Why quality matters, the difference between supermarket flowers and luxury flowers

Flowers hold the power to communicate emotions, celebrate life’s milestones, and create beauty in our everyday lives. At Forests and the Flowers, we are committed to providing arrangements that go beyond aesthetics. Our passion lies in sourcing exceptional blooms that tell a story - one of artistry, sustainability, and social responsibility.

Supermarket flowers may seem like an easy choice, but their convenience comes at a cost. From shortened vase life to ethical concerns, the differences between supermarket flowers and those from a luxury florist are significant. Let’s dive into why quality matters and how Forests and the Flowers blends high-end imports with seasonal local sourcing to offer the best of both worlds.

1. The Real Reason Supermarket Flowers Are So Cheap

Supermarket flowers are primarily used as “loss leaders.” These pre-packaged bouquets are priced attractively to draw in customers, encouraging impulse buys while improving the store’s ambiance. Supermarkets use their large-scale buying power to purchase flowers in bulk at discounted prices, prioritising cost over quality.

Luxury florists, like Forests and the Flowers, approach sourcing differently. Our flowers are chosen for their exceptional beauty, unique varieties, and longevity. This allows us to craft arrangements that stand out and last longer, giving you more value and joy from every bouquet.

2. The Impact of Sourcing: Imported and Local Flowers

At Forests and the Flowers, we strike a balance between imported (humanitarian) and locally sourced flowers (environmental)

• Imported Flowers:

Many of the high-quality, unique flowers in our designs are imported. These imports often come from regions where floriculture and horticulture provides critical jobs, food, and shelter to communities that might otherwise struggle with poverty. Having grown up in South Africa, I’ve personally witnessed the painful and devastating impact of boycotts on industries that rely on exports under already volatile economic circumstances. By supporting these farms, we contribute to livelihoods and sustainable economic development.

• Locally Sourced Flowers:

During the summer months, when flowers are in full bloom, we source locally which we combine with our imported luxury flowers. This seasonal approach supports nearby growers and reduces the carbon footprint of transportation, while still delivering the vibrant, fresh florals our clients expect.

Our sourcing philosophy ensures that we honour both global and local growers, crafting arrangements that are not only beautiful but also socially responsible.

3. Why You Won’t Find Our Flowers in Supermarkets

Supermarket flowers are chosen for their ability to endure long supply chains and mass distribution. Unfortunately, this means they are often Picked prematurely, which affects their bloom quality and vase life. Limited to basic, high-yield varieties that lack the uniqueness of luxury arrangements.

Luxury florists like Forests and the Flowers select blooms Forests and the Flowersat their peak, often including rare and seasonal flowers you’ll never see in a supermarket. Every stem is carefully chosen for its beauty, quality, and ability to contribute to a bespoke design.

4. A combination of Supporting Sustainable and Ethical Practices

Here’s how we ensure our sourcing practices are ethical and sustainable:

• Imported Flowers with Purpose:

Many of our imported flowers come from farms in regions where agriculture has been commercialised, leaving communities reliant on floriculture for survival. These farms provide vital employment opportunities, and our support helps maintain livelihoods in areas that lack alternatives. Boycotting these farms without a plan is not an option and will have a negative rational economic impact on the locals for generations.

• Locally Grown in Summer:

When flowers are naturally blooming in abundance during summer, we buy locally. This supports nearby farmers, reduces transport emissions, and ensures you enjoy the freshest seasonal blooms.

By combining imported and local sourcing, we avoid compromising on quality while staying mindful of our social and environmental impact.

5. The art of floristry and Personalisation:

Everyone of our arrangements is a tailored work of art. Unlike supermarket bouquets, which are mass-produced with no attention to detail, we:

• Design each bouquet to suit your unique needs and preferences.

• Incorporate premium flowers, such as orchids, garden roses, and peonies for a sophisticated finish.

• Ensure every arrangement tells a story, adding meaning to your floral gift or décor.

6. Why Quality Matters: Longer-Lasting, Better-Looking Flowers

Supermarket flowers often have a shortened vase life due to prolonged shipping and storage. The flowers sourced by supermarkets start a very low buying rate therefore generic, small and poor quality. They may wilt or lose vibrancy within days. In contrast, our flowers are fresher and longer-lasting because they are sourced carefully, cared for and cured expertly.

When you choose a luxury florist, you’re investing in flowers that:

-Stay fresh longer.

-Maintain vibrant colours and shapes.

-Are backed by professional care tips to help you enjoy them even more.

-Unique and unusual stems that stand out from a standard vase of flowers

There is a Meaningful Choice in Every Stem

When you choose luxury flowers from Forests and the Flowers, you’re not just buying a bouquet—you’re investing in quality, artistry, detail and ethical sourcing. From unique imported to seasonal local flowers, our designs are carefully curated to bring you beauty that lasts.

By supporting both global and local growers, we contribute to a floral industry that uplifts communities, respects the planet, and delivers exceptional results to our clients.

Explore our bespoke arrangements here or book a consultation here for your wedding or event with us to see why quality flowers and design matters.