A fresh, well-arranged bouquet of flowers is more than just a gift. It’s a vibrant, nearly living thing, offering color, scent and a graceful shape. The staff at French Florist understands this very well, and also understands the virtue of offering supremely fresh and well-chosen flowers at a reasonable price. This constantly buzzing Pico-Robertson institution offers beautiful orchids, the best roses from Ecuador and stately hydrangeas yet still offers crisp, attractive daisies at only 99 cents apiece. The shop is known for its delivery service covering all of greater L.A. Visitors may notice a perpetual flurry of activity — employees preparing elegant bouquets like an industrious pack of Christmas elves.

8658 W. Pico Blvd., Pico-Robertson, 90035. (310) 659-7700, frenchflorist.com.