Thursday, September 19, 2013

Bloomex featured in Ottawa Business Journal

Check out this article from Mark Brownlee of the Ottawa Business Journal that mentions Bloomex, and features a photo of our founder and president, Dimitri! Here's the relevant passages: 

Ottawa-based online flower shop Bloomex will always take responsibility if a customer isn’t happy with their product, said Dimitri Lokhonia, the company’s president. That includes cases where a customer has filled in their address wrong on the form.
But that can only go so far. Even though it’s only a very small percentage, Mr. Lokhonia said he’s seen cases of customers trying to steal from the company by asking for their flowers to be replaced even after they arrived as advertised.
The company receives about 20 online complaints out of the 200,000 sales it does every year, he said. That’s one of the reasons why he refuses to change how the company operates just because one or two people aren’t pleased.
When asked if he had any advice to businesses dealing with negative reviews online, Mr. Lokhonia said: “I would just do my job. The satisfied customers…(are) the people who will bring you business.”

Bloomex distribution centre, Dimitri
Dimitri Lokhonia is president of online flower shop Bloomex.

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Bouquets that are Blue, Perfect for You

Got a case of the blues? Know someone who does?

It's pretty natural in Canada for a lot of people to feel glum as winter begins to hit its stride. Bloomex offers a wide assortment of bouquets, including several that feature blue as a primary colour. 

These gorgeous bouquets just might brighten someone's day with some cool shades that add a certain calmness to any room. 


BEAUTIFUL IN BLUE  - $39.95:

This gorgeous bouquet features White Lilies and Chrysanthemums, paired with Yellow Chrysanthemums, Eucalyptus, Limonium, Cream Roses. 







BLUE AND WHITE JOY - $84.95


3 Delphinium Stems and 12 White Calla Lilies provide a pop of gorgeous colour in any setting. 


BLUE IRIS BOUQUET - $24.95


This vibrant assortment proves you can't go wrong with a little Iris in your life. 10 tall, beautiful Blue Iris are sure to make a great impression, and make for a beautiful arrangement that's as unique as it is pretty.






PURE DEVOTION - $34.99


Cream roses with splashes of button Spray Chrysanthemums, White Dahlia and Snapdragons make for a lovely arrangement. Stems of Huckleberry complete the look for an unforgettable bouquet that shows your devotion in spades.

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

6 Cities That Claim to Be Flower Capitals

Flower Fields in Lompoc, California. Photo from here.



Last month, we covered cities that claim to be the Rose City, or some such extremely close variation. With so many cities across North America, it's a wonder that more of them don't strive to have a more unique nickname for their little slices of land.

Why be a mere flower city when you can be a capital? Some of the following might be slightly dubious, but noteworthy all the same…

Lompoc, California - The Flower Seed Capital of the World
Lompoc is located in Southern California, in Santa Barbara County. It’s home to Camp Cooke, an army training camp, and later was a test site for ballistic missiles. More notably, it’s home to the Valley of Flowers, a massive stretch of flowered fields, and according to this, over half the world’s flower seeds are grown in these fields. Today, the city is known as the City of Arts and Flowers.

Crested Butte, Colorado - The Wildflower Capital of Colorado
This charming town of about 1,500 is a popular spot for outdoor sports like mountain biking, hiking and skiing. In fact, the town lays claim to have invented mountain biking, and is home to that activity’s Hall of Fame. The area is also home to the Crested Butte Wildflower Festival, which is held every July. Since 1990, it’s been officially designated as the Wildflower Capital of Colorado, by the state legislature.

Hearne, TX. From Wikipedia Creative Commons.
Hearne, Texas - Sunflower Capital of Texas
Hearne is a small city of about 4,500. The Texas State Legislature designated it as the state’s sunflower capital in 1997, owing to its history as a home of commercial sunflower production. According to this, the nickname has beendownplayed in recent years in favour of going with the “Crossroads of Texas,” due to its location between major cities Dallas, Houston and San Antonio.

Temple, Texas - Wildflower Capital of Texas
Temple, located in Central Texas, is home to about 65,000 residents. It was formed as a railroad town in the 1880s, and has had produced such luminaries as football legend “Mean” Joe Green, and actor Rip Torn. The city’s nickname is simply due to the large amount of wildflowers that grow in the area.

Tyler, TX, the Rose Capital of the World. Image from
Wikipedia Creative Commons.
Wasco, California - Rose Growing Capital of the World
Wasco has a well-earned nickname, as upwards of 55% of roses grown in the USA are grown in or around the city. The city is home to about 25,000 people, and also home to a large state prison.

Tyler, Texas - Rose Capital of the World
Tyler is a city of just under 100,000, which is home to the annual Texas Rose Festival. Former NFL Running Back Earl Campbell was nicknamed the Tyler Rose.


