Elton John vs Florist

[CHR]

Don't know how many folks have seen the press about a supposed flower order for Elton John's dressing room for an upcoming concert...

Elton's flower power row

Florist David Shires said the singer, who once admitted spending more than £10,000 a month on flowers, wanted red and white roses on display in his dressing room when he performs in Bournemouth on Saturday.

The florist is quoted as saying his instructions were specific and that all foliage was to be removed from the flowers. Several articles portrayed Elton as being somewhat 'picky'. It's totally possible that the original reporter misinterpreted or misquoted the florist's remarks and then the story began spinning out of control.

Sounds like Elton's PR team is denying flowers ever being ordered. Elton John slams floral falsehoods.

Looks like a case of a proud florist contacting the press to generate good buzz in advance of the concert - only to have the story blow up in his face.

Is this a case of 'bad PR is better than no PR' for the flower shop since it has generated a lot of press in the UK? What would you recommend this shop do now?

If you had a large order for or from a celebrity, would you call the local newspaper and talk about it in advance of the event?

Enquiring minds want to know.

 

[BOSS]

If you had a large order for or from a celebrity, would you call the local newspaper and talk about it in advance of the event?

Enquiring minds want to know.

Nope, I'd hope the "press" would include me in the notices...however, that being unlikely, it would then become a word of mouth thing after the fact.

 

[Pandalou]

I wouldn't tell the press. I agree with BOSS, I would hope to be included in the press. Wow, I bet he wished he never made that phone call.

 

[Sher]

Trusting the press to get it right is worse than dealing with a ws...We have delivered to several "names" and keep pretty quiet about it. Usually they come from their agents or a minion and they have asked that we not tell anyone so I'd err on the safe side I think. Also maybe asking for a release for use after the fact....probably not using the correct term but if you want to use a photo and tell that it was for so-and-so...I'd cover myself with a signed release from the person that ordered it...jmho

 

[Victoria]

Have delivered to many "names" as well. They trust us to be discreet. No press... no adverts... that's why the "names" will continue to use those who protect their privacy.

V

 

[virginia_Bob]

We have only delivered for a couple of "names" but when we do we treat it just like any other customer. PRIVATE and confidential. If we get a mention great if we don't well we will probably at least get another good order.