By
Jim Wells on August 21st, 2008
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If you are a soldier stationed abroad, trying to find a service that will let you send flowers to your wife on her birthday or to your daughter who just graduated back home, is like trying to find which cave Osama Bin Laden is holed up at.
In fact, a U.S. army SFC, who experienced the above problem put it this way… “Prior to finding your site www.flora2000.com, I had attempted to use many other sites to send my family gifts. I was annoyed and disappointed each time when after getting almost all the way done with the order, I hit a speed bump. Mostly it was that “Worldwide Service” actually meant USA and Canada to these companies.”
The truth is that many floral delivery services are great when you live in the U.S. or Canada. But that doesn’t quite fit for soldiers working overseas. Instead, they are stuck with two bad options: 1) trying to find a local florist back home and making a international phone call to order flowers they will never see or 2) tooling around online with the big flower delivery sites like our solider.
Flora2000 was created specifically to solve these problems by offering premium flower delivery services to 150 countries. After placing an order at Flora2000.com, a consumer’s request is routed to the closest, hand-picked professional florist where the order is arranged and then hand-delivered. And best of all, your credit card is not charged until delivery has been received.
By
Jim Wells on August 13th, 2008
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After the first four days of Olympic competition, team U.S.A has already won 29 Olympic medals, including Micheal Phelp’s five gold medals on the way to a possible 8! This means that many American families and fans may want to send their Olympic heroes some congratulatory gifts.
In China, its common to send flowers to express congratulations. But if you want to celebrate Michael Phelp’s Olympic achievement, what sort of flowers are appropriate for the occasion based of Chinese customs.
While China produces some of the most beautiful flowers in the world, the biggest trend there right now is to send flowers that are harvested in Europe. Below are few other Chinese customs to consider when sending flowers to your favorite U.S. Olympians.
- Fresh flowers or fruit are commonly used gifting items in China.
- Red is the color of good luck, while pink and yellow represent happiness. Yellow and white chrysanthemums are used only for funerals.
- Always present gifts with two hands.
- Never write any congratulatory cards or notes with red ink.
- The number 8 is lucky. Never send 4 of anything as it is seen as an unlucky number.
Different flowers have different meanings in China. To celebrate the spirit of the games and to congratulate Olympic victors, we recommend “White and Pink Oriental Lilies and Roses”.
By
Jim Wells on July 15th, 2008
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Travel to Belgium in a bite. “The sights, the sounds, the smell…the taste”
Chocolates from Belgium are the food of the Gods, a lure for the romantic’s, the indulgence for the elite and the masses alike. Each beautifully sculpted Belgium chocolate is a work of art in itself. The molten core enclosed in a hard shell explodes in your mouth, filling you with a feeling of sinful satisfaction. These chocolates are the gold standard for chocolates universally.
Flora2000 now offers high end luxury Chocolate range directly shipped from Belgium to the USA. The chocolates will arrive fresh at your doorstep and will tempt you to dive in. Our master vendor at Flora2000 directly ships the chocolates from Belgium to USA.
We invite you to celebrate the tradition of the finest Belgian chocolates with our highly irresistible and exotic range.
By
RYK - Founder on April 15th, 2008
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Mother’s Day is a holiday that is celebrated all over the world. Every man has a mother, grandmother, wife, or other nurturing woman in his life who deserves recognition, love, and appreciation on this special day. There’s still no better way to show how much you care than by showering the special ladies in your life with flowers.
In fact, according to Ipsos-Insights 2005 Floral Trends Consumer Tracking Study, one-fifth of all floral purchases are made for Mother’s Day. However, when it comes to Mother’s Day floral purchases by gender, 64 percent are made by women, while only 36 percent are made by men.
Following are several common excuses why most men don’t buy flowers for Mother’s Day, along with some flower-buying advice from the experts at Flora2000.com, the leading online floral delivery specialists for overseas deliveries.
