Grand opening flower stands are an essential part of Hong Kong’s business culture, symbolizing prosperity, success, and goodwill. Here’s everything you need to know about sending these impressive floral displays.

Understanding Grand Opening Flower Stands

In Hong Kong, grand opening flower stands (開張花籃) are large, elaborate floral arrangements typically standing 5-6 feet tall. They’re displayed outside new businesses, restaurants, and shops to celebrate their opening and attract good fortune.

Cultural Significance

• Symbol of Support: Sending a flower stand shows your support for the new business and strengthens relationships
• Face and Status: The number and quality of flower stands reflect the business owner’s network and standing in the community
• Auspicious Colors: Red, pink, and yellow flowers are preferred for their associations with prosperity and good luck
• Always in Pairs: Flower stands are traditionally sent in pairs (even numbers) as odd numbers are associated with funerals

When to Send

• Timing: Flower stands should arrive on opening day, typically early morning before the business opens
• Advance Notice: Order at least 3-7 days in advance, though some florists accept rush orders
• Display Duration: Stands typically remain for 1-3 days

Ordering Process

1. Choose a Florist

• Select a florist experienced in commercial arrangements
• Many Hong Kong florists specialize in grand opening stands
• Online ordering is common and convenient

2. Select Your Style

Popular options include:

• Traditional style: Two-tiered stands with mixed flowers and congratulatory messages
• Modern style: Contemporary designs with orchids, roses, and tropical flowers
• Premium luxury: Elaborate arrangements with rare flowers and decorative elements

3. Pricing

• Basic stands: HKD 800-1,500 per stand
• Mid-range: HKD 1,500-3,000 per stand
• Premium: HKD 3,000-8,000+ per stand
• Remember to order in pairs, so double your budget

Essential Elements

The Congratulatory Banner (祝賀橫額)

Every flower stand includes a banner with:

• Sender’s name (your name or company)
• Congratulatory message (typically “恭賀開張” – Congratulations on Your Opening)
• Recipient’s business name
• Text is usually in Chinese, but bilingual options are available

Flowers to Include

Auspicious choices:

• Orchids (elegance and refinement)
• Roses (success and beauty)
• Lilies (prosperity)
• Chrysanthemums (in autumn – avoid white ones)
• Birds of Paradise (success and good fortune)
• Anthuriums (hospitality)

Avoid:

• White flowers (associated with funerals)
• White chrysanthemums specifically (funerals)

Delivery Details

Information Needed

When ordering, provide:

• Recipient’s business name and contact number
• Complete delivery address
• Opening date and preferred delivery time
• Your name/company name for the banner
• Any specific message or design preferences

Delivery Logistics

• Florists handle setup and placement
• Confirm the venue has space for stands (some buildings have restrictions)
• Indoor vs. outdoor placement affects design choices
• Retrieval is often handled by the florist after the display period

Etiquette Tips

1. Check with the recipient: Subtly confirm they want flower stands (some modern businesses prefer alternatives)
2. Coordinate with others: If multiple people are sending stands, you might coordinate to avoid overwhelming small spaces
3. Business relationships matter: The quality of your stand should reflect your relationship with the recipient
4. Include a separate card: Send a personal congratulatory card along with the stand
5. Follow up: Visit the opening or send a message acknowledging the occasion

Modern Alternatives

Some businesses now prefer:

• Fruit baskets or hampers: Practical and impressive
• Potted plants: Longer-lasting (especially money trees or bamboo)
• Champagne or wine towers: For upscale establishments
• Charitable donations: In the business’s name

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ordering single stands instead of pairs
• Using white or pale colors
• Forgetting to include sender information on the banner
• Ordering too late (especially around peak opening seasons)
• Choosing inappropriate sizes for the venue
• Not confirming delivery access with building management

Quick Checklist

• [ ] Order 3-7 days in advance
• [ ] Order in pairs (even numbers)
• [ ] Choose auspicious colors and flowers
• [ ] Provide accurate delivery details
• [ ] Confirm banner text and sender name
• [ ] Specify delivery time (early morning preferred)
• [ ] Follow up with recipient after delivery

Hong Kong florist recommendations

Grand opening flower stands remain a cherished tradition in Hong Kong’s business culture. By following these guidelines, you’ll send an appropriate and well-received gift that honors local customs while celebrating your business associate’s new venture.