What’s Up with the Cost of Flowers?
If you have been in the market for flowers recently you probably experienced sticker shock. As with so many things, the price of flowers has skyrocketed due to the pandemic. On average, costs have increased by about 20%, while some specific varieties such as carnations have increased by almost 50%. As a result, many have been asking, “Why?” and “What are some alternatives?”
Let’s start with the why. There are several contributing factors that have driven up fresh flower prices and below are three that I believe are particularly interesting.
Higher Demand
It’s not a surprise that there is higher demand for fresh cut flowers as events resume. For instance, all of the 2020 events postponed to 2021 are competing with the originally scheduled 2021 events for a limited supply. In addition, while we were all sequestered in our homes and unable to physically attend those special events, many opted to “say it with flowers.” This has added a strain to the supply chain.
Limited Supply
The lack of demand during the pandemic resulted in some growers destroying their crops or placing their greenhouses in hibernation. With the future being quite uncertain, growers did not plant at pre-pandemic levels and it will take time for flower beds to be replenished.
In addition, the flower market is a global industry. According to floraldaily.com, the US annually imports 82% of its flowers and Ecuador, one of the largest producers, experienced inclement weather during first quarter 2021 that is now impacting supply.
Higher Transportation Costs
Fresh cut flowers are perishable. And since they must quickly arrive at their final destination while remaining at a stable temperature between 35 and 39O F, air has been the premier means of transport. However, with fewer flight options and increased fares, these added costs have been embedded in the prices we pay.
But, it’s not all doom and gloom. There are some options that can be used to help contain the floral expense at your next event.
If you are like me and you really love the sight and scent of fresh flowers, it’s hard to give up this décor element. In this case, you might elect to allocate more of the budget to flowers while still being wise with your choices. Here are some options:
Use flowers that are in season for your geographic region
Downsize your arrangement size
Incorporate flowers with large petals or lots of volume into your bouquet or centerpiece (e.g., hydrangeas)
Feature only one really expensive flower in your floral arrangement
On the other hand, you might like the look of flowers and be quite comfortable with using a faux variety. Of course, you can use silk flowers; but these can be almost as expensive as real ones.
However, there is another option and this is one of my all-time favorite hacks. Have you heard of sola wood flowers?
I almost fell off my seat when my bride Sheena (pictured below) showed me her bouquet. Yes, these flowers pictured here are wood. LOVE! LOVE! LOVE!
Maybe, you just are not into flowers. Guess what? It is not a requirement and you don’t have to sacrifice having amazingly creative décor. For instance, feathers and pampas grass have become very popular alternatives. While some brides have created bouquets out of brooches. In addition, other popular flower-free centerpieces have included candles, fruit, vintage books, and lighted branches.
Simply stated, flowers are expensive. They always have been and will continue to be. However, don’t despair. With creativity and help from your event planner, you can have the look that you love with a budget that you can live with.