As Valentine's Day approaches, local florists are already seeing a noticeable shift: customers are placing orders earlier than ever before. With demand climbing and popular blooms booking up fast, pre-ordering has become the new norm for couples, families, and gift-givers who want something more personal than a last-minute bouquet.
"People want their Valentine's flowers to feel thoughtful and custom, not rushed," says Adriana Maniscalco, owner and lead designer of Ladyslipper Floral Design. "We're seeing more clients plan ahead so they can choose specific colors, premium flowers, and unique design styles. It allows us to create arrangements that feel elevated and intentional."
This year's Valentine's trends go well beyond traditional red roses. Soft pastels paired with bold accent blooms, modern monochromatic designs, garden-inspired arrangements, and romantic neutral palettes are gaining popularity. Customers are also requesting specialty flowers such as orchids, ranunculus, spray roses, and textured greenery to create more dynamic and layered designs.
Another major factor driving early ordering is availability. Valentine's Day remains one of the busiest weeks of the year for florists, and certain flower varieties and color palettes sell out quickly. "When clients order ahead, it guarantees access to the best blooms and gives us time to design something truly custom," Maniscalco explains. "It also helps avoid the stress of limited inventory during peak days."
Read more at Tap Into West Essex
