Detailed guide to flower delivery app development like Floward
June 24, 2025

Ever thought a simple bouquet could turn into a booming business?

Well, we do live in a world where convenience is currency. One tap, and your food’s on the way. Another, and your living room’s getting cleaned. From Urban Company to DoorDash, on-demand delivery apps have gone from luxury to a basic lifestyle.

And it’s not just about meals or household fixes anymore. One category has quietly found its way into people’s hearts and notifications, and that is an on-demand flower delivery app.

And, flowers aren’t just about aesthetics. They’re emotions. Apologies, celebrations, “I miss you” moments, because people are always looking for thoughtful ways to show up without physically being there. And apps like Floward have nailed that exact need. Beautiful arrangements. Easy ordering. Timely delivery. All wrapped in one seamless digital experience.

So here’s the big question:

If people can get dinner delivered in 30 minutes, why not feelings?

So, if you're a business leader or an entrepreneur-to-be, maybe it's time to ask, could flowers be your next breakthrough?

In this blog, we’re breaking down exactly how to go about on-demand flower delivery app development like Floward. From must-have features and development steps to cost estimates and the bigger picture, we’ve got you covered.

But first, what is an on-demand flower delivery app, Floward? 

floward

Floward has quietly become one of the go-to names when it comes to online flower and gift delivery. With its smooth interface and reliable service, it’s made sending love, from birthdays to just-because moments, as easy as ordering your favorite coffee.

So, what makes Floward click with customers?

Well, it lets people pre-order flowers, track their delivery in real-time, and rest easy knowing their gift will arrive on time. And for businesses, it offers a simple and clean dashboard to manage orders, create stunning arrangements, and keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes.

With the global flower gifting market growing steadily and anticipated to reach a valuation of around USD 91.54 billion by 2031, at 6.1% CAGR, there’s clearly a rising demand for meaningful, last-minute gestures made simple.

Gifting market

And that’s the real power of apps like Floward because they don’t just deliver flowers, they deliver convenience, privacy, and thoughtful experiences without the stress. Whether it’s a midnight surprise or a scheduled anniversary bouquet, users can count on the app to get it right.

So now that you’ve got a feel for what Floward does and why it works, let’s dive into what it takes to build something similar, starting with why you should consider building one, and then about the features your flower delivery app simply can’t go without.

Why build a Flower Delivery App in 2025?

Because the way people shop and express emotions is changing fast.

In 2025, convenience is no longer a luxury. It’s an expectation. Whether it's food, fashion, or flowers, customers want everything available at their fingertips and delivered to their doorstep.

Here’s why building a flower delivery app makes real sense now…

build a flower app

1. The demand is growing

The global flower gifting market is on a steady rise, with a growing number of people turning to online platforms for special occasions and last-minute gestures. From birthdays to apologies, flowers remain a timeless choice, and customers want a quick, hassle-free way to send them.

2. The industry is still catching up

While many industries have already seen massive tech adoption, the flower business is still playing catch-up. That means there’s a real gap and opportunity for digital-first brands to step in and offer a better, smarter experience.

3. Customization and personal touch sell

Modern users love personalizing their orders, like choosing flower types, adding notes, and picking delivery time slots. A well-built app makes all of this smooth, giving customers more control and an emotional connection to their purchase.

4. It builds recurring revenue

People don’t just buy flowers once a year. With reminders, subscriptions, and seasonal campaigns, a flower delivery app can turn occasional buyers into regular customers.

5. It’s scalable

Once the tech foundation is built, expanding to new cities, adding new products like gifts or chocolates, or onboarding more florists becomes a lot easier.

In short, building a flower delivery app in 2025 is a smart, scalable business move rooted in rising demand and shifting consumer behavior.

Advanced features you must consider during Flower Delivery App Development

While the basics like ordering, tracking, and delivery are essential, what sets a great flower delivery app apart are the smart features that make the experience more personal, intuitive, and sustainable. Here are some advanced features you should definitely consider…

1. Subscription Bouquets (Daily/Weekly Deliveries)

Not every flower order is tied to an occasion because some people just love having fresh flowers at home or in the office.

By offering daily or weekly subscription plans, you cater to this lifestyle segment. Customers can set their preferences once and receive curated bouquets at regular intervals. It also builds a steady revenue stream for your business, increases customer retention, and allows for predictable demand planning.

2. AI-Based Flower Suggestions Based on Recipient Profile

Everyone loves a personal touch, and this is where AI can do wonders.

By analyzing past orders, user preferences, and even recipient information (age, relationship, past gift history), your app can suggest highly relevant flower arrangements tailored to the occasion or personality. This doesn’t just improve user experience, it also increases order value and reduces decision fatigue for the buyer.

