Let’s face it. 2020 and the COVID-19 pandemic affected every industry in some type of way. From postponed concerts to airlines grounding their planes because of no events and countries closing, just about every person you meet will say their lives changed in 2020.
Who knew that a worldly illness could interfere with the flower industry? In 2020, major flower farms ranging from California to South Africa shut down and laid off floral experts that monitor the growing process of flowers. Studies have in fact shown that ⅓ of the EU Flower 3,000 floral farms were closed in 2020, resulting in an estimated 1.2 billion loss in the first six weeks of the pandemic alone, according to the International Flower Trade Association.
Rainy seasons have also been an obstacle in the floral industry on top of pandemic recovery. South America had its worst rainy season that the country has experienced in years, causing damage in the growing process. If you want to read more about what’s going on with the floral shortages across the wedding industry, check out the article below to learn more.
In the midst of floral shortages, we have learned a lot here at Petals & Fields. Check out our Q&A with our founder, Alina Kamilchu, to learn how we have persevered during these difficult times and what we are looking forward to as our company grows:
1.) What has been the biggest challenge since the COVID pandemic?
The biggest challenge has been to stay up to date with all of the local and state mandates which had clients change their wedding dates. This made most weddings roll over to 2021 & 2022. Working together with the client and venue to change dates has not been easy, but we are making it work.
2.) Shortages seem like they are everywhere these days - have you struggled with any shortages within the floral industry?
Unfortunately, yes. There has been countries that completely shut down where our main suppliers would ship from. We couldn't order the basics for a while such as hydrangea or blush roses. Our wholesalers were in panic mode because all supply chains were dependent on each government. Hence, the pricing went up for everyone. Glass shortages prevented all florists from purchasing glass vases/vessels.
That's what made P|F think outside the box. We began networking with local flower farmers and suppliers. This solves the problem of relying on other countries to ship the products that are currently depleting by the week. However, we see the struggle South America and Europe has faced and still want to support the growers off shores.
3.) What's one thing you are looking forward to as a floral designer as we slowly come out of COVID?
Being able to meet each client face to face. Serve our clients without any hindrances… and of course, design the most beautiful installations.
4.) How have you been able to pivot P&F in this time?
As an owner & entrepreneur, everyday has been fluid and changing in this industry. The only way to overcome this challenge is to face it and have the confidence that things will get better.
During this time, I have been able to re calibrate and get inspired once again…which was very hard not knowing what was ahead for the world as a whole. Thankfully I accepted the challenge day by day and looking back with no regret.
During Mother’s day in 2020, I had an idea to collaborate with some of the most prominent businesses in Nashville such as Barista parlor, Nashville Cheese Gal, Frothy Monkey and 1200 Broadway. We were able to bless so many Mother’s with fresh flowers, coffee, pastries & charcuterie boards. I was truly overwhelmed with gratitude on how small business owners came together in a difficult time.
Where we are headed now is very exciting! Currently, we are growing and simultaneously working on some huge changes and updates. To give you a hint, we won’t just be your luxury florist anymore... stay tuned for more updates.
Article by: Bethany Stout | P&F Marketing Manager
Visit this link to learn more about the flower shortage
