As novel an idea as it is, you have to give iflorist.com credit for what can be seen as entertainment – although at a snails pace. Yes what you see below is a Flower Cam! 

But don’t stare for to long waiting for something to happen.

The iflorist retail store features a large walk-in fresh flower cooler, with their live Flower Cam. You can watch customers select from a variety of fresh flowers! To boot, two G-scale trains travel over 300′ around the store and can occasionally be seen going through the plexiglass window on the upper-right side. The Cam updates every 10 seconds during store hours.

I think iflorist.com might be on to something big here.

Something that may perhaps revolutionize the way florist do business. Just imagine how cool it would be to place an order online and to see it being prepared by a florist right in front of you on a live cam and then watch the bouquet get put right on a delivery truck. 

That’s exciting! What do you think? Would you order flowers and watch the florist prepare your order.

So how about iflorist – are you willing to go there for your customers.

It think some bold and brave florist should give it a shot and see what happens? I bet consumers looking to buy flowers online would love the idea. Pay a little extra, get a lot of transparency.

Well if anyone sees this idea born-out in the near future just know you heard it hear first. 

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Teleflora, the world’s leading flower wire service, recently announced its plans for the 10th anniversary of Teleflora’s Make Someone Smile® Week, starting from Sunday, July 18 through Saturday, July 24. Thousands of Teleflora memnber florists and community volunteers will deliver bouquets in the company’s keepsake gift Be Happy® Mug, to those most in need of a smile — such as hospital patients, senior citizens living in nursing homes and assisted living homes. In honor of the 10th anniversary, Teleflora will also award 10 lucky member units a check for $1,000 to be given to a charity of their choice.

Teleflora plans to donate more than 50,000 of their Be Happy® Mugs to its member florists, who will work with local wholesalers and growers to secure donated flowers. Local Teleflora florists will use these donations to design cheerful Be Happy® Bouquets, full of roses and daisies, and deliver them to residents in their local communities.

Since its launch 10 years ago, Make Someone Smile® Week has become the floral industry’s most successful charitable program. In 10 years, more than 22,000 florists in the U.S. and Canada have donated their time. Teleflora’s program has delivered more than 200,000 bouquets to those most in need of a smile.

It’s your choice in life to do good things for others. Good deeds are a elusive trait not particularly evident to everyone, yet we are reminded on occasions that the world is full of kind hearted souls of compassion, who strive to genuinely do  good. 

You dont’ have to sit back and waite for opportunity to do good. Often it only takes a small gesture to change someone’s outlook on life when they might feel down. It’s the little things that can make a difference, such as volunteering at a food-bank, donating to your favorite cause or sending someone a bouquet of flowers.

For more information on Teleflora’s Make Someone Smile® Week visit http://www.teleflora.com/make-someone-smile-week-flowers.asp or how you can get involved, call 310.966.8328.

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Flowers have always been a great way to celebrate special occasions. But maybe it’s time to think differently and not wait for a special occasion to send someone flowers.

This summer, as we delight in spending more time outdoors with family and friends, enjoying our summer vacations and the warm weather how about the idea of sending someone flowers as a goodwill gesture as continuation of a joyful summer. This idea is the basis for the 1-800-Flowers.com campaign ‘Summer of Smiles‘.

As the world’s leading floral & gift shop, 1-800-Flowers.com is once again launching its ‘Summer of Smiles‘ campaign, encouraging its customers across the nation to send someone they know a bright bouquet of summers flowers and gifts that will leave a smile on their face – no special occasion required.

The ‘Summer of Smiles’ campaign will have 1-800-Flowers.com team up with various celebrities and renowned personalities throughout the summer to surprise fans and deliver smiles to unsuspecting customers. 

To encourage as many people as possible to participate, 1-800-Flowers.com is hosting a ‘Summer of Smiles’ sweepstakes to reward those who know how to make someone smile. Starting July 1, 2010, customers can submit who they would like to send a smile and why and be entered for the chance to win the Happy Day Bouquet™.  No purchase necessary to enter or win.

For more information on the ‘Summer of Smiles’ sweepstakes visit www.1800flowers.com/smile.

Here a just a few of floral arrangements designed to celebrate the summer holidays:

Summer Rose Mix Bouquet– Bright orange, yellow and green colors radiate from this 18-stem bouquet that is bound to bring some extra sunshine to someone in your life

Berry Beautiful™ – A vibrant combination of carnations, roses, and daisy poms arranged in a hand-designed berry bowl is a reminder of summer fruits and the sweetness of the season

To view the full summer flower collection visit www.1800flowers.com.

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What wedding flowers will cost you for the average wedding?

The good news is that flowers are not a huge cost for the average wedding.

In a research report but together by Krystal Wynn in bridepop.com, she breaks down the True Ccost of an Average Wedding.

The report indicates how much on average is spent on everthing from the wedding flowers, photographer, dresses for brides maids, favors, etc.,  - simply the entie wedding. See chart below courtesy of bridepop.com:

The Cost of Wedding Flowers

When it comes to wedding flowers, they only make up about 5% of the total wedding on average, which is just under $1,970. This includes bridemaid bouquets, corsages, bridal bouquets, flower girl flowers and decorative pieces.

