California Florists Face Rising Costs Amid Mother's Day Flower Rush
As Mother's Day approaches, Northern California florists are experiencing a surge in demand, with Americans expected to spend a record $38 billion on the holiday. At Bartlett Flowers in Roseville, the staff is working tirelessly to meet the increased demand, which is about eight times more than a typical week. However, the florists are facing challenges due to rising costs in the floral industry. Owner Jennifer Steele notes that higher gas prices, tariffs, and shipping expenses have increased the cost of flowers before they even reach her shop. To manage these costs without significantly raising prices for customers, Steele's team is creatively blending premium flowers with more affordable options. Despite the price hikes, many customers, like Matthew Bearden, continue to prioritize purchasing flowers for Mother's Day, viewing it as a tradition that cannot be skipped. 
