{"id":16025,"date":"2025-11-26T22:56:01","date_gmt":"2025-11-26T22:56:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/?p=16025"},"modified":"2025-11-26T22:56:01","modified_gmt":"2025-11-26T22:56:01","slug":"valentines-day-prep-for-florists-3-industry-pros-share-their-best-advice","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/2025\/11\/valentines-day-prep-for-florists-3-industry-pros-share-their-best-advice\/","title":{"rendered":"Valentine\u2019s Day Prep for Florists: 3 Industry Pros Share Their Best Advice"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every year, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/seasonal\/valentine-s-day?utm_campaign=2025_vdayprep_112625&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_source=vessel.com&amp;utm_content=vdaycollection\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Valentine\u2019s Day<\/a> brings a surge of demand for florists, often becoming the busiest and most important sales day on the calendar. But a successful Valentine\u2019s Day doesn\u2019t happen overnight. From planning trending floral designs and pricing to staffing strategically, securing <a href=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/seasonal\/valentine-s-day?utm_campaign=2025_vdayprep_112625&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_source=vessel.com&amp;utm_content=vdaycollection\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">wholesale hard goods<\/a>, and keeping energy and morale high, seasoned floral pros know that real success comes from preparation that starts months in advance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"464\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/FW25_SPH0112_marketing_banner_vessel_crop-1-1024x464.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16028 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/FW25_SPH0112_marketing_banner_vessel_crop-1-1024x464.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/FW25_SPH0112_marketing_banner_vessel_crop-1-300x136.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/FW25_SPH0112_marketing_banner_vessel_crop-1-768x348.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/FW25_SPH0112_marketing_banner_vessel_crop-1-1536x696.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/FW25_SPH0112_marketing_banner_vessel_crop-1-2048x927.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/FW25_SPH0112_marketing_banner_vessel_crop-1-1170x530.jpg 1170w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/FW25_SPH0112_marketing_banner_vessel_crop-1-740x335.jpg 740w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/464;\" \/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"464\" src=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/FW25_SPH0112_marketing_banner_vessel_crop-1-1024x464.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16028\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/FW25_SPH0112_marketing_banner_vessel_crop-1-1024x464.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/FW25_SPH0112_marketing_banner_vessel_crop-1-300x136.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/FW25_SPH0112_marketing_banner_vessel_crop-1-768x348.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/FW25_SPH0112_marketing_banner_vessel_crop-1-1536x696.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/FW25_SPH0112_marketing_banner_vessel_crop-1-2048x927.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/FW25_SPH0112_marketing_banner_vessel_crop-1-1170x530.jpg 1170w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/FW25_SPH0112_marketing_banner_vessel_crop-1-740x335.jpg 740w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br>We connected with three industry professionals who run thriving floral businesses year-round. They\u2019re sharing their top tips, practical strategies, and trusted advice to help floral designers and shop owners, especially those newer to the industry, prepare for a smooth and successful Valentine\u2019s Day in 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How far in advance do you start planning for Valentine\u2019s Day each year?<\/strong><br><br><strong>SAM BOWLES, General Manager &amp; Creative Director, of <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.allensflowers.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\"><strong>Allen\u2019s Flowers and Plants<\/strong><\/a><strong>, says\u2026<\/strong><br><br>\u201cWe start planning the following year\u2019s Valentine\u2019s Day while we\u2019re still in the thick of the current one. Our managers document the entire process with detailed notes, and we regroup afterward to review everything while it\u2019s still fresh.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/galloway_180601_0731_web-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"The interior of a floral design studio featuring stocked shelves with vases, fresh floral bouquets and a man at the counter.\" class=\"wp-image-16032 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/galloway_180601_0731_web-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/galloway_180601_0731_web-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/galloway_180601_0731_web-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/galloway_180601_0731_web-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/galloway_180601_0731_web-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/galloway_180601_0731_web-740x493.jpg 740w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/galloway_180601_0731_web.jpg 2000w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/682;\" \/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/galloway_180601_0731_web-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"The interior of a floral design studio featuring stocked shelves with vases, fresh floral bouquets and a man at the counter.\" class=\"wp-image-16032\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/galloway_180601_0731_web-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/galloway_180601_0731_web-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/galloway_180601_0731_web-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/galloway_180601_0731_web-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/galloway_180601_0731_web-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/galloway_180601_0731_web-740x493.jpg 740w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/galloway_180601_0731_web.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br><strong>CAMERON PAPPAS, Owner, of <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nortonsflorist.