I did have a professional discussion with a group of florists who struggled with their business that rely on Teleflora, 1-800 or other wires services. My conclusion for all of them and also for our clients is below.Everyone need to learn what’s behind the scenes of a stunning marketing campaign with mammoth companies.
In today’s floral industry, many people are surprised to learn that it’s often harder than ever for local florists to thrive. Big floral networks like Teleflora and 1-800-Flowers have made online flower shopping convenient, but that convenience comes at a serious cost — especially for the artist behind the flowers: the florist.
At 6 Star Florist and Gifts – Corina, based in San Francisco -Hayward and serving the greater Bay Area and beyond, I’ve made a clear and intentional decision: I do not work with mass-market floral networks. And here’s why.
The Hidden Cost of Convenience
These large companies take a significant cut from every order — often leaving the florist with a fraction of the original budget to work with. That means fewer and cheaper flowers, lower quality, and almost no room for creativity or care. At the same time, customers are being sold a dream through heavily edited, polished photos that rarely match what’s actually delivered.
Stunning pictures online do not guarantee stunning results in real life. And when a customer feels disappointed, the blame doesn’t fall on the company — it falls on the florist who had very little control in the first place.
Real Connection > Mass Production
I always recommend that people work directly with a local florist — someone who knows the area, who can deliver with care, and who genuinely values each order. When you build a relationship with a florist, it becomes more than just a transaction — it becomes a creative partnership.
Many of my clients have worked with me for years. They trust me with every occasion, and in return, I’ve learned their needs, styles, and even their personalities. I treat their floral arrangements with the same care and thoughtfulness as a personal gardener would. That level of service simply can’t come from a mass-market order.
You Can Be Successful with 5 Orders — and Lose with 20
Success isn’t about quantity. You can have 5 meaningful, intentional orders that truly reflect your artistry and values, or you can have 20 rushed, impersonal ones that drain your spirit. I've chosen the path that brings purpose and pride.
People deserve to receive what they’ve paid for — never less. That’s a principle I will never compromise on.
Every Order Is Personal at 6 Star Florist and Gifts – Corina
Here, there are no copy-and-paste designs. I hand-select every flower in person for every order — whether it’s a birthday bouquet, a wedding, a sympathy arrangement, or a just-because gift. I believe that **every customer is special and should feel that way.**
I create premium floral designs using quality materials and an artist’s eye. I bring joy, elegance, and intention into each arrangement because that’s what real floral design is about — not just profit, but passion, connection, and care.
In the End, It’s About Values
Working with Teleflora or similar networks might offer more exposure, but it takes away everything that makes this work meaningful: the art, the personal connection, the joy of creating something truly unique.
At 6 Star Florist and Gifts – Corina, I design with heart. I serve with purpose. And I believe in honoring every client by delivering not just flowers — but feelings, memories, and moments of love.
Hope you are careful in choosing your personal designer from now on. Thank you for reading this article.
Best,
Corina
(925)695-4570 Call us for details .
@6starfloristgifts Instagram presents some of our work