3. Occasion Reminders (Anniversaries, Birthdays, etc.)

Forgetfulness is a common reason people miss important dates, but your app can change that.

With an occasion reminder feature, users can store special dates and get timely notifications leading up to them. You can even auto-suggest bouquet options with limited-time discounts, helping users never miss a moment and driving more frequent purchases.

4. WhatsApp Integration for Order Updates

Instead of relying only on app notifications or emails, why not meet your users where they already are?

By integrating WhatsApp for real-time order updates, you provide customers with a seamless, familiar communication channel. Order confirmations, delivery status, and support queries all become more user-friendly and accessible, especially in regions where WhatsApp is widely used.

5. Eco-Friendly Filter (For Sustainable Gifting)

Sustainability is no longer optional because it’s a growing expectation from modern consumers.

With an eco-friendly filter, users can browse options that use locally sourced flowers, minimal packaging, or support zero-waste practices. Not only does this align with the values of environmentally-conscious buyers, but it also builds a stronger, purpose-driven brand image.

6. Build-Your-Own-Bouquet Tool

Give users the joy of creativity.

This feature allows them to select individual flowers, wrapping styles, ribbon colors, and even vases to build their own bouquet.
It adds a personal touch, increases emotional engagement, and encourages customers to spend more time and money on the platform.

7. Smart Delivery Scheduling

Not all deliveries are urgent. Some are meant to be surprises.

Smart delivery scheduling gives users the flexibility to choose from fixed delivery slots, schedule for a future date, or select “surprise me” windows where the bouquet arrives unexpectedly within a chosen time frame. This reduces delivery stress and enhances the gifting experience.

flower delivery app features

8. Live Order Tracking with Map View

Transparency is key.

Allowing users to track the delivery person on a live map gives them real-time visibility, builds trust, and keeps them engaged until the order is delivered.

9. In-App Greeting Card Customization

Sometimes, it’s the words that count.

Let users write personalized messages or even record voice notes or short videos to be sent with the bouquet. You can also offer pre-designed greeting card templates for birthdays, anniversaries, and other events.

10. Loyalty & Rewards Program

Turn one-time users into lifelong customers.

A rewards program where customers earn points for each purchase, referrals, reviews, or milestones helps boost retention. Points can be redeemed for discounts, exclusive bouquets, free delivery, or even early access to seasonal collections.

11. AR-Based Bouquet Preview

Help customers visualize their purchase before checking out.

Using Augmented Reality (AR) allows users to see how the bouquet would look on their dining table, office desk, or in their hands through their phone camera. This not only reduces hesitation but also builds excitement and confidence in their selection.

12. Multi-Vendor Support (Marketplace Model)

Scale your platform by onboarding multiple florists across different regions.

This feature turns your app into a marketplace, allowing users to browse from various sellers based on ratings, delivery speed, or specialty. It opens up a broader product catalog, supports local florists, and allows geographic expansion without owning every operation.

13. Voice Search Integration

Make searching effortless.

Voice search allows users to simply say things like “Find a bouquet for mom” or “Order red roses for tomorrow.” It’s intuitive, especially helpful for older users or those on the go, and adds a modern touch to your app.

14. Temperature-Controlled Delivery Alerts

Some premium bouquets (especially exotic flowers) are sensitive to heat and handling.

Offering temperature-controlled delivery and updating users that their flowers are being transported under ideal conditions can justify premium pricing and ensure product quality.

15. Gifting Bundles (Flowers + Add-ons)

Flowers and gifts go hand-in-hand.

Offer bundled packages that include chocolates, perfumes, candles, plush toys, or handwritten notes. This increases the average order value and makes the gifting experience feel more complete.

Bonus features to consider

  • AI Chatbot for Gift Suggestions – Helps undecided users with recommendations.
  • Same-Day Delivery with Timer Countdown – Shows a live countdown to place an order within a cut-off for same-day delivery.
  • Floral Care Tips Post-Delivery – Sends a short guide or video to the recipient on how to care for the flowers they received.
  • Corporate Gifting Dashboard – Allows companies to schedule and manage bulk flower deliveries for clients or employees.
  • Multi-Currency & Multi-Language Support – For apps looking to scale internationally.

These advanced features are designed to make your app more than just a delivery service. They turn it into an experience platform, one that understands the emotion behind each order, respects the user's time, and adds value beyond the bouquet.

By implementing these, you’re not just building an app, you’re building a brand customers will come back to. But, what if we can add something unique and fun for your users?

What would your zodiac sign want in a Flower Delivery App?

Because personalization isn't just about names, sometimes, it's written in the stars.

