There are several pieces of information that you need to communicate to your local florist. A good florist knows these pieces of information and will ask the right questions. If you do not have a good local florist, you may need to take matters into your own hands and order flowers online. Either way, if at any point during the ordering process you don't feel you're getting through, don't be afraid to ask for what you want. If you still don't feel comfortable, politely cancel the order and try again elsewhere.

What date do you want the flowers delivered? Many florists offer same day delivery and some even offer timed delivery. If the timing is important to you, understand that you may have to pay for a special service. A good florist will meet your needs and charge you accordingly.

To whom and where are the flowers to be delivered?

Do your part and have the recipient's name, address and phone number ready.

What is the occasion and what do you want the flowers to say?

Here's where you may need to interject the details. If it's a Congratulations for a new baby, there's a big difference in what you'd likely say to a business associate upon the birth of her baby than for your beautiful wife on the occasion of bringing your precious little girl into the world. If you would say different things to the people, then you'd send different flowers. When the clerk asks what the occasion is, give the details he or she will need to help you choose the right flowers. For instance, for the associate, you might end up sending a pretty basket of pink and white flowers with a balloon attached. For your wife and new baby girl, you might end up sending 12 light pink sweetheart roses arranged with baby's breath in a silver mint julep cup. Big difference

What is the budget?

Unfortunately, many florists will ask this question before any of the others, it sounds like "how much do you want to spend?". You're not a professional florist; you don't know how much it will cost to say exactly what you want to say. Still, there is probably a budget you have in mind, so answer this question with another question like "the flowers are for my dearest Uncle's funeral. I want a special tribute that includes his love of rose gardening. Can you give me some suggestions and tell me how much they would cost?".

This is where ordering online appeals to many customers. If your local florist has become so accustomed to the "how much do you want to spend?" manner of sales that you cannot have a meaningful conversation about the options they can provide, it's time for you to do some shopping online. Find a site where you can see photos and prices and take your time choosing the product that is right for you. Be sure to pay attention to order processing and delivery fees.

How will you be paying for the flowers?

Very few florists still have house accounts, and if you are ordering online, a house account is out of the question. Be prepared to pay by credit card or to go to the store to pay in cash.

Armed with a little knowledge and some confidence, you can order flowers that say just the right thing. Take a minute to be prepared before you pick up the phone and once you have, gently and firmly insist upon good service. If you take the time to be clear about your expectations, you won't be disappointed.