**CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS**
This document outlines the agreement between the Client ("you") and *Don't Toss The Bouquet: Floral Preservation, Inc.* ("DTTB") for the use of floral preservation services. By engaging DTTB, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these terms.
1. COSTS
Floral preservation products range from $45 to $750, with additional costs for upgrades. Prices exclude sales tax. Large displays include floral preservation, your chosen display, and customized design consultation.
2. BOUQUET DROPOFF AND ORDER PLACEMENT/PAYMENT
Booking Fee:
A $50 refundable booking fee is required to schedule a floral dropoff appointment. The fee is forfeited if you miss your appointment.
Deposit:
A non-refundable deposit of $150 + tax is due at dropoff (payable via cash, check, or credit card). For smaller orders, full payment is required at dropoff. Checks should be made payable to *Don’t Toss The Bouquet: Floral Preservation*.
Order Finalization:
- Finalize all order decisions via the website ordering system within one month of flower dropoff. Instructions are posted on website.
- Failure to finalize the order within one month will result in the discontinuation of the preservation process.
- The remaining balance is due upon finalizing your package. Process will not continue without final payment.
- Orders are considered official only when processed through the DTTB system. No verbal discussions count as official orders.
- **Mementos Submission**: Any mementos must be submitted with a proper form within three months of dropoff.
- **Timeline**: Timelines are based on the order finalization date, not the dropoff or deposit date. Timeline is a TENTATIVE ESTIMATE. Only in the case if florals are dropped off after order date, DTTB goes by the latest date (in this case, drop-off) for timeline.
3. PRESERVATION
- DTTB uses freeze-drying and silica gel preservation techniques, with additional processes such as strengthening, reshaping, and acrylic coloring.
- Color shades may change during preservation, and some flowers may shrink, shed, or fade over time due to environmental factors.
- Certain flowers (e.g., stephanotis, orchids, succulents) do not preserve well; DTTB may substitute artificial options upon request.
- Preservation results depend on the quality of flowers, which DTTB cannot guarantee.
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Proofs for display approval are included for most large displays but are not provided for smaller items. -Proofs are typically available within one year, depending on your package and cooperation. This is a tentative estimate, as all projects and florals are different.
4. SHOWROOM AND CONSULTATION POLICY
*Don’t Toss The Bouquet* offers a dedicated showroom that is open **by appointment only** for consultations.
Showroom Details
- The showroom features a wide variety of displays and products, allowing clients to see the quality, style, and expectations of final preserved floral items.
- Most item types are available for viewing, including shadowboxes, domes, resin pieces, and more, providing clients with a clear understanding of the preservation and artistic process.
Consultation Recommendation
- Before placing an order, we **highly recommend** that clients schedule a showroom appointment to view our work in person and discuss their design preferences.
- This consultation offers full disclosure of what clients can expect regarding the appearance, materials, and potential imperfections of their chosen displays.
Disclosure for Online Orders
- Clients who choose to place an order online without scheduling a showroom consultation acknowledge and accept full responsibility for their purchase decision.
- By ordering without viewing the showroom, clients waive the right to express dissatisfaction or surprise with the final product, as *Don’t Toss The Bouquet* provides ample opportunity to set clear expectations through in-person consultations and examples of completed work.
By scheduling an appointment and visiting our showroom, clients can make more informed decisions and ensure alignment between their expectations and the final product.
5. DISPLAY
- Proofs will be emailed for most displays. Clients must respond within one week of receiving proofs and address any follow-up questions within 48 hours. Failure to respond may result in the discontinuation of the process. Failure to respond within these directions will result in an extension of the timeline.
- Arrangements in premade boxes, ornaments, and smaller resin items are at the artist's discretion and do not undergo proofing.
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Shadow boxes are sealed, and hardware for hanging is not provided. DTTB is not liable for damage caused during hardware installation.
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Domes and display cubes are not sealed.
- Variations and imperfections may occur in frames, glass, or resin due to the nature of materials.
- Unused mementos will be returned. Boxes and vases left at DTTB will not be returned.
6. ITEMS SUBJECT TO PROOFING
Items That Will Be Proofed
The following items will receive a proofing process to ensure client approval before finalization:
Shadowboxes: 11x14 and 16x20 sizes. 16x20 Oval Bubble
Large Domes: All large dome displays.
Display Cubes: All glass display cubes.
Large Resin Items: All 12-inch, 10-inch, and 8-inch resin items.