Monday, September 16, 2013

Half-Price Bouquets to Make Someone's Day

One of the advantages of our F3 Formula is that we're able to cut out the middlemen, thus offering Canada's lowest prices on most of our products. It's something that we're very proud of as a company.

In some cases,  we're able to make our prices on things such as gift baskets, bouquets and combo packages even lower. Check out some of these half-price deals that we offer:



MELODY BOUQUET:
Regular Price: $39.99
SALE PRICE: $19.99



This beautiful arrangement is always a popular choice with our customers, featuring upwards of 10 mixed Chrysanthemum stems, complimented by green fern.



ROSES & TEDDY SPECIAL
Regular Price: $39.99

SALE PRICE: $19.99

This adorable package will surely win the heart of that special someone. Comes with three long-stem roses, a teddy bear and a personalized card. For under 20 bucks, you can't beat it.





ROSES & CHOCOLATE SPECIAL
Regular Price: $49.99
SALE PRICE: $24.99


Roses and chocolate -- if there's a better combination to gift to your special someone, we'd like to hear it. This special comes with three long-stem roses, a heart shaped tin box, plus a custom card. Perfect for a Mother, or a lover or a significant other.




 
DESIGNERS COLLECTION I
BLOOMEX SALE PRICE: $25.00


DESIGNERS COLLECTION II
BLOOMEX SALE PRICE: $35.00


DESIGNERS COLLECTION III
BLOOMEX SALE PRICE: $45.00


DESIGNERS COLLECTION IV
BLOOMEX SALE PRICE: $75.00



Not sure exactly what you're looking for? Our Designer's Collection Bouquets take the worry out of that process. Leave it to our expert designers to create an arrangement that sparkles, for a price that can't be beat. Click on the individual product pages listed above for more information on what each collection entails.

 
FTD BLOOMING MASTERPIECE
Regular Price: $90.95
BLOOMEX SALE PRICE: $45.95

Just another example of how Bloomex's prices blow away the competition. Get 18 long stem red roses with a clear glass vase for just $45.95 -- one of the best values on quality roses that you'll find in Canada.





FTD PICK-ME-UP BOUQUET
Regular Price: $91.98
BLOOMEX SALE PRICE: $45.98

As the weather cools off north of the border, keep that summer feeling alive with this vibrant arrangement that's sure to lift the recipients' spirits. Features 18 stems of Gerbera Daisies and mixed roses for one incredibly low price.



Monday, September 09, 2013

Say Thanks, and Don't Break the Bank: 7 Nice Gifts Under $20

Mmm...Premium Chocolate...
The simple act of saying thanks might be a lost art in modern times, but it's so easy to show that you care with sites like Bloomex.

Check out this list of seven great, thoughtful gifts to send... all for less than $20.

Box of Premium Chocolates - $9.99.
You can never go wrong with chocolate, can you? This gold gift box is filled with creams,truffles, dark chocolate and more.

"I Care" Teddy Bear - $15.95.
A super sweet gesture for your loved one. Designed with our soft premium fur, this adorable "I Care" Bear is the perfect gift to let someone know you're thinking of them.

Chocolate Chip Cookies. Anyone
opposed? No? Didn't think so.
Cookies - Peanut Butter, Chocolate, Almond, Chocolate Chip - $19.95.
Consists of a one pound batch of fresh, homemade cookies within a decorative tin. Each tin contains about 12 cookies, making this a delicious way to say thanks. Can't decide between these flavours? We also offer an assorted box that might be worth a look.

Roses & Teddy Special - $19.99 (50% off). This might be one of the best deals that Bloomex offers. Get three long stem roes, a teddy bear and a personalized card.

"I Love You" Balloon Bouquet / Happy Face Balloon Bouquet - $19.99.
Depending on the context, either of these are sure to brighten someone's day.

Large Box of Premium Chocolates - $19.99.
We repeat -- you can not go wrong with chocolate. Contains an assortment of 16 chocolates, a perfectly thoughtful gift.

Friday, September 06, 2013

How does Bloomex Keep Its Prices So Low?

As Canada’s leading florist, Bloomex recognizes the importance of offering our customers quality products at a fair price.  We’re often asked how we can provide fresher flowers at better prices than our online and offline competitors.  It’s actually pretty simple...

The Bloomex “F3” Formula...


1.    Fresh – Our Flowers are “Fresh” because we buy direct from the Growers – unlike most Florists that purchase from wholesalers. Our flowers last longer because the time between the flowers being cut and from when you receive them is shorter.  In addition, to allow our beautiful bouquets, centerpieces and arrangements to last much longer they are delivered budding and ready to bloom.