Modern customers want more than convenience, they want connection. And in 2025, apps that understand who their users are (not just what they click) will stand out. Imagine offering bouquet suggestions based not just on past behavior or preferences but on personality types.

So we asked ChatGPT:

What if your flower delivery app used zodiac traits to predict what users might love?

Here’s what that might look like…

zodiac sign

So why does this matter?

Because emotion sells. And when a flower delivery app blends logic with personality, it creates moments.

Bonus idea? Let users choose their zodiac sign at signup and get personalized recommendations tied to their personality and upcoming star-aligned events.

Cost breakdown of Flower Delivery App Development

The cost of developing a flower delivery app can vary significantly depending on the features, platform, design complexity, backend infrastructure, and location of your development team. Whether you're building a minimal app for a local florist or a feature-rich platform like Floward, understanding where your budget goes is crucial.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key components that influence the cost…

1. App Design (UI/UX)

Cost range: $3,000 – $15,000

Design plays a big role in user retention. A smooth, visually appealing interface makes ordering flowers a pleasant experience.

  • Basic: Simple layout, minimal color palette
  • Advanced: Personalized dashboards, branding integration
  • Complex: Animations, AR bouquet preview, high-fidelity designs

2. App Development (Frontend + Backend)

Cost range: $10,000 – $60,000

This includes the core coding of your app for Android, iOS, or cross-platform (Flutter, React Native). Backend development handles user data, order tracking, notifications, and integrations.

  • Basic: Core functionality (browse, order, track)
  • Advanced: Multi-platform, subscription logic, profile-based suggestions
  • Complex: Real-time tracking, AI integration, vendor dashboards

3. Features and Integrations

Cost range: $5,000 – $30,000

This includes third-party integrations like:

  • Payment gateways (Stripe, Razorpay, etc.)
  • WhatsApp notifications
  • Maps for tracking
  • Chat support
  • Push notifications

Complex apps may need AI modules, AR bouquet previews, voice search, or WhatsApp Business API setup.

4. Admin Panel Development

Cost range: $3,000 – $12,000

An admin panel is essential to manage orders, inventory, customer data, vendors, analytics, and marketing tools.

  • Basic: Order management and user database
  • Advanced: Customer insights, promo tools
  • Complex: Vendor onboarding, performance dashboards
flower app development

5. Testing and QA

Cost range: $2,000 – $10,000

Testing ensures your app works across devices and scenarios. It includes:

  • Functional testing
  • UI/UX testing
  • Performance testing
  • Bug fixes

6. Deployment & Hosting

Cost range: $1,000 – $5,000 (initial)

App Store/Play Store deployment, cloud hosting (AWS, Firebase), SSL certificates, domain setup, etc., are covered under this. Ongoing hosting charges may apply monthly.

7. Maintenance & Updates

Cost range: 15–20% of total dev cost annually

After launch, your app will need regular updates, new features, bug patches, and tech support. Budgeting for long-term app health is key to sustainability.

Cost estimation by App Complexity

Feature/Component Basic App Advanced App Complex App (Floward-like)
Design (UI/UX) $3,000 – $5,000 $7,000 – $10,000 $12,000 – $15,000
Frontend & Backend Development $10,000 – $15,000 $20,000 – $35,000 $40,000 – $60,000
Features & API Integrations $5,000 – $8,000 $10,000 – $18,000 $20,000 – $30,000
Admin Panel $3,000 – $5,000 $6,000 – $9,000 $10,000 – $12,000
Testing & QA $2,000 – $3,000 $4,000 – $6,000 $7,000 – $10,000
Deployment & Hosting $1,000 – $2,000 $2,000 – $3,000 $3,000 – $5,000
Total Estimated Cost $24,000 – $38,000 $49,000 – $81,000 $92,000 – $132,000

Tips to Optimize Development Costs

  • Start with an MVP (Minimum Viable Product): Build a lightweight version first, test the market, and then scale with advanced features.
  • Use cross-platform frameworks: Like Flutter or React Native, to reduce separate iOS/Android development costs.
  • Choose a flexible tech partner: A good development partner will help you build scalable architecture and avoid rework.

Building a flower delivery app, whether for a single florist shop or a nationwide platform, requires a strategic mix of smart budgeting and forward-looking tech decisions. Your actual costs will depend on the features you prioritize, the timeline, and whether you’re working with a freelancer, an in-house team, or an experienced flower app development partner like Antino.

Challenges in building a Flower Delivery App

While building a flower delivery app can open up a world of opportunities, it’s not without its challenges. Behind the elegant interface and smooth ordering experience are several moving parts that require careful planning, coordination, and execution.