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\"><strong>Norton\u2019s Florist, Events &amp; Gift Baskets<\/strong><\/a><strong>, says\u2026<\/strong><br><br>\u201cWe begin prepping for the next Valentine\u2019s Day on February 15. Each year, we capture as much as we can while the experience is still fresh &#8211; what worked well, what didn\u2019t, and where we can improve. Then we take a moment to breathe and celebrate making it through the holiday. Our goal is to have our Valentine\u2019s collections finalized before the end of November, since that\u2019s when we shift into <a href=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/seasonal\/christmas?utm_campaign=2025_vdayprep_112625&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_source=vessel.com&amp;utm_content=christmas\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Christmas<\/a>. It also allows us to take advantage of early pre-books and secure the best possible pricing.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/IMG_6106-1024x768.jpeg\" alt=\"The exterior of a floral design studio with a smiling man at the entrance.\" class=\"wp-image-16033 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/IMG_6106-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/IMG_6106-300x225.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/IMG_6106-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/IMG_6106-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/IMG_6106-1170x878.jpeg 1170w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/IMG_6106-740x555.jpeg 740w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/IMG_6106.jpeg 2000w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/768;\" \/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/IMG_6106-1024x768.jpeg\" alt=\"The exterior of a floral design studio with a smiling man at the entrance.\" class=\"wp-image-16033\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/IMG_6106-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/IMG_6106-300x225.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/IMG_6106-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/IMG_6106-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/IMG_6106-1170x878.jpeg 1170w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/IMG_6106-740x555.jpeg 740w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/IMG_6106.jpeg 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br><strong>Brooke Wetzel, Founder and Lead Designer, of <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/theplumdahlia.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\"><strong>The Plum Dahlia<\/strong><\/a><strong>, says\u2026<\/strong><br><br>\u201cI\u2019m always open to inspiration year-round, but I usually start to feel the pressure to prepare around Halloween. That\u2019s when I begin setting price points and paying close attention to shifts in the flower industry, as well as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/seasonal\/valentine-s-day?utm_campaign=2025_vdayprep_112625&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_source=vessel.com&amp;utm_content=vdaycollection\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">new vases<\/a> and emerging trends.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"495\" height=\"640\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Unknown.jpeg\" alt=\"A floral designer beside a bouquet of fresh florals. \" class=\"wp-image-16034 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Unknown.jpeg 495w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Unknown-232x300.jpeg 232w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 495px) 100vw, 495px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 495px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 495\/640;\" \/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"495\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Unknown.jpeg\" alt=\"A floral designer beside a bouquet of fresh florals. \" class=\"wp-image-16034\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Unknown.jpeg 495w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Unknown-232x300.jpeg 232w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 495px) 100vw, 495px\" \/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br><strong>What\u2019s your go-to strategy for sourcing flowers, vases, or hard goods during this busy season?<\/strong><br><br><strong>SAM:<\/strong> \u201cAt the busy holidays we rely on the same partners who help us year-round, from hardgoods suppliers to farms and wholesalers. \u00a0We place our large orders as early as possible and bring in hard goods early.\u201d<br><br><strong>CAMERON:<\/strong> \u201cNorton\u2019s is large enough to buy florals direct from Miami, and I\u2019ve recently begun sourcing some product from South America as well. The most important thing we can do is place our flower orders early to increase the chances of receiving everything we need. The same goes for seasonal decor and hard goods &#8211; the earlier, the better. Any specialty containers we plan to use are ordered as soon as we finalize our designs. Once they arrive, we label the boxes and \u2018hide\u2019 them in the warehouse to keep them safe until the holiday.\u201d<br><br><strong>BROOKE:<\/strong> \u201cStart early! During the holiday season, I begin picking up <a href=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/seasonal\/valentine-s-day?utm_campaign=2025_vdayprep_112625&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_source=vessel.com&amp;utm_content=vdaycollection\">vases<\/a> and hard goods in red or metallic finishes that can double for Valentine\u2019s or anything with a romantic or dramatic feel. It\u2019s also the perfect time to grab special ribbons, like velvet or stripes, on clearance. Valentine\u2019s product usually starts trickling in around December, and I\u2019ll snag the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/seasonal\/valentine-s-day?utm_campaign=2025_vdayprep_112625&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_source=vessel.com&amp;utm_content=vdaycollection\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">vases<\/a> that catch my attention and build my theme around my favorite new pieces.<br><br>Once I\u2019ve settled on my style or theme, I start checking flower pricing trends by the second week of January. I preorder my tried-and-true staples (roses, ranunculus, and peonies) and then choose one or two special stems that are trending or make a simple design feel more custom. Last year, I ordered 100 peach anthurium and took a chance that customers would be open to peach and hot pink alongside traditional reds. It was a hit and an easy add!