Trays: All resin trays and charcuterie boards
Proofs for these items are sent via email, typically estimated around one year after the order date. Clients are expected to respond to proofs within one week and to all subsequent questions within 48 hours or timeline will extend.
Items That Will Not Be Proofed
The following items are not subject to the proofing process and will be finalized based on the artist's creative discretion:
-Smaller Items: Mini domes, pre-made boxes, and 5x7 mini boxes.
Premade boxes: 12x12, 10x10, and 8x8 sizes.
Ornaments: All ornament designs.
Resin Items under 8 inches: Including, but not limited to:
- Letters.
- Candles.
- Birds, animals, or figurines.
- Ring holders.
- Jewelry dishes.
By placing an order for any of the items listed above, clients acknowledge whether or not the item will go through the proofing process and accept the artist’s creative control for non-proofed items.
7. ORNAMENTS
- Ornaments are created at the artist's discretion and do not undergo proofing.
- Christmas completion is not guaranteed. Ornament orders cannot be expedited.
8. RESIN IMPERFECTIONS AND CARE
Resin is a complex, handmade medium that requires time, care, and attention. While every effort is made to create a high-quality product, resin pieces will naturally have some imperfections, and proper care is essential to maintain their longevity.
Imperfections
1. Bubbles:
- Small bubbles or micro-bubbles may be present within the resin as a natural part of the curing process.
2. Edge Imperfections:
- Slight irregularities or imperfections may appear on the edges of resin pieces.
3. Floating Natural Elements:
- Natural flower particles or elements may shift and float during the curing process.
4. Backing Imperfections:
- The back/bottom/side of resin pieces may have visible irregularities, as it is not the display-facing side.
Care and Handling
1. Delicate Nature:
- Resin is a delicate material that requires ample time to fully cure. Handle it with care to avoid damage.
2. Sunlight:
- Resin should be kept out of direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure can cause discoloration or ambering over time.
3. Cleaning:
- Be cautious when cleaning resin. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners that may damage the surface. *Don’t Toss The Bouquet* recommends a specific resin cleaner for proper maintenance.
4. Scratches:
- Resin can be scratched if not handled or stored carefully. Always handle with clean hands and store in a safe, scratch-free location.
By choosing resin displays, clients acknowledge and accept the nature of resin as a handmade and delicate medium. Proper care is essential to preserve the beauty and integrity of your resin piece over time.
9. DISPLAY DETAILS AND VARIATIONS
Gluing Process and Variations
- Items will be arranged and glued as closely as possible to the approved proof picture. However, some slight variations may occur during the gluing process due to the nature of floral preservation and design.
- While every effort is made to keep glue hidden, in some cases, glue may be minimally visible. Although a lot of glue is used for preservation, flower petals can still run the risk of dropping or shedding at the bottom of the displays.
Premade Boxes
- For premade boxes, flowers are arranged entirely according to the artist's preference and do not go through the proofing process. Clients should expect creative freedom in these designs.
Sealed Displays
- Shadow boxes and domes are sealed closed to preserve the arrangement and prevent tampering.
Hanging and Hardware
- Boxes can be hung; however, hardware is not provided.
- *Don’t Toss The Bouquet* is not responsible for any damage to the display caused during your hardware installation. Clients are advised to exercise caution and use appropriate tools and methods when installing hardware.
Frame and Glass Variations
- Due to the handmade nature of some frames, there may be slight variations or imperfections in the coloring, texture, or design.
- The glass used in displays may contain minor imperfections, which are a natural part of the manufacturing process.
Glass Display Cubes
- Glass display cubes are not sealed, allowing clients the flexibility to rearrange mementos or add personal touches to the display. Sealing of glass cubes can be requested upon order placement.
By acknowledging these terms, clients understand that slight imperfections in gluing, frames, or glass are inherent to the handmade and custom nature of floral preservation displays. These characteristics are part of what makes each piece unique and personalized.
10. ITEMS NOT RETURNED
The following items will not be returned to clients after the completion of services:
1. **Cardboard Boxes**: Any cardboard boxes or containers used to transport mementos or flowers will be discarded.
2. **Unused Flowers**: Flowers not included in the final display will not be returned, as pricing is based on the flowers preserved and included in the display.
3. **Vases**: Any vases provided with the flowers will not be returned and will be donated.
By agreeing to these terms, clients acknowledge and accept that these items will not be returned under any circumstances.
