Southwest Florida florists recommend shopping early for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and some flower shops in Southwest Florida face a supply chain shortage that impacts their ability to prepare flower arrangements.

One Southwest Florida flower shop is also coping with a driver shortage. They are relying on family and friends to make deliveries.

It is not all doom and gloom, though, you still have time to order those flowers.

Valentine’s Day is the biggest day of the year for florists.

Fort Myers Florist Floral Designer Kim Secino said, “it’s a lot of work in a short amount of time.”

“It is busier this year than it was last year. And last year was a record year for us,” said Jean Marie Rakich, the general manager of Fort Myers Florist.

Valentine’s Day falls on a Monday this year, and the orders keep coming.

Fort Myers Florist would love to have some extra hands to answer the phones and arrange the bouquets, but Rakich said help is hard to find.

“We had so many interviews for people that never even showed up for the interviews. And then we hired a few people, and they didn’t even show up for work.”

Rakich asked her family and friends to help.

Jessica Gnagey, co-owner of Ruth Messmer Florist, said the supply chain issues have not impacted her business too much yet.

“It’s just been a little bit more difficult to get items roses, especially from South America,” said Gnagey.

Roses are the biggest Valentine’s Day seller.

Gnagey said, “we can very easily be wiped out of red roses. So as of right now, I have some. By Saturday, Sunday, Monday, will I have enough available I don’t know.”

If you are waiting until the last minute, florists’ best advice is to shop around.

Rakich said, “for flowers, it has not affected us whatsoever. We’re pretty full on everything that we have.”

Both Rakich and Gnagey said the earlier you get your orders in, the better.

They will be able to handle last-minute calls on Valentine’s Day. There just might be less to choose from.