<br><br>I also like to spread my ordering across two to three wholesalers so if something goes wrong, I\u2019m not stuck. Thankfully, being in L.A. gives me access to one of the largest, most convenient flower markets in the country. I start conversations with my vendors in January to gauge pricing and availability, and by the end of the month, I\u2019m requesting holds and setting aside specific colors for pickup.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/pinkstriped_1_-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Pink and red striped vases filled with striking florals and small, green plants. \" class=\"wp-image-16036 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/pinkstriped_1_-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/pinkstriped_1_-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/pinkstriped_1_-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/pinkstriped_1_-740x1110.jpg 740w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/pinkstriped_1_.jpg 800w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 683px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 683\/1024;\" \/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/pinkstriped_1_-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Pink and red striped vases filled with striking florals and small, green plants. \" class=\"wp-image-16036\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/pinkstriped_1_-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/pinkstriped_1_-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/pinkstriped_1_-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/pinkstriped_1_-740x1110.jpg 740w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/pinkstriped_1_.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br><strong>Any tips for keeping staff motivated and energized during the Valentine\u2019s rush?<\/strong><br><br><strong>SAM:<\/strong> \u201cI find it really motivating to be transparent about goals and to celebrate them as a team. It\u2019s far more effective to say, \u2018Let\u2019s work together to finish these 50 arrangements in the next few hours,\u2019 and then acknowledge that achievement, rather than asking everyone to keep pushing with no clear endpoint.\u201d<br><br><strong>CAMERON: <\/strong>\u201cCommunication is key! We share our Valentine\u2019s plan with the team 4\u20136 weeks in advance so everyone can mentally prepare for what\u2019s coming. Of course, things always shift in the heat of the battle. Unexpected issues can pop up, but having a shared foundation helps.<br><br>We also plan our food for the week a couple of weeks out. We provide lunch every day during production, and we focus on meals that are wholesome and energizing rather than pizza and cheeseburgers. It absolutely makes a difference in the staff\u2019s productivity.\u201d<br><br><strong>BROOKE:<\/strong> \u201cI work and design alone, so it can be a challenge to stay energized. I keep plenty of easy snacks, favorite drinks, and small comforts like new shears, luxury hand lotion and hand wash at the sink (Aesop is my once-a-year splurge). I also keep a running list of the designs I\u2019m working through. Crossing each order off as I finish it gives me a visual boost and helps keep my momentum up!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/landonvase_2_-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"White and light pink striped vases filled with striking and lush florals.\" class=\"wp-image-16037 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/landonvase_2_-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/landonvase_2_-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/landonvase_2_-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/landonvase_2_-740x1110.jpg 740w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/landonvase_2_.jpg 800w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 683px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 683\/1024;\" \/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/landonvase_2_-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"White and light pink striped vases filled with striking and lush florals.\" class=\"wp-image-16037\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/landonvase_2_-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/landonvase_2_-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/landonvase_2_-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/landonvase_2_-740x1110.jpg 740w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/landonvase_2_.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br><strong>What\u2019s your top tip for managing customer expectations during a high-demand holiday?<\/strong><br><br><strong>SAM:<\/strong> \u201cCustomer expectations are the same during busy holidays as they are during the average day. Being open and clear about communication and policies, and working hard to deliver value, are the keys to ensuring customers have a great experience.\u201d<br><br><strong>CAMERON:<\/strong> \u201cDon\u2019t be afraid to charge what you need to provide the highest level of service. If a customer wants flowers delivered to an office by 2 PM on Valentine\u2019s Day, we\u2019re happy to make it happen, but it does come at a premium. On a regular day, our standard delivery fee is $12.95, plus an additional $3 to guarantee delivery by 2 PM. For Valentine\u2019s Day, delivery is approximately $21.95, with an added $7\u2013$10 for a guaranteed 2 PM arrival.<br><br>It may sound like a lot, but customers who truly need a timed delivery understand they\u2019re paying for a convenience. Charging appropriately not only ensures a sustainable service model, it also helps balance the volume of timed versus anytime deliveries.\u201d<br><br><strong>BROOKE:<\/strong> \u201cI like to set the tone with emotion and intention rather than rigid design notes. For example, I may not be able to guarantee peonies, but if they\u2019re her favorite flower, that tells me she likely gravitates toward a classic, feminine style. In that case, I might suggest Pink O\u2019Hara roses and pink ranunculus to create a sweet, romantic design in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/sonata-collection?utm_campaign=2025_vdayprep_112625&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_source=vessel.com&amp;utm_content=sonata\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Sonata Vase<\/a>.<br><br>I\u2019m always clear and transparent about budget and provide as much information up front as possible, from vase size to stem count. I want the sender to feel involved, so expectations stay realistic. At the same time, I keep the conversation light and always reassure them that I\u2019ll make their gift feel special and personal.