2.    Fast – Our delivery service is “Fast” – as in Same Day to all Major Canadian Cities.  We own and operate our own production and distribution facilities across Canada, including, Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and Halifax.  We work with the top courier companies to ensure quality, reasonably priced, on-time delivery. Fast = Fresh!

3.    Fair – Our prices are “Fair” – we buy direct from the Grower eliminating the Middleman, and then pass those savings on directly to our customers.  We are also Canada’s largest and most successful Florist and as such, we have exceptional buying power – again, those savings are passed on to you.




The Bloomex Story: How a small Canadian start-up changed the online florist industry forever.


Interested in learning about the history of Bloomex? Here's a quick primer for your perusal.

One big idea

In 2006, Dimitri Lokhonia had a big idea. With the boom in new technologies, and Internet access becoming available to virtually every Canadian, so many businesses had undergone rapid change to cater to this new world of the web. But Lokhonia saw that flower delivery sites lagged behind the times, and knew there had to be a better way. Granted, the old-school models of existing florists fulfilling orders through wire services were successful – for the florists. But for consumers, the several stages of middlemen only added to their final cost. Bloomex was born out of the notion of doing things better than they’d been done before, and most importantly, offering consumers the lowest possible prices lower prices to send flowers anywhere in the country.

The Bloomex Advantage

Lokhonia founded Bloomex in 2006, spurring a revolution in the online florist industry. The plan? Bloomex would take orders on bloomex.ca, and instead of dealing with the convoluted, antiquated wire services, Bloomex would buy directly from flower growers. The orders would then be created and distributed from their own facilities, strategically located throughout our vast, great nation. The successful execution of such a plan required sheer determination and tenacity. Bloomex, in true, traditional Canadian fashion, is a company built on hard-work and perseverance.

Expansion of all sorts

Gift Baskets have become a
very successful part of Bloomex's
online offerings.
Bloomex’s corporate headquarters are located in the Nation’s Capital, Ottawa. Since those early days, the company’s success has allowed them to open additional production facilities in Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and Halifax. While Canadian based, Bloomex also has an International presence with full scale operations, production and fulfillment facilities located in USA and Australia.

Never content to rest on its laurels, the company has branched out from flowers to include other product offerings through its website. In 2008, Bloomex began selling Gift Baskets – the company is now Canada’s largest and most successful Fruit and Gift Basket provider. More recently, Bloomex added a line of Gourmet Gift products and a variety of other items. The company has also had great success with corporate sales -- gift baskets (which can be enhanced with Corporate Branded items like mugs and hats) are a huge hit, and the company also offers a unique “Office Fruit” program that provides fresh fruit on a weekly basis and promotes a healthy lifestyle. 

Canada’s Official Florist

Bloomex is Canada’s largest and most successful florist, having recently fulfilled its One Millionth order. Its commitment to high quality products at fair prices has paid off, as has the company’s pride in their customer service, both before and after-sale. Bloomex appreciates their customers and clients, and never takes them for granted. They are proud to be a wholly-owned and operated Canadian company. Bloomex is Canada’s true “Official Florist.”

Thursday, September 05, 2013

How to care for Fresh Cut Sunflowers

Though summer's on its way out, sunflowers can keep the bright, sunny feeling lasting into the cool Autumn days.
We sometimes are asked  about the best way to keep your sunflowers looking fresh for longer. You came to the right place! Check out these instructions from our website on how to keep them looking lively.


Sunflowers have naturally arched necks and look best in a tall narrow vase.
1) Cut 3cm off the stems and remove leaves that fall below the water line.
2) Fill vase with water and add 1 packet of flower food.
3) Re-cut stems, change water and add second packet of flower food on day 4.
4) Keep your sunflowers away from heat and drafts.
5) Remove spent leaves to keep bouquet looking fresh longer. 

Enjoy your sunflowers, and keep them fresh all fall to bring a burst of sunshine into any room!

8 Bouquets that Will Have You Tickled Pink

1. Shades of Pink - $19.99 - 



A gorgeous arrangement of Gerbera Daisies, Chrysanthemums, Alstroemeria and greenery.





Check out this wonderful creation that's sweeter than candy. Features Pink roses, spray roses and miniature carnations, accented by some White Button Spray Chrysanthemums and Lavender Limonium, finished off with some greenery.





This bouquet lives up to its name, with tones of pink and lavender making it a favourite. Pink Asiatic Lilies, Limonium and Alstroemeria compliment some lavennder Daisy Spray Chrysanthemums. Light yellow Roses and Mini Carnations provide some contrast.



 

This bouquet features fresh cut roses, Asiatic Lilies, Snapdragons, Waxflower and classic Carnations. Sure to put a smile on the face of the recipient.





