I had received at least one arrangement from Gillespie in the past. Since I'd had experience with them before and they are local to the west side, I decided to take a look at their website Friday evening. I had just learned that a friend had died and wanted to have something sent over to the funeral home by Monday morning.
Gillespie's website was more appealing and easier to use than some of the others I glanced at. I also noticed that they were still open while all the others had already closed for the night. I called to ask some questions and ended up placing my order over the phone.
When I had first called, a nice lady was transferring me to someone and the call was disconnected. I called back and spoke to Jennifer. She answered my questions about sizes and prices for the upgrades available for two particular planter arrangements I was interested in. She took down all the necessary information, gave me the total, and told me I would receive a photo by text on Sunday (today) and that my arrangement would be delivered Monday (tomorrow.) Jennifer was kind and it was a pleasant experience.
I had nearly forgotten all about the photo until I turned on my phone today and saw it in a new text message. The arrangement was so pretty that I couldn't stop looking at it. I love that they do this for their customers. It is especially nice when you are not certain that you will see the arrangement in person. Now I know exactly what my friend's family will be receiving and I have a picture to keep.
The total cost was a bit more than I was wanting to spend, but I had not factored in the $9.99 delivery fee. These days it seems everything is going up considerably in price, so taking that into account, the cost was reasonable. I don't often order flowers anymore, so I am sure I am a bit out of tune on the going rate. I am especially alright with the price after seeing the arrangement in the photo I received.
I love some of the extras Gillespie offers, such as the small ceramic cherub I chose for my arrangement. I know firsthand that it is something the recipient can keep for years to come, as I received one myself in a sympathy arrangement a few years ago. Long after the demise of my planter, I still have the cherub sitting in another houseplant. I see it daily and always have that little reminder of the person who sent it to me.
I would certainly use Gillespie again in the future. The picture courtesy alone really makes them stand out when compared to other florists. If I could afford to do it, I would send flowers all the time. Just looking at their website made me feel cheery and had me imagining who all I could send arrangements. I just love the idea of sending (and receiving!) flowers and plants. read more