I think it's really important to get your flowers from a local florist, in order to get the freshest flowers that will last as long as possible - as well as supporting local business. You'll also save the extra delivery/processing fee your florist will charge for delivery outside the local area - which is probably just them contacting the florist in the delivery area and arranging delivery through them. We've got a local florist here in town we've used a few times, for things like prom flowers. If we wanted to send flowers to someone here locally, we'd go through the local florist.
Of course, for sending flowers to someone who lives in another town, the Internet makes it easy to find a local florist in their area. For instance, if you want to send birthday flowers to someone in the Roanoke, Salem or Vinton, VA area, you'd visit the website for George's Flowers and either order online, use their smart phone app, or call to get the perfect gift delivered. They really do have some gorgeous flower arrangements, and they use the latest methods for long-lasting freshness. George's Flowers has been the Roanoke Valley's premier florist since 1981, and they pride themselves on excellent floral design and outstanding customer service. Besides flowers, they also have balloons, candy, and special banners.
I did send balloons and candy once - for Jeffrey's 30th birthday! Oh wow, that was a day or two ago... back when 30 seemed old, or at least when I could give him a hard time about turning 30.
