Stop and smell the roses

COEUR d’ALENE — During the week leading up to Valentine’s Day, the phone never seems to stop ringing at Hansen’s Florist & Gifts.

“It’s pretty insane,” said employee Mia Garrett. “It’s nonstop. We try to take care of people as best we can.”

Naturally, red roses are the most popular items at local flower shops this time of year.

In addition to that classic gift, Garrett said Hansen’s is selling plenty of the arrangements advertised on the shop’s website — the dramatic pink and red “Love Struck Bouquet” made with hydrangeas, roses and lilies; the “Love’s Divine” bouquet comprised of long-stemmed red and white roses; and other varieties.

Rather than a bouquet based off an existing recipe, however, Garrett said she often recommends customers set a budget and let floral designers create an arrangement.

That allows them to use the flowers that look best at the time of delivery, taking the customer’s wishes into account.

“They get to be more creative,” she said. “The flowers usually turn out more beautiful.”

Owner Katrina Jaeger said Hansen’s will likely stop accepting new orders for delivery on Valentine’s Day by Saturday.

She encouraged customers to place their orders as soon as possible.

Those who miss that window can still pick up premade arrangements in the shop.

At Duncan’s Florist Shop in Hayden, owner Stacey Cook said sales are up compared to the same time last year.

“Ever since COVID hit, people want to send more flowers,” she said.

Though the pandemic created some supply issues over the last year, including glassware like vases, sourcing flowers hasn’t been an issue.

Still, due to the volume of orders, Cook noted that customers who are just now placing orders should keep in mind that all types of flowers might not be available.

“If they’re last minute, they’ll have to remember that you don’t always get what you want,” she said. “Sometimes you have to have a little patience.”