Petal-mania: Florists keep pace with Mother's Day demand

Teresa Grant’s arms never stop moving. She assembles flowers, ties colorful ribbons, tucks and nudges blossoms into just the right place--all while answering constant calls for last second Mother’s Day bouquets.

“It starts on Monday,” said the owner of Sidney Floral & Gift Shop, “and we go all week.”

Although a survey by the National Retail Federation suggests that more moms will receive electronics for the big day this year, flowers--along with jewelry and dinner--still dominate the gift market.

The demand for floral arrangements is clear in the local market.

“We ordered a week ago to make sure we had what we needed,” explained Diana Strausser of House of Flowers. “We had to order more yesterday--and we’re getting low again.”

Americans will spend $2.3 billion on flowers this Mother’s Day, ahead of cards and clothing. More expensive items, such as jewelry and a night on the town, combine for almost $8 billion.

Local florists, point out, however, that outdoor plants, hanging baskets and novelty items like “edible” bouquets are also popular.

Surprisingly, the stately rose is not the first choice when it comes to Mother’s Day deliveries.

“We do a lot of everything,” Grant said.

At both Sidney Floral and House of Flowers, the phone rang constantly on Friday with last minute orders. Extra staff helped with shop duties and the arranging continued non stop.

“This is the big day,” Strausser said, shrugging off the volume of work.

Florists say that many people call uncertain of just what to order--and they appreciate the indecision.

“Say ‘make something pretty for mom,’” Grant urged. “That’s a really good thing.”