This dazzling arrangement features varying tones of pink, with Asiatic Lilies, lighter Alstroemeria and Pink Roses, topped off with White Waxflower and greenery. 



  


 
This is a wonderful bouquet for any occasion. With Pretty in Pink, you'll receive pink roses, waxflower, Asiatic Lilies, Alstroemeria and lavender stock, with with seeded Eucalyptus to tie the look together. 





Roses, Asiatic lilies, Sweet William and Carnations  work together beautifully for a pure pink look. A stunning bouquet that's as fragrant as it is beautiful.




When nothing else will do, go with our Swept Away bouquet. Measuring close to 2 ft. in height, this bouquet comes loaded with red and pink roses, red and pink spray roses, pink oriental lilies, with purple carnations and mini carns to provide a slight bit of contrast. A brilliant arrangement that's consistently popular with Bloomex customers.

Wednesday, September 04, 2013

Four Fantastic Fruit Baskets

 
Sending a basket of fruit is a great alternative to sending flowers, if the situation calls for it. Perhaps flowers seem a little too dramatic, or you want to send something with some practical use rather than just sitting there looking and smelling pretty (not that there's anything wrong with that!)
So consider sending some fruit with Bloomex for your next occasion and turn someone's sour day sweet. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

European Sampler Basket
$34.95

"It's European!"
It's often said that many cultures in Europe have a taste for the finer things in life. Witness this fruit sampler basket, which comes with four pears (two Green D'Anjou and two D'Anjou),  four apples (two Fuji apples and two seasonal selections) and two Royal Naval Oranges. Perfect for a picnic or to send to a couple for their hospitality. Bon appetit!

Fruit Elegance
$44.95

"Apples n' Oranges (and a whole lot more)"
 This exquisite collection is premium in every sense of the word. Expect three Gala Apples and two Granny Smith's. Top it off with a couple of D'Anjou Pears, two branches of grapes, two extra large plums, three oranges and a pineapple. Phew, we're out of breath just listing those. A great gift for a small family to share. 

 Classic Fruit Basket
$54.95

"Classic...for a Reason"

A perennial best-seller at Bloomex, our Classic Fruit Basket stands the test of time with an array of fresh fruits. This basket includes four each of bananas, apples and pears; three oranges; two nectarines, two bunches of grapes and one pineapple, adorned by a small cut flower bouquet. A really gorgeous, flavorful way to let someone know you appreciate them or are thinking of them.

Super Deluxe Basket
$94.95
"Big time basket"
If you're in the position to go all out with a fruit basket gift, go with this.  It comes hand-packed and delivered with a personalized card and makes a great gift for virtually any occasion. Here's a full list of what you'll get in this exquisite arrangement:
Super Deluxe Basket of Fruit

  • 1 green D'Anjou Pear
  • 2 Red D'Anjou Pears
  • 2 Fuji Apples
  • 2 Granny Smith Apples
  • 3 Royal Navel Oranges
  • 1 Large Pineapple
  • 3 Extra Large Plums
  • 2 Premium Peaches
  • 2 Premium Kiwi
  • 2 Branches of Premium Grapes
  • 1 Sweet Melon, 
  • Assorted Cherries
  • 2 Premium Mangoes.
 Wow. Now that's one sweet basket.

Can't find the right mix of what you want in the basket you're sending, and what you're looking to pay? Let Bloomex create one for you. Click here to go to the custom basket page for info, or call  1-888-912-5666 to arrange your basket and get a price today.

Tuesday, September 03, 2013

How to care for fresh cut roses

Roses from Bloomex always make for an amazing gift, and with deals like our half-price rose specials, there's never been a better time to send some roses to that someone special.

We at Bloomex sometimes get inquiries about roses showing up not looking 100% ready for presentation. It's really just a matter of following these easy, step-by-step instructions -- do so and they'll be perfect in no time.


From the Bloomex website: 



All our long stem roses come from Ecuador and Colombia.

Your roses are thirsty and need to drink water for at least 6 hours to perk up. Please follow instructions below and your roses will bloom over the next few days.

1) Remove the outside guard petals. These rugged outer petals were left on to protect your roses during shipment.

2) Cut 2-3 cm off the stems and remove leaves and thorns that fall below the water line.

3) Fill vase with cold water and add 1 packet of flower food.

4) Re-cut stems, change water and add second packet of flower food on day 4.

5) For the longest life, keep your roses away from direct sunlight and heat.

Pretty simple stuff, huh? Don't forget to remove those guard petals, and the rest should perk up from there.

With that in mind, check out some beautiful roses here, with bouquets starting at $19.99 from Bloomex, your trusted Canadian florist.