New Buyer FAQ
What is The Twin Cities Flower Exchange (AKA The Exchange/TCFE)?
The Exchange, founded in 2017 by Christine Hoffman, is a 100% locally-grown and chemical-free wholesale cut flower market. The Exchange stocks a wide range of cut flowers and flora from 20+ small flower farms in Minnesota and Wisconsin. The Exchange supplies wholesale flowers and flora ONLY to professionals for use in their businesses. A current buyer’s pass is required to shop with The Exchange.
How do I become a buyer?
To shop The Exchange, you must complete a buyer’s pass application, meet the qualifications, and be approved as a buyer. To qualify, a business must regularly use flowers as an integral part of their business, and a valid state tax ID or EIN must be submitted. The Buyer’s Pass yearly fee is $100 and allows access to all TCFE Buyer resources. The Exchange is committed to maintaining a wholesale only model.
The Exchange is committed to maintaining a wholesale only model to help floral professionals and business owners thrive. Instead of paying a higher price on every stem you buy throughout the season, this once-a-year fee helps offset operating costs, keep prices friendly, and fairly compensate TCFE partner farms. It is much appreciated that buyers are willing to invest this small amount to ensure the overall success of TCFE, partner farms, and our small business and floral community.
Why do you require
a Buyer’s Pass?
May I place pre-orders?
The Exchange has 2 ways to pre-order product.
Future orders: At any time, registered buyers may submit a custom order via the TCFE online SHOP and enjoy a custom Christine pull!
Online orders for the following week: The TCFE online SHOP is updated every Thursday for the following week. Items may be reserved for pick-up or delivery.
Once any type of order is placed, the buyer is financially responsible for the order.
How, when & where do I shop?
Our weekly in-person market is fully stocked and ready to shop. Even if you have a pre-order, it is wise to leave a little time and budget to pick up your perfect market selections and surprise arrivals. The market floor is a great place to find inspiration, learn about new-to-you local flowers, and maybe meet a new floral friend.
Our in-person shopping AND order pick-up hours are:
Wednesday and Thursday | 7 AM to 1 PM
We are located at 341 Wilson St NE Minneapolis MN 55413.
Buyers must supply their own buckets for transporting purchases in water.
If you do not have buckets, we will wrap or box your items.
What if I am unhappy with a product?
We absolutely stand by the quality of our product! Buyers are responsible for proper care of product once purchased, but if there is a pre-purchase quality issue, the product may be refunded within 24 hours of purchase. Please email credit requests to shop@tcflowerexchange.com, including pictures and a detailed explanation of the quality issue.