Common Questions
General FAQ
What is Bloomvy?
- Bloomvy is an online platform that connects private garden owners with guests seeking unique outdoor experiences. Our mission is to bring together those who create, cherish, and find inspiration in the beauty of gardens and outdoor spaces.
What is Bloomvy's change / cancellation policy?
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If you need to modify a booking, we encourage guests and hosts to message each other directly to make changes and avoid cancellation. Bookings can be rescheduled if both parties mutually agree.
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Hosts choose their own cancellation policies, which are displayed on their listing. Hosts choose from one of three options:
- Flexible: Cancel 3+ hours before booking start time for a full refund; no refund after.
- Standard: Cancel 3+ days before booking start time for a full refund; no refund after.
- Advance Notice: Cancel 14+ days before booking start time for a full refund; no refund after.
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If a booking is cancelled and qualifies for a full refund, the original payment including service fees will be returned. However, initial payment processing fees are non-refundable. Please note that partial refunds are not currently supported. If the host cancels a transaction, the guest is entitled to a full refund.
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Please note that cancellations are final. To cancel a booking, contact us at support@bloomvy.com
How does Bloomvy make money?
- It's completely free to list and we only make money when you do. Bloomvy collects a 10% service fee from both guest and host on each booking. This fee helps cover the platform's operating costs and ensures we can provide ongoing support to our users. The fee is automatically deducted from each payout.
Is Bloomvy safe to use?
- Your safety is our top priority. Every guest must agree to Bloomvy’s Terms of Service and follow the rules set by each host. To learn more about how we promote a secure and respectful community, visit our Trust & Safety page.
Host FAQ
How much control do I have as a host?
- You have full control over who visits. You can set the number of guests allowed, specify when they can come, outline permitted activities, and define which areas they can access. Before accepting a booking request, you can communicate with guests to ask questions or share expectations. You have the final say and can approve or decline any request.
Do I need to be present when guests arrive?
- No, hosts do not need to be on-site. You can share access details, arrival instructions, and usage rules in your listing, allowing guests to enjoy your garden independently.
How do I set a price for my garden?
- Every garden is unique and no one knows yours better than you. That’s why you decide how much to charge guests for visits. As a general guide, outdoor venues such as botanical gardens, parks, arboretums, and farms typically charge $50–$150 per photo session. For a garden tour, admission price is typically $10 per person.
- The pricing for different guest activities is set under Pricing / Variation in the listing setup.
- We recommend exploring similar spaces in your area to help benchmark your pricing. If you’re unsure where to start, just get in touch with us and we'll help you set a rate that reflects your garden's value.
How do I get paid?
- When you register, you'll be prompted to provide your payout details through our secure website. Our trusted third-party processor, Stripe, will handle your account information. Bloomvy does not store or maintain any financial data. After a visit is completed, Bloomvy will initiate the transfer of funds to your account. Please note that it might take up to 7 days for the money to reach your bank account.
Is there liability risk to hosting?
- All guests are required to agree to Bloomvy's Waiver and Release before visiting. This agreement clearly states that hosts are not liable for any injuries, property damage, or other incidents that may occur during a visit. It also includes an indemnification clause to help protect hosts from potential legal claims. Please note that Bloomvy does not provide insurance coverage for hosts or guests. We encourage both parties to have their own appropriate insurance to ensure they’re properly covered during any visit.
What if I don’t see a feature or activity I want to include in my listing?
- If a specific feature or activity isn’t listed as a preset option, please contact us at support@bloomvy.com. We’re happy to assist and can help add it to your listing.
Guest FAQ
What if I need to cancel my booking?
- We know that sometimes plans don’t go as expected. If your booking request has not yet been approved by the host, you may cancel it at any time, and the associated charge will be voided. Please note that the charge may be held for up to six days while the request is pending; if the host does not respond within that time, the request will automatically expire and the charge will be released.
- If your booking has already been accepted, please review the host’s cancellation policy to determine whether you are eligible for a refund. We strongly recommend reviewing the cancellation policy before submitting a booking request so you know what to expect if your plans change.
- To cancel an existing booking, email us at support@bloomvy.com with your booking details.
What should I do if I submitted a booking request and haven’t heard back from the host?
- If you haven’t received a response, you can send a follow-up message to the host through the platform. Booking requests automatically expire if not accepted within six days. If you no longer wish to move forward with the booking, you can cancel your request at any time by contacting us.
What should I know about parking and check-in?
- Guests should follow the host's parking and access instructions. If you have any questions about accessibility or potential challenges with terrain, steps, or surfaces (such as for wheelchairs or strollers), we recommend checking with the host in advance.
What rules apply during my visit?
- Guests must be considerate of the host's property and follow any special instructions provided by the host. Unless permitted, avoid bringing food, drinks, litter, or smoking. If food and drink are allowed, carry out all trash and recyclables. Stay on designated paths and do not disturb the garden. Children must be supervised at all times. Drones are prohibited. Please respect the privacy of any houses on the property by keeping a respectful distance.
What do I need to know for photography?
- Photographs and video for personal use are allowed. Please contact the host for any other use. Walking in planted areas or placing objects in them is prohibited. Plants may not be moved, cut, or damaged.
Can I bring pets?
- Listings will specify whether pets are allowed. If they are, be sure to keep your pet on a leash and clean up after them as needed.
What activities are allowed? Can I host an event?
- Permitted activities can be found in the listing description. For special requests or event inquiries, you can message the host directly.