Here are the most common challenges you’re likely to face and why solving them well can make all the difference.

1. Inventory Management & Freshness

Flowers are perishable. Unlike packaged goods, they have a very short shelf life and require careful handling. The challenge is to:

  • Manage real-time inventory across multiple florists or locations
  • Track which flowers are in stock, which are seasonal, and which need urgent clearance
  • Ensure freshness on delivery, which directly affects customer satisfaction

A strong backend system is crucial to monitor inventory and avoid overselling or waste.

2. Logistics and Timely Delivery

Timing is everything when it comes to gifting. Late deliveries can ruin the emotional impact of the gesture, especially during occasions like birthdays or anniversaries.

You’ll need to:

  • Coordinate delivery partners efficiently
  • Handle last-minute or same-day orders
  • Factor in traffic, weather, and delivery routes
  • Possibly invest in temperature-controlled transportation for long-distance or delicate flowers

3. Vendor Management (for Marketplace Models)

If you're building a platform with multiple florists, managing vendors becomes another layer of complexity.

Challenges include:

  • Onboarding reliable sellers
  • Maintaining consistent product quality
  • Managing pricing, commissions, and payouts
  • Ensuring timely preparation and dispatch of orders

You’ll need a well-designed vendor dashboard and quality control measures to keep the customer experience consistent.

4. Customization Complexity

Many customers want to personalize their orders like choose flowers, add notes, select wrapping styles, etc.

But that level of flexibility also brings complexity:

  • The app must support dynamic bouquet building
  • Handle pricing updates in real time
  • Show only available flowers based on inventory and region
  • Keep the ordering process intuitive, not overwhelming

Striking the right balance between personalization and simplicity is key.

challenges in delivery app

5. Handling Seasonal Spikes

Flower delivery apps see major demand surges during festivals, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, and wedding seasons.

This puts pressure on:

  • Inventory and supply chain
  • Delivery capacity
  • Customer support teams
  • App infrastructure (can it handle the load?)

Without proper planning, these surges can result in delayed orders, app crashes, or bad reviews.

6. Building a User-Friendly Experience

Even with powerful features, users will drop off if the app is hard to use.

Common UX challenges include:

  • Over-complicated checkout process
  • Slow loading times
  • Inconsistent design between platforms
  • Lack of accessibility for older or less tech-savvy users

Investing in UI/UX testing and continuous feedback can help refine the experience.

7. Payment Integration & Security

Since you’re handling real-time transactions, users expect smooth and secure payments.

Issues you’ll need to solve:

  • Support for multiple payment methods (cards, UPI, wallets, etc.)
  • Secure handling of user data (PCI compliance)
  • Instant refunds for failed or canceled orders
  • Fraud prevention mechanisms

8. Scalability & Maintenance

As your user base grows, the app must scale, without crashing or slowing down.

You’ll need to:

  • Build a robust backend architecture
  • Plan for regular updates and bug fixes
  • Maintain high performance during peak traffic
  • Monitor analytics and adjust features based on real-world usage

9. Customer Support & Order Issues

Even with the best systems in place, things can go wrong, like the wrong address, delayed delivery, or wilted flowers.

You’ll need:

  • A quick and responsive support team
  • In-app chat or call options
  • Order tracking and complaint management tools
  • A process for easy refunds or replacements

Yes, there are challenges in building a flower delivery app, but each one is solvable with the right tech stack, business logic, and execution strategy. And if done well? You’re not just delivering flowers. You’re delivering trust, convenience, and emotional connection.

How can Antino help you build a Flower Delivery App like Floward?

We’ve all seen how demand-driven flower delivery is blooming, quite literally. With customer preferences shifting firmly towards convenience, building a mobile app that works seamlessly across both iOS and Android platforms has become a strategic necessity. Today’s consumers are ordering, customizing, and expecting real-time delivery with just a few taps.

Having a dedicated flower delivery app allows your business to tap into a wider customer base, streamline orders, and significantly boost both sales and brand recall. In a competitive landscape dominated by on-demand services, your mobile app can be the differentiator that sets you apart.

At Antino, we bring business ideas to life. With a strong focus on innovation and user experience, we help florists, event planners, and gifting brands create digital platforms that are scalable, intuitive, and performance-driven. So, ready to take your flower delivery business to the next level?

Partner with Antino and let’s build a mobile app your customers will keep coming back to.

AUTHOR
Vartika Mangal
(AVP- Technology, Antino)
With over 5 years of expertise in Flutter App Development, Vartika has been instrumental in leading a team of over twenty professionals. Her proficiency encompasses Dart, Flutter, Firebase, Android native, JavaScript, Node.js, and SQL servers