11. PICKUP
- Upon notification of completion, you must arrange pickup within one month.
- Items not claimed within one month of completion notice will be forfeited.
- The entire preservation process averages 12-18 months but may be delayed by natural disasters, supply issues, or other unforeseen circumstances.
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A $50 fee will apply for missed pickup appointments without 24-hour notice.
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A product liability form must be signed upon receiving the item.
12. SHIPPING
- DTTB does not ship items due to their delicate and irreplaceable nature.
13. CLIENT RESPONSIBILITIES AND ARTISTIC DISCRETION
By engaging DTTB, clients grant the company permission to make artistic decisions in the preservation and arrangement process. DTTB reserves the right to post images of all projects in progress or completed.
14. CLIENT EXPECTATIONS OF THE ARTIST
As a small, one-person business, *Don’t Toss The Bouquet* operates with certain limitations that clients should understand and respect:
1. Limited Contact During the Process:
- Communication is not continuous throughout the preservation process. Regular updates are not provided, as the artist focuses on completing each project with care and precision.
- Clients can expect to receive emails with proofs approximately one year after the dropoff date. Once proofs are distributed, communication will continue to address proof changes or finalizations.
2. No Response to Demands for Updates Outside the Timeline:
- Requests for updates that fall outside the stated timeline will not receive a response. The artist asks for understanding in adhering to the established process.
3. Respectful Communication:
- The artist will not respond to rude, hurtful, or angry communication. Clients are expected to communicate in a respectful and courteous manner at all times.
4. Personalized Service with Limitations:
- As a one-person business, the artist personally handles all aspects of the process. You meet with the artist, communicate directly with them, and receive her work. However, this setup also means there are inherent limitations in the speed and volume of work that can be completed.
- Clients are asked to extend the same grace and patience to the artist that the artist extends to them.
By engaging *Don’t Toss The Bouquet*, clients agree to these expectations and acknowledge the unique nature of working with a one-person business.
14b. VACATION AND TIME OFF
*Don’t Toss The Bouquet* (DTTB) operates as a **one-person business**, and as such, I, the owner and artist, manage all aspects of the business. Please note that I am also a parent and typically take vacation time around the school holiday calendar. During these times, there may be temporary delays in the processing or communication related to your order.
Key Points:
- Vacation Periods: Vacation time will usually align with school holidays, and I will do my best to notify clients in advance of any delays due to time off.
- Impact on Timeline: During vacation periods, the progress of preservation and communication may be delayed, but rest assured that all orders will be completed with the same level of care and attention.
- Communication: I will make every effort to communicate and provide updates on any potential delays ahead of time. Clients are encouraged to plan accordingly and allow for some flexibility during these periods.
- Social Media Updates: For generic updates and information about any delays or changes, I update my social media regularly. Clients are encouraged to follow along for any news and to stay informed about the status of the business.
We appreciate your understanding and patience as I balance both my business and family commitments, and we are grateful for your support.
15. TENTATIVE TIMELINE AND CONDITIONS THAT VOID THE TIMELINE
*Don’t Toss The Bouquet* operates on a tentative timeline to ensure the timely completion of your preserved floral display. However, certain conditions may void or extend this timeline:
Timeline Guidelines
1. Order Deadline:
- Clients must place their order within one month of their flower drop-off date.
- The timeline for proofs and completion is based on the official order date, not the drop-off date.
- If an order is not placed within the one-month deadline, the timeline is void.
2. Standard Proof Timeline:
- For orders placed on time, clients can expect to receive proofs approximately one year from the order date, depending on the type of display and project details.
Conditions That Void or Extend the Timeline
1. Late Orders:
- Orders placed after the one-month deadline from drop-off void the timeline entirely. Completion and proof timelines will no longer apply.
2. Slow or Lack of Response:
- Clients are expected to respond to proof emails within **one week** of receipt.
- Responses to all subsequent inquiries must be made within **48 hours**.
- Failure to respond within these timeframes will result in the extension of the standard timeline.
3. Proof Changes:
- If a client requests multiple proof changes or extensive color corrections, the timeline will be extended to accommodate these revisions.
4. Resin Pouring Issues:
- Resin is a delicate material, and occasional hiccups may occur during the pouring or curing process. Any such issues will require an extension of the timeline.
5. Display Changes:
- If a client requests a change in display size or style after the order is placed, the timeline will be extended to account for the new specifications.
