<p>I use ProFlowers, too. Recently I sent silk flowers to someone who’s having chemo and bothered by scents. I ordered an orchid from Fiori Belli (available through Amazon or directly from them). The recipient said she thought it was real at first. It’s a nice alternative.</p>
<p>One big difference between on-line and local: Arrangement. An on-line order that is shipped (rather than on-line FTD that is sent to a local florist) is shipped in box with a vase. The receiver then has to arrange the flowers in the vase. A local florist will have them in the vase already arranged. Not a big deal if you are shipping to a sweetheart where they only get a dozen roses from you. But if you are sending to someone who is receiving a lot of flowers, it is one less hassel for them.</p>
<p>Excellent point, Opera Dad. But florist-delivered flowers I have received from out-of-towners have had vases stuffed with styrofoam-like stuff to hold the flowers in place (yuck), and fillers like salal leaves or baby’s breath to enlarge the arrangement. I like ProFlowers because I prefer a simple bouquet that can be dropped into a vase; plus the prices are much better than a florist, especially with a coupon code or a “special”.</p>