Excuse #1: I just don’t know what to get
When it comes to giving fresh flowers, mixed bouquets, roses, and carnations are the most popular choices for the Mother’s Day holiday. When buying, make certain the petals are firm and the buds have color, which are good signs that the flowers will eventually bloom. Outdoor garden plants and indoor houseplants such as geraniums, impatiens and azaleas are also great options for gift giving, because they are easy to care for while still providing wonderful color.
Excuse #2: I don’t know where to go to get flowers
Flowers are available everywhere, especially when a holiday is approaching. Bouquets can be bought at local florists, nurseries, grocery stores, farmers’ markets, roadside stands, online, and even in some convenience stores.
Excuse #3: My mother lives out of state or out of the country
Online floral delivery services were made just for this reason. Not only is it convenient to go online and click what is appealing to you, but most sites also offer searches by price, flower, occasion, etc. We at Flora2000.com not only deliver the United States but over 150 countries worldwide with premium floral arrangement deliveries.
Excuse #4: Flowers are too “cliché” to give at Mother’s Day, I want to give a unique gift
Throughout history, women have loved to receive flowers…and they still do! Flowers not only symbolize life, beauty, and love, but they also make the recipient feel special. Isn’t that the whole point of Mother’s Day?
If you are confused yet, don’t worry visit our website and chat with our flower experts online and they would be glad to assist anytime.
By
Allan Fliss on March 18th, 2008
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This year two of Mumbai’s renowned companies approached us and asked us whether we would be interested in helping them spread smiles on this Valentine’s. We said, “Thats what we do all the time” and we were in business.
Our first endeavor was to spread smiles in a leading bookstore in Mumbai “Crossword Book Store”. We distributed Flora2000 branded roses to one and all who visited Crossword on Valentine’s Day. Believe me, we had a lot of fun doing that and felt amazed and delighted as we saw each recipient smile and accept our rose gleefully. Below are some pictures.
Our second venture was to spread smiles in the one and only “Hard Rock Cafe” in India situated in Mumbai. There we distributed Flora2000 branded roses to all couples who came there on that night. It was lovely to see these beautiful couples smiling with love and joy when they received the roses. We managed to get you a picture from there as well.
We hope you enjoyed your Valentine’s as much as we did “spreading smiles”.
By
Allan Fliss on March 18th, 2008
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A wedding is one of the most important events of a person’s life. Unfortunately, the planning can be one of the most confusing. From venues to food to music to dresses, the decisions for the “perfect day” are endless.
And then comes the flowers, the major focal point of the occasion. However, picking wedding day flowers can be a source of gratification, not stress, as long as you know what to look for.
No matter what time of year you decide to tie the knot, there are beautiful flowers to pick from. In fact, due to imports and commercial growers cultivating flowers under glass, many flowers are now available much longer into each season and even throughout the year. However, it is still recommended that brides choose flowers in their normal flowering period to obtain the finest quality and most reasonable price. We at Flora2000.com, your online floral delivery specialists, suggest the following flowers for each season.
Springtime:
Tulips, Stargazer Lilies, Casablanca Lily, Daffodils, Lilacs, Anemones, Bells of Ireland, Boronia, Delphiniums, Hyacinths, Narcissi, Peonies, Ranunculi and Sweet peas.
Summer:
Lilies (Asiatic and Oriental), Tube roses, Gerbera Daisies, Sunflowers, Chrysanthemums, Irises, Alstroemerias, Bells of Ireland, English Lavenders, Freesia, Hydrangeas, Larkspurs, Matsumoto Asters, Monte Casino Asters, Queen Anne’s Laces, Snapdragons, Solidastors, Statices, Stephanotis, Stock Flowers, Yarrows and Zinnias.
Autumn:
Asters, Chrysanthemums, Dahlias, Marigolds, Statices and Zinnias.
Winter:
Stargazer Lilies, Casablanca Lilies, Tulips, Daffodils, Jasmines, Amaryllis, Anemones, Bells of Ireland, Camellias, Cosmos, Hollies, Narcissus, Poinsettias, Ranunculus, Stars of Bethlehem, Sweet Peas and Wax Flowers.
Year Round Picks:
Orchids, Calla Lilies, Roses, Lily of the Valley, Proteas, Bachelor’s Button, Carnations, Gardenias, Heather, Baby’s Breath and Delphiniums.