The largest amount of spent on the average wedding is on the Reception, which will account for nearly 40% of the total cost.

The wedding budget is always an important deal when it comes to planning a wedding. Couples are usually careful not to spend to much on the essentials to make the day perfect. So now you can use this report as a template to go but if you’ve ever wanted to know what costs what for the average wedding. 

The bride and her bridemaids will certainly take plenty of photos and having the right bridal boquet averaging around $169 and bridesmaid bouquets at $274 gives brides to be an idea of what expense to expect.

Most of your wedding guest will spend most the wedding day celebrating with the bride and groom at the reception, having decorative centerpieces with flowers are key to a well planed and decorated reception.

Check your wedding expenses again against this chart if your budget is around $40,000. Be carefull not to get over charged on your wedding flowers.

Did you spend to much on your wedding flowers? Does this sound about right to you?

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Do you want to send your Dad a fine floral arrangment or gift online for Father’s Day!

You don’t have to spend a fortune for Father’s Day. A simple thoughtful gift like flowers or a gift basket  can show Dad just how much you care. Here is a list of our top 5 Father’s Day flower arrangments and gift ideas we think your dad will love.

1. Take ‘Em Out to the Ball Game

If your Dad is a baseball fan and loves everything baseball check out this thoughfull keepsake baseball that celebrates America’s favorite pastime from GiftTree.com.   

This keepsake baseball constructed of a map of America’s most famous ballparks packaged in a display case with fake turf, can be a nice addition to a mantle case or office desk.

Handmade to professional standards, the baseball is a reminder of America’s famous ballparks like Fenway Park, Yankee Stadium, Shea Stadium, Wrigley Field, Dodger Stadium, and many more.

This gift can also include a mini-glove business card holder. It’s a true major league glove made from genuine leather, only miniaturized at 6 inches so as to hold business cards or any small object.  This unique Fathers Day gift Take ‘Em Out to the Ball Game is just $24.95 at GiftTree.com.

2. Golfer’s Choice Big Ceramic Snack Bowl

Is your Dad an avid golfer and loves the game of golf. Treat him to something special with the The Golfer’s Choice Big Ceramic Snack Bowl  from 1-800-flowers.com. This large ceramic golf snack bowl comes full of golfing treats.

The Golfer’s Choice Big Ceramic Snack Bowl has an embossed pattern like a golf ball. Dad can take the snacks with him on an outting, share them with golf buddies or munch on them watching a golf event.

This golf snack bowl also makes a great holder for tees and score cards or even chips when the snacks are gone. 

This unique gift is a whole in one !  The Golfer’s Choice Big Ceramic Snack Bowl  is available for just $34.99 at 1-800-flowers.com.

3. Super Dad Featuring Starbucks® Coffee

Strictly for the coffee lovers! If your Dad has an affinity for coffee, especially Starbucks coffee then this Super Dad Featuring Starbucks Coffee gift basket from Proflowers.com is sure to delight dad.

Dad can start his day with the freshly brewed aroma of different blends of Starbucks coffee. This gift basket comes packed with treats such as chocolate chip cookies, gourmet biscotti, shortbread to add a sweet touch and a signature Starbucks coffee mug to finish.

Your dad will always remember this fathers day gift when he’s pouring his morning coffee.

This Super Dad Featuring Starbucks® Coffee gift basket is available for just $29.98 at Proflowers.com and can also be upgraded for more coffee blends and treats.

4. Father’s Day Lucky Twist Bamboo

Will the Father’s Day Lucky Twist Bamboo bring dad any luck?

Well giving dad this Father’s Day Lucky Twist Bamboo from Proflowers.com will probably not do anything to improve his luck but it will provide an elegant touch to any home or office.

The Lucky Bamboo, according to Feng Shui, can represent a harmonious balance of all the five elements of nature — water, fire, earth, wood and metal.

This plant grows well in low or bright light – just add water! And bamboo plants are always good “flowers” for guys.

The Fathers Day Lucky Twist Bamboo is available from for just $29.98 from Proflowers.com.

5. Tee Time Treats

Every golfer needs a golf bag of essentials when they’re playing. This little handy carrier is just the right gift for the Dad who needs to be prepared for 18 holes.

The Tee Time Treats from iflorist.com, is a very cool reusable golf bag cooler that sports a great set of goodies any duffer will applaud. This little bag is compact allowing any golfer to easily stash extra golf balls, tees, snacks and water on the green.

It’s a clear favorite for Dads, individual gifts, and ‘trophies’ at your organization’s golf outing, fundraiser or other event. Why not give your special golfer what he needs when he’s on the course

The Tee Time Treats golf cooler is available for just $49.95 from iflorist.com.  Right now you can Save 10% off any order by using the coupon code SAVE10.

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Have a Happy Father’s Day!

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FlowerShopDeals is now a co-branded partner with FloraFlora.com. 

