Buyer's Guides
How to approve a colour batch before reordering floral packaging
A product code identifies what you ordered. For a repeat order of dyed ribbon, printed paper or tinted film, approve the appearance of the actual batch as well. Keep a piece from the last lot you accepted, with its SKU, finish, date and lot code if available. Store it away from the shop window. Ask the supplier for a sample from the lot proposed for dispatch, and ask them to tell you if the lot changes before shipment.
Compare the samples at the wrapping bench
- Place the samples side by side on a neutral sheet. Align the grain or ribbon direction and put the same side up.
- Compare both under the lights used at the wrapping counter, then near a window in indirect daylight. For translucent material, repeat with the same backing and the same number of layers.
- Wrap the same bouquet in each material. Check the fold, overlap and visible finish from the customer’s side. Pair both with the ribbon or card used on that order.
- Record a decision against the SKU and lot: approved, approved for separate use, or hold. If two shades are acceptable on different orders but noticeable together, label the lots and keep them apart at the bench.
Record the decision before the order is released
An example approval record: “Ivory matte paper, lot B17, accepted under counter lights and in daylight for standard bouquets. Use one lot per wedding order. Confirm before replacing B17.” If an appearance difference matters to a customer, use a retained physical reference. A photo can document where the difference appears. Automatic white balance and screen settings can alter what the recipient sees.
Can I approve a repeat order from a photo?
Use a photo to screen samples. For colour-sensitive work, compare a physical sample from the proposed lot with the shop’s retained reference. If the shop already has unopened stock from the same lot, verify the carton label with the supplier before assuming that the new cartons match.
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