By
Allan Fliss on February 3rd, 2008
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Every Valentine’s Day, couples all over the world buy their sweeties something special to show how much they care. And, nothing says love and romance like flowers. But the go-to bouquet of a dozen roses may not be the best way to show your admiration. In fact, Valentine’s Day roses can be overpriced, undersized, and even unoriginal.
“Most people think that roses are the flower to send in a Valentine’s bouquet, but they really aren’t the best choice,” said Rehan yar Khan, CEO of Flora2000, the leading online floral delivery specialists for overseas deliveries. “There are many alternatives, such as red lilies and tulips that are truly beautiful and always last longer than a bouquet of roses.”
One reason that roses are not the ideal selection is that the rose crop is usually weak during the winter month of February. As such, the quality of roses during the Valentine season is not optimum because growers are trying to maximize sales and sometimes push many low quality roses into the bunches they sell. Given the exorbitant cost for roses during the holiday and their short peak time, the old Valentine stand-by may not be such a great option. Luckily, with so many other splendid flowers out there, there are no limits to the eye-catching original bouquets that can be arranged for any price point.
Khan also mentions that senders should remember that the message is in the color, not the flower. The following color chart can help suitors pick the appropriate bouquet to express themselves this Valentine’s Day.
- Red – Passion, Love, and Admiration
- Violet – Accomplishment and Admiration
- Yellow – Happiness, Enthusiasm, and Friendship
- Pink – Delicate, Grace, and Admiration
- White – Purity and Sincerity
- Orange – Satisfaction, Energy and Success
- Green – Joy and Optimism
- Blue – Tranquility and Harmony
- Lilac – Sincere Love
Keep reading this blog for more useful information on flowers and flower etiquette
By
Allan Fliss on December 5th, 2007
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Thought you’d all want to see a hot press release circulating throughout North America.
NEW YORK, NY – Want to know how to keep the thrill of receiving that beautiful bouquet last? Whether its exquisite roses, perky daisies, or lovely lilies, by following a few simple steps you can extend the life of that lush arrangement and ensure that flowers remain fresh, fragrant and vibrant for days longer.
As the holiday season approaches and more people join in the festive spirit by giving the gift of flowers, expert floral specialists at Flora2000, share some easy tips for caring for a bouquet. “Regardless of size or type of flower, quality floral arrangements can last up to a week. Caring for flowers does not require a green thumb and with minimal attention, anyone can enjoy the lasting pleasures of their thoughtful floral gift,” said Rehan yar Khan, Founder of Flora2000, the leading online floral delivery specialists for overseas deliveries.
Khan offers the following tips for getting the most out a fresh flower bouquet:
- Using a sharp knife, cut flower stems at an angle about 1 to 1.5 inches from the bottom under lukewarm water to prevent air bubbles from forming.
- Remove any leaves that fall below the level of the water, as foliage promotes bacteria and causes flowers to wilt or never open.
- Always place flowers in a clean vase with lukewarm water. Avoid metal containers which can neutralize the effects of flower food.
- Add flower food to the water.
- Keep your fresh flowers away from any ripening fruit or vegetables, or dying flowers. These items give off ethylene gas which can damage fresh flowers.
- Keep flowers away from any draughts, direct heat or sunlight.
- Throughout the week, continuously remove any flowers or leaves that are wilting.
No flower food? Flora2000 also suggests many home remedies that can be used as alternatives.
- Citric acid, such as a few drops of lime juice, acts as an acidifier.
- Add 3 drops of bleach each time the water is changed to prevent bacteria growth.
- Add ¼ cup of clear carbonated beverage to one vase of water.
- Add one capful of hydrogen peroxide every time the water is changed.
- Use one part lemon lime soda to 3 parts of water.
- Use two tablespoons lemon juice, one tablespoon sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon bleach in one vase of water.
For more useful floral tips or to view a full selection of fresh, premium floral arrangements, which can be delivered anywhere in the world, visit www.flora2000.com.