6. Mementos for Proofs:
- If a client fails to bring required mementos for the proofs or needs to add additional mementos after proofs are in progress, the timeline will be extended accordingly.
Acknowledgment
By placing an order with *Don’t Toss The Bouquet*, clients agree to adhere to the stated deadlines and timelines. They also acknowledge that any changes, delays, or lack of timely communication caused by the above conditions will result in the extension or voiding of the original timeline. The artist reserves the right to prioritize projects based on compliance with these guidelines.
16. NO GUARANTEED DEADLINE DATE FOR COMPLETION
The floral preservation pieces created by *Don’t Toss The Bouquet* (DTTB) are **heirloom-quality creations** designed to preserve memories for years to come. Due to the meticulous, nature-driven process of preservation, **there is no guaranteed deadline** for completion, and pieces should not be expected to be ready for a specific holiday, event, or anniversary.
Key Points
- Process: The preservation process involves several stages, including freeze drying, reshaping, coloring, and building/customizing the display, which requires time and careful attention to detail.
- No Specific Deadline: Clients should not expect their pieces to be ready by a certain date or event. We work at the pace of nature and our craftsmanship, focusing on creating the best possible final product.
- Completion Timeline: While we strive to complete all orders efficiently, the timeline is ultimately based on the preservation process and availability of resources, not on arbitrary deadlines.
Clients are encouraged to treat these pieces as timeless heirlooms that will be delivered with the utmost care, at a pace that reflects the quality of the final product. We appreciate your understanding and patience.
17. EXCLUSIVE COMMUNICATION POLICY
To better serve our clients and ensure a streamlined communication process, *Don’t Toss The Bouquet* (DTTB) will exclusively engage with the **couple/owners of the bouquet** directly, without involvement from external parties such as parents, relatives, or other third parties. This policy update is designed to maintain clear, focused communication and ensure that our services align with the specific needs and preferences of the individuals directly responsible for the bouquet.
Key Points:
- Direct Communication: All consultations, discussions, and decision-making processes will be conducted exclusively between DTTB and the couple/owners of the bouquet.
- Privacy and Confidentiality: We respect the privacy of our clients and will not share any details or discussions with external parties unless explicitly authorized by the couple/owners.
- Service Excellence: By focusing solely on the preferences and vision of the couple/owners, we aim to enhance the quality and personalized nature of our services.
- No Updates for Parents/Relatives: DTTB will not provide updates to parents, relatives, or any external parties. All update requests will be directed to the couple/owners. Additionally, DTTB will not return calls or respond to requests for updates from anyone but the client.
This policy update reflects our commitment to providing exceptional service and ensuring a positive experience for every client. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding in adhering to this updated approach.
18. RETURN POLICY
At *Don’t Toss The Bouquet* (DTTB), we create one-of-a-kind, handmade floral preservation art pieces. As such, **we do not accept returns or exchanges** on any orders. By placing an order, you acknowledge and agree to the following:
Key Points:
- Handmade Nature of Products: All products are created with unique, handmade artistry, and clients agree to accept any natural intricacies, variations, or imperfections that may occur in the preservation process. This includes but is not limited to slight variations in color, texture, resin imperfections, and natural inconsistencies inherent to the medium and process.
- Approval upon Pickup: Once your order is complete and ready for pickup, you will have the opportunity to review the final product. **Upon pickup, you approve and accept the product** as it is, including any imperfections outlined in this contract.
- No Returns or Exchanges: Given the custom nature of each piece, all sales are final. We do not offer returns, exchanges, or refunds under any circumstances.
We value your understanding and trust in the artistry and craftsmanship behind each creation.
19. WEBSITE TERMS
By accessing the DTTB website, you agree to the following:
- You are responsible for reading all product listings before purchase.
- Prices may change at DTTB's discretion without prior notice.
- DTTB reserves the right to modify or terminate services at any time.
- All intellectual property on the website belongs exclusively to DTTB.
20. LIABILITY
To the extent permitted by law, DTTB is not liable for:
- Errors or inaccuracies in content.
- Personal injury or property damage resulting from service use.
- Unauthorized access to secure servers or personal information.
21. MODIFICATIONS TO TERMS
DTTB may modify these terms at any time. Material changes will be communicated to clients. Continued use of services after changes constitutes acceptance of the revised terms.
By using *Don’t Toss The Bouquet: Floral Preservation, Inc.* services, you acknowledge and agree to these terms and conditions.