\u201d<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/queenofheartsbudvase_1_-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A heart-shaped budvase in the shape of a heart filled with a simple and striking floral arrangement. \" class=\"wp-image-16038 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/queenofheartsbudvase_1_-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/queenofheartsbudvase_1_-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/queenofheartsbudvase_1_-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/queenofheartsbudvase_1_-740x1110.jpg 740w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/queenofheartsbudvase_1_.jpg 800w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 683px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 683\/1024;\" \/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/queenofheartsbudvase_1_-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A heart-shaped budvase in the shape of a heart filled with a simple and striking floral arrangement. \" class=\"wp-image-16038\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/queenofheartsbudvase_1_-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/queenofheartsbudvase_1_-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/queenofheartsbudvase_1_-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/queenofheartsbudvase_1_-740x1110.jpg 740w, https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/queenofheartsbudvase_1_.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br><strong>What\u2019s one lesson you\u2019ve learned from past Valentine\u2019s seasons that you\u2019d share with other florists?<\/strong><br><br><strong>SAM:<\/strong> \u201cYou cannot be everything to everyone all the time. \u00a0Figure out the system that allows you and your team to make the most beautiful things for as many people as you possibly can.\u201d<br><br><strong>CAMERON<\/strong>: \u201cDon\u2019t get greedy. Every holiday has a point where trying to squeeze in extra orders comes at the expense of your team, your service, and your reputation. Create a plan and stick to it. If you plan for 900 deliveries, buy product for 900, staff for 900, and focus on delivering the <em>best possible<\/em> experience for those 900. Celebrate when the last one goes out.<br><br>Pushing for \u2018just 100 more\u2019 strains your staff and increases the risk of mistakes &#8211; I learned this the hard way. Have a solid plan, plus a backup for when things go wrong (and another for when <em>that<\/em> goes wrong). Stick to it, and you\u2019ll succeed while building trust with new customers.\u201d<br><br><strong>BROOKE:<\/strong> \u201cDon\u2019t take every order or every call. Not all money is good money if it costs your body or sanity. After 16 years, I\u2019ve seen how much the holiday has changed since Covid \u2014 it may still be one of our busiest, but we can\u2019t rely on it to carry the entire first quarter anymore. Work smarter, not harder. Set minimums, limit offerings, and cut off orders before it becomes too much.<br><br>When I stopped accepting every small order, I was able to focus on more creative designs that truly wowed clients. Fewer orders at higher price points can often lead to the same revenue &#8211; and your body will thank you.\u201d<br><br>Connect with our contributing floral pros on Instagram\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/theplumdahlia\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">@theplumdahlia<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/nortonsflorist\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">@nortonsflorist<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/allens_flowers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">@allens_flowers<\/a>.<br><br>To shop Accent Decor\u2019s\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/?utm_campaign=2025_vdayprep_112625&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_source=vessel.com&amp;utm_content=hp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">wholesale decor<\/a>\u00a0and wholesale\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/seasonal\/valentine-s-day?utm_campaign=2025_vdayprep_112625&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_source=vessel.com&amp;utm_content=vdaycollection\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Valentine\u2019s<\/a> seasonal decor including all vases, pots and budvases, visit\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/?utm_campaign=2025_vdayprep_112625&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_source=vessel.com&amp;utm_content=hp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">accentdecor.com<\/a>.\u00a0<br><br><strong>READY TO BECOME A CUSTOMER?<\/strong><br><br>A quick and easy registration gives you access to\u00a0design-forward wholesale decor, wholesale pricing, product details ordering options, and much more!\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/customer\/account\/create\/?utm_campaign=2025_vdayprep_112625&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_source=vessel.com&amp;utm_content=registration\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Register now.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Every year, Valentine\u2019s Day brings a surge of demand for florists, often becoming the busiest and most important sales day on the calendar. But a successful Valentine\u2019s Day doesn\u2019t happen overnight. From planning trending floral designs and pricing to staffing strategically, securing wholesale hard goods, and keeping energy and morale high, seasoned floral pros know [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":16026,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[678,693],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-16025","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-designers","category-featured"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16025","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=16025"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16025\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":16043,"href":"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16025\/revisions\/16043"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/16026"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=16025"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=16025"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.accentdecor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=16025"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}