It’s that time of year again where florists are filled with fresh flowers and happy customers looking to buy their loved one’s roses.
With Valentine’s Day coming up, Anne Andrades from Waratah Florist in Earlwood, Sydney spoke with The Greek Herald about what goes on in the flower world in the lead up to the big day.
“It’s definitely a crazy time of year,” Anne said.
“[The orders] start trailing in a couple of weeks before, and then even up to the last minute, we have people ringing up and wanting flowers all over Sydney.
“We’ve just always got to be ready as we don’t know what to expect yet, but there’s a lot of preparation taking place in the lead up.
Anne said they sell thousands of bunches of roses each year for Valentine’s Day, but other flowers are also popular at Waratah Florist.
“Roses and lilies are the most popular. In my area particularly, quite a few people opt for roses and lilies together,” she said.
“We also offer people add-ons like chocolates, candles and bottles of champagne which customers can purchase with the flowers too.”
Anne said despite the current increase in prices for many things Australia-wide due to the cost-of-living crisis, Waratah Florist tries to remain reasonable.
“We’ve still got our regular customers that come in and support us,” she said.
“Even though the prices go up for us at the market, we still try and keep our prices as reasonable as we can. That’s one of the reasons as to how we maintain our business, because we have great, loyal customers who are constantly coming in.”
The florist said despite how stressful it can be to work during the Valentine’s Day period, she wouldn’t have it any other way.
“The shop is full of love and people that are in the love, so everyone’s pretty happy during this time of year,” Anne explained.
“Our staff always seem extra happy and motivated for sales during this time. The shop is also full for the whole day and people are generally in a good mood and it’s just a really nice time to be working.
“It is stressful, but it’s lovely at the same time.”
Anne thanked customers for all the support they receive.
“Our customers are the reason we are here and why we love it so much. They’re not only customers, but they’re our friends, and we couldn’t imagine life without them,” she said.
Waratah Florist deliver all over Sydney and Australia wide. Anne said they cater to everyone and will be open for Valentine’s Day until the last minute.
“It’s always good to get your orders in early just so we can prepare… but if it comes to the day and you’re not organised, we can still help you,” she said.
Waratah Florist is open Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6:30pm, Saturday 8 am to 5 pm and Sunday, 9 am to 4 pm. You can find it at 4/322 Homer Street in Earlwood, Sydney.
