Valentine’s Day is the second busiest sales season of the year at Roadside Blooms with Mother’s Day being first. We see it all during this holiday — from couples exchanging symbols of romantic love and parents giving their children of all ages something to show they care to friends exchanging gifts of gratitude. Even if Valentine’s Day is a “Hallmark holiday,” it still brings a considerable amount of joy. So why not lean in?
Here are some tips to help you make thoughtful choices this holiday for your loved ones.
Choose a florist committed to ethical and sustainable business practices
Did you know that more than 80% of all flowers used in America for anything from funerals to weddings are imported from other countries that have little to no labor or environmental laws? The global floral trade can be toxic for workers, local economies and the land in which they are grown. When choosing a florist, research its business practices. Does it source American and locally grown flowers and greens? Does it compost its weekly mounds of floral waste? Your money spent on this holiday (and year-round) should align with your values.
Friends don’t let friends
dial 1-800-Flowers
Don’t use 1-800-Flowers or those types of wire services. Too often, these companies gouge florists who are members of their network to fulfill orders. Those affiliates take a considerable percentage of sales and after time, most florists ditch their memberships. Instead, order directly from the flower shop and cut out the middleman. You’ll get better customer service, a better product, and you’ll be supporting your local florist.
Ditch the dozen roses
Contrary to popular belief, women don’t like receiving a dozen roses. Most women would agree that they are cheesy and a bit overplayed on Valentine’s Day — especially when they know there are much better and more creative floral options out there. We never offer a dozen roses because there’s just no creativity in the design and, frankly, there are much prettier flowers than standard roses.
No matter where you order from, always ask for what “Designer’s Choice,” which allows the designer to pick the prettiest blooms. At Roadside Blooms, we only do designer’s choice because it gives us creative freedom which 100% of the time leads to a more beautiful and unique arrangement. It also feeds the creative hearts of the designer which fuels innovation and workplace happiness.
Men deserve flowers, too
I’ve written about this before and I stand by my claim that it’s a damned shame that most men receive their first gift of flowers at their funeral. It’s time to change the outdated narrative that flowers are not for men. Not only do men deserve to enjoy the earth’s bounty, but they also deserve to be appreciated and loved. Studies have shown that men that receive flowers are more open and communicative; they feel safe and seen by their partners.
Don’t be anonymous
In this day and age, it’s not cute or romantic to send anonymous gifts. It’s downright creepy. Instead, write a short but meaningful message that will make the recipient’s heart swell.
Remember that gift-giving is for the sender too. It feels good to be able to express admiration for someone no matter how you choose to show it this Valentine’s Day.
Toni Reale is the owner of Roadside Blooms,
a unique plant, flower, crystal and fossil shop
in Park Circle in North Charleston.
roadsidebloomsshop.com
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