Five things you may not know about florists in France
They still play a unique role in French village life and many act as parcel delivery hubs
Florists are often one of the last remaining commerces in small towns
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1- Les fleuristes
Florists and chemists are among the last shops to close in small villages, surviving because flowers are such a central part of life in France. People buy bunches of cut flowers as gifts for a host or hostess, as tokens of appreciation for friends, and as treats for grandparents. C'est gentil!
2- Les colis
Because they are usually open very long hours including Sunday mornings, florists shops are often also pick-up points for deliveries. It is fine not to buy anything from the shop when you collect a parcel, but very polite to compliment them on how pretty it looks. Très mimi!
Read more: Cherry blossoms galore: Europe's largest Japanese garden is in France
3- Les bouquets
If you want a floral centrepiece for Easter lunch, a custom-made wreath for Christmas, a monochrome bouquet in tones of blue for your mother-in-law, or any other specific ideas, you can visit a florist in advance to peruse their designs, discuss what is possible and place an order. Parfait!
4- Les coutumes
Certain flowers are customary, like offering friends and relatives a small but highly scented sprig of lily of the valley on May 1, and taking brightly coloured chrysanthemums to graveyards for La Toussaint on November 1. Ask your florist for advice on the most appropriate flower for the occasion. C'est bien pensé!
5- La mousse florale
If you enjoy arranging your own flowers, do not forget to buy oasis from the florist for the bottom of your flower vase. It is cheap and will keep your arrangements in place. If you are lucky, you will also get valuable free advice about how to 'garder les fleurs'. Et voilà!