By
Allan Fliss on December 2nd, 2007
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I recently had the opportunity to accompany Rehan on a recent media blitz in New York. During his week long trip, Rehan met with top rated consumer magazines, newspapers and broadcast media to personally introduce Flora2000 to North America.
The experience was extremely rewarding. Like myself, the reporters he met with were unaware of the differences in floral companies, the florals offered and what makes Flora2000 so unique. Among the most interesting points was the fact that Flora2000 can deliver premium floral arrangements to over 150 countries worldwide same or next day.
He was able to share some of his personal “tips” on how to make floral arrangements last longer (see article posted), as well as his own recommendations for the rights florals for special occasions.
By
RYK - Founder on October 19th, 2007
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Starting when he was still a teenager, Jonathan has built the best loved florist chain in Australia. What makes him special is that he is an expert florist and deeply concerned about their customer’s feelings, doing whatever is necessary to ensure that customers are always overjoyed with his service. Given Australia’s vast size and hot climate meeting and exceeding customer expectations, especially when it come to luxury flowers, can be quite a challenge, and it takes passion and love (plus lots of computers) to get it right each time. Flora2000 is proud to work with this Master Florist for all your premium bouquets and arrangements going to Australia & New Zealand
By
RYK - Founder on September 17th, 2007
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New Online Floral Delivery Service For Overseas Floral Deliveries Makes Debut
New York, NY, September 18, 2007 – When Flora2000 launched its internet site in 1999, the company set its sights at becoming the world’s leading online floral delivery experts for overseas floral deliveries. Now, with over eight years of experience in building specialized floral teams in over 150 countries, Flora2000 has reached its target. And, Flora2000 announced it is bringing that expertise to the U.S., making its debut in the Big Apple.
“We are especially pleased to be focusing our efforts in the most diverse city of the world,” said founder Rehan yar Khan. “Serving as the world’s melting pot for hundreds of cultures, Flora2000’s overseas floral delivery services are ideal for residents of the New York City metropolitan area. Now, companies doing business abroad, or New Yorkers of all persuasions can send flowers to those friends and family members to over 150 countries quickly and easily knowing they have chosen the leading international delivery experts.”
Khan explains that since its inception Flora2000 has focused on becoming the international floral delivery expert by creating a proprietary worldwide delivery system that ensures its customers take advantage of its network of the world’s most talented florists and the planet’s freshest flowers. And, offer them at competitive prices.
“At Flora2000 we are committed to meeting and exceeding customer expectations. We recognize that competition within the floral arena has become increasingly more active, which is why we have focused our attention on the international marketplace, building the most comprehensive worldwide floral distribution network,” he said.
Ordering is easy. Log onto Flora2000.com and simply select the country which you want flowers to be delivered. “The Flora2000 website also maintains a 24/7 online customer service live chat, which ensures customers can reach a ‘live,’ knowledgeable representative to discuss any possible queries that they may have,” notes Khan.
Credit card payments are handled over a secure 128 bit encryption system supported by GeoTrust; ensuring that one besides the customer has access to the information entered. Credit cards are charged upon confirmation of delivery.
For more information visit www.flora2000.com.
By
RYK - Founder on August 5th, 2007
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If you believe that numbers have a story to tell, here are some of our numbers that speak volumes about our quality.
12.5% of all visitors on Flora2000.com buy
This is up from 11.5% a month ago and 7.5% in Jan ‘07, which was when we polled many of our regular customers and they told us to improve our product range and site navigation. Since then, we been continually focusing here and the results speak for themselves. 12.5% is amongst the highest visitor to purchase rate in ecommerce and absolutely the highest for a floral service that does not advertise itself!
45% of all our orders are from repeat customers
In 2005 only 28% of orders came from repeat customers, again showing how our good product range and our improvements to customer service have gone a long way in winning the hearts and confidence of customers.
5 times decrease in customer queries and complaints
Despite business blooming to more than double since 2005, the numbers of order related queries and complaints have come down substantially. This is due to our introduction in Feb 2007 of a great order tracking system; and tweaking the shopping cart to offer better guidance in filling up accurate addresses and phone numbers.