As a trusted partner FloraFlora.com is also giving flowershopdeals.com customers and additional 10% off of  all purchases. To save 10% on any order, shoppers can use a special coupon code “FSD” anytime.

FloraFlora.com the only online floral shop that offers free flower delivery and no hidden fees on flowers. FloraFlora offers a large selection of flowers and plants delivered fresh from the farm or direct from your local florist.

For those who prefer to order by phone you can contact FloraFlora.com Customer Service toll-free at 1-888-375-2112 and mention the code “FSD” to receive your discount.

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Mother’s Day is Sunday May 9th. 

Parenting is hard work and you can ask any mother raising kids and they will tell you being a Mom is a full-time job.  One way to celebrate the mom in your life is with a bouquet of flowers.  Here is list of online flower shops with great deals to buy Mother’s Day flowers.

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OrganicBouquet.com

Organic Bouquet has a selection of mothers day flowers & gifts starting at just $19.99. Ordering early is the key to save $10 on a Saturday delivery surcharge.

Right now you can find an assortment of organic bouquets and treats for mom. Like this 10 Stems Deluxe Assorted Hyacinth Bouquet for just $44.95.

Check there pages now for Mother’s Day Flowers & Gifts from $19.95  

Also, Win a $125 Gift Certificate! Just in time for Mother’s Day. Enter Here

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ProFlowers.com

ProFlowers.com has array of mothers day flowers starting as low as $19.99.  This bouquet starts at just $29.99  and for a few bucks more you can upgrade your vase. The Blush Pink glass vase is an additional $12.99 pictured here or you can just downgrade to the large Ginger vase which is free. 

The Two Dozen Carnations for Mom features 24 peach, yellow, and pink carnations, 4 stems of purple filler flowers and greenery.

In addition Proflowers has an offer now where you get 10% Off and a Free Glass Vase on floral products over $39.

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HonestFlorist.com

Honestflorist.com has a nice selection of unique floral bouquets for mom starting at just $29.99 with Free Express Delivery. 

The Chalk It Up Bouquet is a unique floral gift for mom starting at $36.99. This bouquet can also be upgraded with additional flowers.

The Chalk It Bouquet comes in a elegant ceramic vase that’s actually a chalkboard (with real chalk). Once Mom gets your message, she can write new ones for birthdays and other occasions.

You can also save from 15-30% off  a large selection of flowers from HonestFlorist.com.

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1-800-Flowers.com

1-800-Flowers.com has Mother’s Day flowers for as low as $19.99.  You get FREE Shipping or No Service charge when you place an order now for delivery between 5/4 – 5/6/2010 on flowers and gifts for Mothers Day.

For a great bouquet for mom you can order the More For Mom Tulips for only $29.99!.

This bouquet features 15 multicolored tulips, plus an additional 15 tulips Free, a Free pink glass vase and Free Harry London® chocolates for a limited time.

In addition to flowers you can enter into the Spot a Mom Contest to win your Mom a Funjet Vacations getaway for 4 to Hawaii.

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FloraFlora.com

FloraFlora.com offers Free Delivery and No Hidden Fees with every order. You can order Mothers Day Flowers and Save 10% off your order using coupon code FSD.

A great Mothers Day bouquet includes the Arcadia, for $49.99. The FloraFlora bouquet comes in a decorative container which  includes Gerberas, Lily, Gutton Pom, Sweet Heart Roses, and Berries.

This bouquet would make a geat mother’s day gift with a keepsake container that mom can use as decorative item anywhere in the home.

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Find addtional deals for Mother’s Day Flowers

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CEO Chris McCann of  1-800-flowers, made due on his promise to have  a bouquet designed after one his most passionate employees in one of their retail locations. Dee, the expert floral designer was honored with the ultimate tribute. 

After going undercover on the CBS hit show “Undercover Boss”, McCann sought to find out the reason why this particular store Dee worked in consistantly outperformed others.

He soon discovered that the secret to the stores success had nothing to do with the customers affinity to 1-800-flowers per se, but with the connection Dee developed with customers in addition to her attitude and passion as a florist.

In a show of gratitude McCann decided to have a bouquet designed after Dee called Dee’s Paradise.  

See Dee’s Paradise here

The floral arrangement features roses, Gerbera daisies, snapdragons, carnations, lilies, hypericum, button poms and seeded eucalyptus among other flowers for a beautiful arrangement. 

The Dee’s Paradise flowers at 1-800-Flowers come in a special olive green glass hurricane vase which stands about 8 inches in height. 

A portion of all proceeds from the sales of these arrangments will go to the “Certified Floral Designer” program which is a scholarship fund for aspiring florists.

You can also see the full episode of “Undercover Boss” featuring Dee’s Paradise and 1-800-Flowers in our previous post or go here.

Dee’s Paradise reflects the passion and dedication behind her job much like the dedication and passion exhibited by Mom’s everywhere who love and care for their children.

For Mother’s Day find a bouquet that represents your Mom’s passion and dedication and honor her, for the jobs she has done.

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