If you’re planning a wedding or other event this summer Wisconsin’s florists are here to help! But you might need to plan ahead and be willing to be flexible. That’s according to Nichole Campbell, President of the Wisconsin and Upper Michigan Florists Association and owner of Pedal Pushers floral shop in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The floral industry in Wisconsin went through a shortage in 2022. But Campbell says things are back on track.
During the pandemic, many floral storefronts were closed. They were forced to utilize contactless delivery or curbside pickup in order to maintain their business. Campbell says things have quieted down post-pandemic and have lined back up in the way that she’s used to.
“We’re also seeing more variety in what brides are asking for,” says Campbell. “That actually helps with the supply demand portion of things as we’re able to use a wider variety of products. It just makes it a little easier logistically.”
When it comes to flower farms overseas, they are requesting for an earlier notice on large scale orders. The biggest farms are usually in South America. Particularly, when it comes to products like roses, hydrangeas and chrysanthemums, a lot of those are coming from places like Colombia and Ecuador. Early crop peonies come from Israel and many daisies and lisianthus are coming from Canada.
Campbell has her own farm operation that she uses to help stock her shop. She says that the most requested flower is currently peonies. Having her own operation helps Campbell overcome seasonality and supply chain issues.
Another disruption in the supply chain florists saw last year was the availability of vases and sprays. Campbell is thankful that it hasn’t been as big of a challenge this year.
“We are seeing a lot of couples bringing in their own unique containers that they want their centerpieces created in,” Campbell adds. “This helps us truly create their dream floral arrangement without the worry of supplies.”
Campbell encourages everybody to support their local flower shop and send people flowers. To find a local florist near you use the find a florist tool on the Wisconsin and Upper Michigan Florists Association website.
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