5 Best Times to Buy Flowers & When You Really Shouldn’t Wait

Ordering flowers seems simple—until you realize you’re cutting it close and start wondering about the best times to buy flowers for that big day. Whether you’re planning a romantic surprise, celebrating a milestone, or honoring someone’s memory, timing is everything when it comes to flower delivery.
Here’s your go-to guide on the best times to buy flowers—and the situations when you really shouldn’t wait.

💐 Why Timing Matters

Flowers are seasonal, and so is demand. Ordering too early can mean wilted stems. Ordering too late? You might miss out on your favorite blooms—or delivery slots. Planning ahead means:
• Fresher flowers
• Better selection
• Less stress
• More impact (because it looks thoughtful, not rushed!)

📆 Best Times to Buy Flowers for Major Occasions

1. Valentine’s Day

It’s best to place your order 7-10 days ahead. This is the most hectic and high-demand day of the year for florists. Same-day delivery options fill up quickly, and ordering early will give you more variety and potentially better prices.

2. Mother’s Day

Ordering at least a week in advance is recommended, but the earlier, the better. Many florists offer personalized bouquets for this occasion, and with numerous families ordering multiple arrangements, stock can run low quickly. To ensure you get your preferred flowers, it’s wise to plan.

3. Birthdays & Anniversaries

For these occasions, aim to place your order 3-5 days in advance. While last-minute surprises can be fun, ordering ahead ensures the bouquet arrives on the special day rather than after the fact.

4. Graduations

Graduation events often take place at the same time across multiple schools, ordering 5-7 days in advance is a good rule of thumb. Pre-ordering avoids delays and ensures you get your flowers on time for the celebration.

5. Funerals & Sympathy Flowers

These arrangements are time-sensitive, so placing your order 1-2 days ahead is crucial. Whether the flowers are going to a service or a funeral home, ensuring timely delivery is important during such a sensitive time.

🚨 When You Shouldn’t Wait

– Weddings & Special Events

When it comes to weddings or large events, it’s best to place your floral order 4 to 6 weeks in advance. These types of arrangements often require customization and careful planning. Florists may need to source specific flowers directly from growers, which takes time. Also, popular dates fill up quickly, so the sooner you book, the better your chances of securing your preferred florist and floral selections.

– Major Holidays (Christmas, Easter, New Year’s)

Flowers are a popular choice for decorating and gifting during major holidays, making this a busy time for florists. Whether you’re sending a festive bouquet or sprucing up your home, it’s smart to order at least a week in advance. Delivery slots tend to book up fast, and waiting until the last minute could limit your options or cause delays. Planning early ensures your holiday flowers arrive fresh and on time, ready to spread cheer or complete your festive setup.

In both cases, planning is the key to getting exactly what you want, when you need it.

🌿 Bonus Tip: Set Reminders

Consider setting calendar reminders for those special flower-giving moments—like birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, or even spontaneous “just because” surprises.

💌 Final Thoughts

Timing is everything, especially when you’re saying it with flowers. Planning your flower orders just a few days early can make the difference between a thoughtful surprise and a last-minute scramble.
👉 Need help choosing flowers for an upcoming event? Browse our seasonal collection or reach out—we’d love to help make someone’s day bloom.the