How is your Floral Garden Studio different from a Flower Shop? I have been asked this question over and over again so I decided to write a wee bit about the differences between a private non-retail studio like Best Buds and the retail Flower Shops you are accustomed to walking into and purchasing your flowers.
Ahhhh!!! The words -'walk into' -- right there is the first major difference -- all of my hours are by appointment because each of my clients are treated to my undivided attention without interruptions -- the phone is not answered, no blackberries are buzzing and there is no 'tweeting' going on!
Private Studios also are usually dedicated to specialty services -- Best Buds does not participate with wire services, or take orders for single designs, etc. as a Retail Flower Shop would do. My services are streamlined into a specialty category -- mine are Weddings, Special Celebrations - parties, showers, anniversaries, banquets, etc. and Home & Seasonal Decor.
So let's start with Weddings -- My studio is attached to my residence. There is no commercial sign because there is no walk in traffic.
When you schedule a Bridal Consultation with me I normally spend about two hours with a client discussing what their vision is for their very special day! I always want to know what the bride's dress looks like -- a photo/website where I can view it is wonderful!!! Also, the colors of her attendants and the attire of the Groom and 'his men'! Why do I want to know this -- it is like a puzzle and all the pieces need to fit!
Like 'David Tutera' I listen to what brides want for their floral designs, look at photos, and sometimes a client will have no idea what they want. Yes, I have books just as all the other shops do but you will never see me write up a price quote and copy from one of them. At Best Buds your flowers become a work of art created just for YOU because your day should not be a carbon copy of last weeks' bride -- you need to own it!
Another difference is the quality and freshness of products. Each event's flowers are ordered in just a few days prior to the date. All material is inspected by ME and must pass my tough standards -- and believe me I won't place my name on a bruised petal!!!
I do not do packages -- why? you ask -- well the answer is simple, your event is unique and I would not want to diminish the importance of your flowers and be forced to follow the guidelines of a package -- if I want to add an extra flower here and there -- I do!!! Yes, you get so many extras from Best Buds -- just ask my former brides -- they will be happy to tell you!!!
Now the down side!!! My designer resources are limited -- it is 'Me, Myself & I' who design and create your flowers. You will see my face the day of your Wedding -- because I want to see yours too and the smile that flashes across when you finally get to See & Touch YOUR flowers!!! I do have professional assistants that help me package, deliver and set up events - each one of them is an important part of Best Buds!
I do not do rentals - they can be easily gotten from so many other sources. My focus is flowers!!!
So I hope this little introduction to Best Buds was helpful. I plan to cover the rest of my Specialty Services in future Blogs. Let me know if you have any questions -- I will be happy to listen and address your concerns for your special day!!!
Have a great weekend -- stay dry and think Spring!!!! (I did see two Robins this week!)
