When it comes to courting someone, Natasha Stopke firmly believes flowers are always a good idea.
“Girls are never going to be upset to receive flowers. If we get a box of chocolates every week, we’re going to be pissed.”
But even more important than an arrangement is the note, says the owner and lead designer of La Belle Bloom in Little Italy.
She’s transcribed pet names from Smelly Pants to Panda; messages from secret admirers that teeter toward creepy (“I don’t care how cute it is in the movies, in this day and age it’s not”); even an “I’m sorry, you’re the one I want” message on identical arrangements that were to be delivered “discreetly” to two different women in the same office… on the same day.
As for “I’m sorry” bouquets, she always advises to go big. “I have some guys say they only want to spend $25, but that’s going to keep you in the doghouse!”
More words to the wise: Place your orders early, especially for Valentine’s Day, and try to send to a home address instead of an office. Don’t even attempt a federal building, where couriers have to deal with—and upcharge for—inconveniences like paying for parking and navigating security.
When it comes to choosing the bloom, let your florist decide. “In a modern flower-appreciating kind of world, anything goes. I get offended when someone says no roses or carnations.” Well, peonies are her exception.
“We get calls for peonies once a day, but there’s a very small season they’re available [in the spring]. There are other flowers besides peonies. Put that in huge letters.”
A San Diego Florist Tells All
