Florists Tackle Last-Minute Valentine’s Orders Amid Rising Costs
As Valentine’s Day approaches, florists in the D.C. region are busier than ever, grappling with a surge in last-minute orders. Many flower shops are working tirelessly to meet the demands of customers who often wait until the last moment to purchase their arrangements.
Valentine’s Day Orders Surge
At Chevy Chase Florist in Chevy Chase, Maryland, owner Christine Topacio reported that her team is preparing for extended hours as demand increases. “It’s been busy!” she remarked, noting that typically, orders ramp up immediately after the Super Bowl.
Topacio indicated that they anticipate sending out over 600 flower arrangements by Valentine’s Day. The shop employs both full-time staff and temporary workers to handle this influx. However, managing deliveries poses additional challenges during this hectic season.
Logistics and Delivery Challenges
- Deliveries require careful planning to ensure timeliness.
- Adverse weather conditions, such as ice and snow, complicate logistics.
- Keeping flowers fresh is a critical aspect of their service.
Topacio advised customers to change the water in their vases regularly. “Change the water when it looks cloudy, and give the stems a fresh cut,” she suggested. This practice helps prolong the life of the flowers.
Rising Costs and Tariffs
Florists are also facing economic pressures this season. The costs of imported flowers, especially roses from Ecuador and Colombia, have risen due to tariffs. “All of our items have been impacted,” Topacio explained. As a result, flower shops are adjusting their pricing to cover the increase in expenses.
Last-Minute Shoppers
Despite the price hikes, many customers still wait until the final days to place their orders. Topacio frequently encounters flustered shoppers, often with urgent stories about forgetting to order flowers. “Our policy is to help whenever we can,” she added.
“Flowers have a significant impact on people’s moods and spread joy,” Topacio emphasized. The emotional connection that comes with giving flowers motivates her team during this demanding time.
For those planning to order for Valentine’s Day, she urges early placement of orders. “The sooner you can get those orders in, the better,” she advised. This approach not only helps florists manage their workload but also ensures customers can send love on this special day.
Despite the challenges, florists are dedicated to keeping relationships vibrant and full of joy through their beautiful arrangements.
