The short answer: send the flowers the day before, in a vase or as a plant, so your host has nothing extra to do while guests are arriving. If you are bringing them yourself, choose something that needs no arranging. A bouquet handed over at the door often means your host has to stop what they are doing and hunt for a vase. This guide covers what works, what to skip and what to say.
Send ahead if you can
The kindest way to give flowers to a host is to have them arrive before the party. A delivery the day before gives your host time to choose a spot, and the flowers can do their part in dressing up the room when guests walk in. It also means your thanks arrive when your host is thinking about the party, not after the dishes are done.
If you only learn about the party at the last minute, a delivery the day after works too. Your host can sit down, put their feet up and enjoy the flowers once the house is quiet. Add a card that says how much you enjoyed the evening.
What to send a holiday host
- A bouquet in its own vase. The easiest choice. There is no trimming or looking for a container, and the flowers can go straight onto a side table or a mantel. Our Christmas and winter holiday flowers and best sellers are a good place to start.
- A plant. A plant asks for nothing on the day and lasts well after the holidays. Our plants and succulents and orchids suit a host who likes to keep things around. A poinsettia is the classic seasonal pick for a Christmas party.
- A gift basket. Treats give your host something for the quiet days afterward. Our gift baskets are made to order and need at least one day's notice, so plan ahead.
Bringing flowers in person
If you are carrying your gift to the door, keep your host's evening in mind.
- Choose flowers already in a vase or a plant in a pot, so nothing needs to be done.
- Hand them over with a simple "No need to do anything with these, they are ready to go."
- If you can, ask where to put them, and take care of it yourself.
- Skip a surprise centrepiece. Your host has probably already planned the table.
Should you send a centrepiece?
A centrepiece is a lovely gift, but only if your host knows it is coming. Most hosts have a plan for the table, and a large surprise can throw that off. Ask first, or send it a few days ahead so it can be used through the season. Our guide to choosing a Christmas centrepiece explains which sizes and colours work. If it holds candles, tell your host so they can decide when to light them.
A party at the office or with a group
For a work party or a gathering of friends, it can be easier to send one gift from everyone. Choose a bouquet or a basket that the whole group can enjoy, and sign the card with the team's name. Send it to the person organizing the event, and include the company name, the suite number and a phone number so it reaches them on time. Our guide to holiday gifts for clients and staff has more ideas for the workplace.
Things to check first
- Pets. Lilies are dangerous to cats, and some holiday greens can upset pets. If your host has a cat, choose a design without lilies.
- Allergies and scent. Strongly scented flowers can compete with the food at a dinner. If you know a guest has allergies, choose roses or orchids, which have a light scent.
- Colours. Reds and greens are classic, but not every host decorates that way. White and green is a safe choice that works with most rooms.
- The holiday itself. If your host celebrates Hanukkah instead, our guide to Hanukkah flowers and gifts can help.
What to write on the card
Every order includes a free handwritten card. A sentence or two is all you need:
- Thank you for having us. We can't wait to see you on Saturday.
- Thank you for a wonderful evening. You make it look easy.
- For all the work you put into the party. Enjoy a quiet day with these.
- Thank you for bringing everyone together again this year.
For more wording, see our guide on what to write on a Christmas card with flowers.
Sending flowers for a holiday party
Every flower arrangement is hand-arranged in our Mississauga studio. We offer same-day delivery of fresh flowers across the GTA, and delivery is free on orders over $50. If you need flowers to arrive at a specific time, call us at 905-677-9999 before you order. For more ideas, read our guide to Christmas flowers and holiday gift ideas.