Ad-free. Influence-free. Powered by consumers.
Skip to Main ContentThe payment for your account couldn't be processed or you've canceled your account with us.
Re-activateMother's Day is Sunday. Have you sent your mom her flowers yet? No? Plan on using a website like ProFlowers?
Our managing editor, Bob, recently discovered how ordering last-minute flowers online can be a wallet-thinning experience. After tacking on no less than four extra fees (a $2.99 "Care and Handling" fee, for example), shipping a bouquet to his mom would have cost Bob $28, almost the same amount as the flowers themselves.
Here's an alternative: Instead of paying a dotcom to ship flowers at an exorbitant cost, type your mom's address into Google Maps. Using the "search nearby" tool, you can find local florists. When I tried it I found a number of local florists in my mom's neighborhood, several with websites featuring pictures of floral arrangements. Even without images, a florist could probably put together a nice bouquet of mom's favorite flowers to match your budget.
Google Maps has the added benefit of including reviews for businesses, from florists to restaurants, so you can see what others say about their service.
As with all purchases, do your homework. A local florist might be a great alternative, but keep an eye out for 11th-hour sales from online businesses as well.
—Nick K. Mandle
Build & Buy Car Buying Service
Save thousands off MSRP with upfront dealer pricing information and a transparent car buying experience.
Get Ratings on the go and compare
while you shop
