The Mirror of the Millennium:
Looking for Individuality


Matching Flowers with Personalities
Today's consumers are desperately seeking individuality. Maybe it's the turn of a new millennium that's making us feel small in the face of such a large historical marker, or the malling of America that has overwhelmed us with legions of mass-produced goods. Either way, consumers are saying "no" to the notion that one size fits all.

From custom-fitted jeans and shoes to customized on-line newspapers, consumers want to feel that there is no one else out there quite like themselves -- no one else with their unique combination of personality, interests and attitudes.

Tailoring Gifts to Recipients
As this desire for personal attention grows, consumers spend more time personalizing the gifts they give. In fact, a survey commissioned by the Society of American Florists bears the trend out in hard numbers: 89 percent of Americans place a priority on choosing gifts that reflect the personality of the recipient.

The dilemma? A lack of time to search high and low for unique gifts. The solution, in many cases, is the gift of flowers. Floral arrangements are one of the easiest gifts to customize. With the hundreds of sizes, shapes and colors flowers come in, the possibilities are endless.

Many consumers agree: Close to half (45%) of the survey participants feel comfortable ordering flowers because they rely on their florist for advice. However, one out of four people feel uncomfortable when ordering flowers because either they don't know flower names or don't know how to describe what they want. An additional 20 percent are only comfortable when they order the same flowers each time.

Knowing flower names is not something consumers need to be concerned about. Consumers already have the proper tools to order the perfect flower arrangement. If you know someone's personality, you know enough to order flowers that are unique for them.

Fun With Flowers: Customizing Floral Gifts
Just like people, flowers come in hundreds of shapes and sizes. When it comes to gift giving, carefully selecting the varieties and colors you send will result in thoughtful, customized gifts people appreciate and like to receive.

The first step is to consider the preferences of the person who is receiving the gift. For instance: What colors do they like? Do they have any favorite flowers? What are their hobbies? And, ask yourself what message you want to convey.

Second, take the Society of American Florists online personality quiz, where you can determine your or a friend's "Floral Signature." By answering a few fun multiple choice questions, you can click to see examples of arrangements you or a friend might like. The quiz, as well as a flower guide, floral design library and gift giving and decorating tips, are available at www.aboutflowers.com.

Finally, consult with your florist, who can help you create just the right gift, as well as explain the assortment of possibilities available.

Floral Signatures include:

People who are casual, earthy and prefer the outdoors. Flowering or green plants, meadow flowers and woodsy accents suit this personality best.

People who are generous, spontaneous and extravagant. Bouquets of soft colors, light fragrances and accents of lace or ribbon might suit romantics.

Individuals who seek personal betterment and are attracted to the unconventional - from new age to the arts. Exotic flowers and unusual combinations of shape, color and texture will match their creativity and artistic bent.

People who are trustworthy, family oriented and prefer classic styles. They appreciate lush arrangements with a great variety of flowers.

Individuals who are cutting-edge trendsetters and enjoy living in the moment. Vogue styles such as monochromatic bouquets or arrangements with a few, large vibrant flowers are favorites.

To determine your Floral Signature, log on to www.aboutflowers.com.

In the spotlight

"Contemporary"

Flowers featured: Fuchsia carnations, green anthuriums, chrysanthemums, anemones and mini carnations. Curly willow, flax, dracaena and leatherleaf foliage also featured.

Created to attract attention with bold colors, a strong linear design and sleek contemporary container, this floral arrangement is sure to please the contemporary personality who is outgoing, likes to set trends and seeks the unusual.

Isn't it romantic

"Romantic"

Flowers featured: Roses, spray roses, peonies, lisianthus, lilac, tulips, sweet peas and anemones. Ivy, leatherleaf foliage and wired organza ribbon also featured.

For the romantic personality who is warm, spontaneous and generous, a bouquet of fragrant flowers created to reflect a mood of grace and harmony is a perfect match.

*Editor's Note: To retrieve photos in digital form for use in news stories, contact Wieck Photo Database at (972) 392-0888. (Refer to the Floral News Bureau file and picture title).

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