REDDING, Calif. — As Valentine’s Day approaches, Americans are expected to spend more than ever, and local florists say they’re working to keep love affordable even as flower prices rise.
Valentine’s Day spending is projected to hit a record high of $29.1 billion this year in the United States, according to the National Retail Federation. That would be an increase from last year’s $27.5 billion.
In Redding, Charity Fields, owner of Redding Florist, said rose prices typically surge in February.
“Roses go from everyday, which is $5 a stem, to $9 a stem, and then week of, if we are ordering roses, they go up to $10 a stem,” Fields said.
Fields and Floranthropist owner Katie Walden said they try to offer options for customers on a budget, even as costs climb.
“I always feel bad having to price them at what they are because they are expensive, so we really do try to put a budget option in there,” Walden said.
Walden said her shop also tries to meet customers where they are when it comes to price.
“If somebody comes in and says I want a bud vase for like $15 we’ll take care of you. We want everyone to be able to get what they want and need,” she said.
Florists said last-minute shoppers are common. This year, with Valentine’s Day falling on a three-day weekend, there were concerns that sales could dip. However, Fields said so far it hasn’t.
With rising costs pushing prices higher, florists said they’re trying to provide more affordable alternatives. Fields pointed to carnations as a lower-cost option.
“Carnations are going to be your most budget-friendly. They come in all different colors,” Fields said.
Redding Florist provides carnations in a dozen, noting they last the longest.
Local florists also emphasized the importance of shopping local, saying it makes a big difference for small businesses.
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