Q: To whom do I send the engagement flowers?

A: It’s not uncommon to send flowers to the parents of the soon-to-be-weds as well as the soon-to-be-weds themselves, but it’s not a must-do. If your budget is limited, your order of priority should be the happy couple (send the flowers to her home if they’re not yet cohabiting), her folks, then his folks. Any other relatives that score a bunch of blooms on this occasion should count themselves super lucky!

Q: Is it bad manners not to send an engagement gift?

A: Not at all — but we always think that, if you feel you ought, then maybe you should. It doesn’t have to be something over the top. Even our simplest arrangement of fresh flowers will be greatly appreciated. Wouldn’t you like to get the blessing of your friends and family if it were you who had just announced that you’d decided to spend the rest of your life with someone you loved?

Florist Tips

Use fresh flower stems for napkin rings at your next summer party. Simply fold the stem around the napkin, then knot it, and snip off the excess length.