in colours of your choice, to suit any budget. For custom orders please get in touch via email at garlandblooms@gmail.com, social media using the links at the bottom or the page or fill in the contact (javascript:void(0))form.

Question 2

How do I care for my fresh flowers?

Accepted Answer

When you receive your fresh flowers they will also contain a packet of flower food and a flower care card with the following instructions:
 • Fill a clean vase with tepid water and add flower food following the packet instructions
 • If your bouquet is in an aquapack, hold the bouquet over the sink and snip the base of the cellophane to release the water
 • Remove all gift wrapping (box, paper and cellophane can be recycled)
 • Cut the base of the stems to fit your chosen vase (cut at least 5cm from the base of the stem, at a 45 degree angle)
 • Remove any foliage that will sit below the water level
 • place in a cool area, away from radiators, direct sunlight and draughts (the cooler the room, the longer your flowers will last)
 • change the water at least twice a week & remove any faded blooms

Question 3

How long will my fresh flowers last?

Accepted Answer

Every flower has a slightly different vase life but if properly cared for your bouquet should last on average around one week.
The vase life of your flowers is dependant on a lot of factors; placing them in a cool, draught free area, away from direct sunlight, regularly changing the water in the vase, recutting the base of the stems and using flower food will all help to prolong the life of your bouquet.

Question 4

How do I order dried flowers?

Accepted Answer

Click here (javascript:void(0))to see the full dried flower collection. Dried flowers are available for local delivery, collection or can be sent nationwide via First Class Royal Mail.
Please see the delivery (javascript:void(0))page for local delivery areas and pricing.

Question 5

How do I care for my dried flowers?

Accepted Answer

Your dried flowers will arrive wrapped in kraft paper with an attached dried flower care card with the following instructions:
 • Remove all gift wrapping, keep twine string tied if preferred
 • Handle carefully - dried flowers can be fragile, select a location where they don't need to be moved often
 • Cut the base of the stems to fit your chosen vase
 • Place in a vase with no water
 • After delivery it may take a few hours for your bouquet to fluff up
 • Place in a room temperature, dry area, away from direct sunlight (moisture may cause your flowers to wilt and become mouldy & direct sunlight may cause flowers to fade)
 • Check the stems occasionally to check for moisture, if they do appear moist, consider a different location or different style vase

Question 6

How long will my dried flowers last?

Accepted Answer

Unlike fresh flowers, dried flowers are designed to last for a very long time. If cared for correctly, dried flowers should last between 1-3 years.

Question 7

How much will my wedding flowers cost?

Accepted Answer

Garland Blooms offers a completely bespoke service based on the couple’s individual needs and therefore it is very difficult to give average prices, as no two weddings are the same. The cost will vary widely based on the quantity of flowers needed, the type of flowers and the time of year.
Please see the wedding journey (javascript:void(0))for more information on how to get a quote.

Question 8

Is there a charge for a wedding consultation?

Accepted Answer

No, this is a complimentary service with no associated fee.

Question 9

Why do we need a consultation?

Accepted Answer

The consultation will involve meeting either at my home workshop or a coffee shop to discuss your ideas. Don’t worry if you are unsure or just starting out, I am more than happy to brainstorm with you.
It is a good idea to have this information handy if possible:
 • Wedding date, venue and time
 • Wedding party numbers (number of groomsmen, bridesmaids, rough idea of number of centrepieces)
 • Colour scheme of wedding

Question 10

What will happen from there?

Accepted Answer

A bespoke quote will be made and sent via email with the details of your wedding flowers and a breakdown of prices, this will also include a mood board with some similar styles and flowers I intend to use. Please note, it usually takes around two weeks for your quote to be created, this may take longer during peak times.

Question 11

Is there a booking fee?

Accepted Answer

A deposit of 25% of the total fee will be needed to secure the date, the balance is then due four weeks before the final event date.

Question 12

Is there a charge for delivery and set up?

Accepted Answer

Delivery and set up is a set charge of £15 for all areas within a 20 mile radius of Colchester, I am happy to supply flowers to customers outside of this radius but separate delivery charges may apply.

Question 13

How do I book flowers for a funeral?

Accepted Answer

Get in touch via email at garlandblooms@gmail.com or click the link below to fill in the contact form, please include as much detail as possible including date, time and funeral address so that I can check my availability (if you do not have these details yet it’s not a problem). We can arrange to talk through the flowers needed and what will be best for your loved one and I will complete a quote for you.

Question 14

What information is needed to order funeral flowers?

Accepted Answer

To arrange the booking I will need to know the following:
 • Funeral date and time
 • Full name of the deceased
 • Name of the funeral director
 • Address of the funeral director
 • Flowers required (do not worry if you are unsure on what you’d like, we can talk through it)
 • Delivery address (usually delivery would be directly to the funeral director but if you would prefer them to be delivered to your home or an alternative arrangement please specify)

Question 15

Is there a booking fee?

Accepted Answer

A deposit of 25% of the total fee will be needed to secure the date, the balance is then due one week before funeral.

FAQ

Garland Blooms

est 2019