3000+ unique products under management
Each of the 150+ countries that Flora2000 services has its own unique catalog of flowers, bouquets and arrangements, composed entirely of local flowers and styles. To manage such a vast range, the largest of any floral company, we have had to set extremely strong processes to ensure that our catalog is accurate, appealing and upto date, all year round. Not a small task at all.
All of us here at Flora2000 love making improvements to products, website features and deliveries, because we know that our customers appreciate it and come back and reward the world by sending more and more beautiful flowers. Please do send us feedback through the feedback area in your my account (preferred because it gets classified neatly in our feedback system) or by emailing Jose at Flora2000 dot com
By
RYK - Founder on July 15th, 2007
Posted in News, Meet the Team | 1 Comment »
Since we’re Flora2000, you can imagine that a birthday in the office means lots of flowers. Here is Namita our HR manager being pampered the Flora2000 way.
By
RYK - Founder on June 21st, 2007
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The World Cut Flowers Congress is the annual gathering of the cut flower industry, held in (where else) Amsterdam. Your’s truly is a Keynote Speaker on how to use technology and processes to ensure quality and efficiency even while delivering in 150+ countries. The event is from the 8th - 10th of October and I’ll try and post a transcript of my address here.
By
RYK - Founder on April 17th, 2007
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Here are Derek & Christof (at their facility in Germany), who have been working together with Flora2000 since 2001. They deliver farm fresh flowers across Germany through courier and using a network of florists.
Germany is a top 5 delivery country for Flora2000 and much of this credit goes to these two who deliver remarkable quality, leading to extremely satisfied customers. If you have ever sent flowers to Germany through Flora2000, please give Derek & Christof a big hand.
By
RYK - Founder on February 10th, 2007
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Stepping off the fast paced corporate treadmill, Jim & Emma resigned their jobs and decided to go on a tour of the great outdoors. This turned into a life changing experience allowing them to reflect upon themselves and think about their life. Now back to full time jobs in Dubai, they have put together a website, GoSmellTheFlowers.com, and are writing a book about their experience.
Hearing them and knowing how many out there are trapped in the rat race, Flora2000, tied up with GoSmellTheFlowers.com to encourage people to send in their life changing experiences. We will give 1 year of flowers, a bouquet a month, delivered anywhere in the world, to the whomever sends in the best story by the end of 2007.
Click on the GoSmellTheFlowers.com logo below to visit the site and hear Jim & Emma’s story as well as send in yours.
By
RYK - Founder on February 10th, 2007
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As the big V approaches and customers flock us for delivering their orders, all 60+ members of Team Flora2000 attend customer service stations to ensure round the clock staffing and service. Its a great experience for all of us attending the frontlines, touching customers and being close to their expectations and issues. Many of us, especially in senior management, look forward to this week because its a great learning experience for us.
We at Flora2000 place the highest emphasis on customer stasifaction, and no better opportunity for us to prove how passionate we are about customer satisfaction than this week. We have carefully planned out every step from product placement to order delivery and customer service to ensure that everyone who places their faith in us to deliver their feelings is glowing with happiness.
By
RYK - Founder on January 30th, 2007
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Mark and Andrew are third generation flower growers and shippers working with Flora2000 for over 4 years. Their flowers are grown in the Canadian border region just next to picturesque Lake Erie and shipped direct to customers in Canada & the US. Here is a picture of them in their greenhouse with the latest crop of Gerberas. Hundreds of staff are involved in this process which includes planting, watering, pruning, harvesting, packaging and shipping. Computer systems and environmental control systems are heavily utilized ensuring only the best quality flowers meet customers. With Valentine’s Day approaching they and their team are working overtime to ensure that flowers are harvested in time, packed and dispatched in time for this extremely busy and important day. All the best guys…
By
RYK - Founder on January 23rd, 2007
Posted in News, Guides | 2 Comments »
For Valentine’s day, I did a quick comparison of our floral bouquets in the US & Canda with ProFlowers, 1800Flowers and FTD. It came as no surprsie that we offer better value than they do. Our secret, we don’t have hidden costs such as extra for vase, taxes and delivery surcharges. See for yourself:
