Timing Bird of Paradise and Calla Lily Orders for a Wedding

A mother ordering wholesale for a Saturday wedding asked how far in advance to buy Bird of Paradise and calla lilies.

Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia)

• Shipped in **open bud stage** (tight buds often rot before opening).
• Allow **2 days conditioning**: Order for **Wednesday** delivery for a Saturday wedding.
• Keep cool, hydrated, and upright.

Calla Lilies

• Hydrate quickly; need only **1 day**.
• Order for **Thursday or Friday** delivery.
• Store in shallow water, cool, away from ethylene sources.

Confirm delivery schedules with your wholesaler; some require 48-hour lead time.