Why Are Flowers So Expensive?

Every florist I know gets asked this question every day!

If you are wondering why, here's a few points to ponder:

Very few of the flowers sold in the US are grown here. They are mostly grown in countries such as Ecuador, Columbia, even Canada, and usually grown in greenhouses to minimize pests. The cost of overseas shipping is expensive, and when you factor in that fresh cut flowers are stored in refrigerated units, that adds even more to the cost. Overseas flowers come in through ports such as Miami, New York and San Diego, none of which are close to us in St. Louis! They are then transported to our local wholesaler, and then we purchase from them. That's a lot of people along that chain who need their paychecks!

Once the fresh cut flowers are in our hands, they are processed and conditioned so that they last for as long as possible. At Irene's, our designers have a combined 100+ years of experience, and are capable of designing many different types of arrangements. From weddings to funerals, birthdays to congratulations wishes, new babies to get well wishes, our designers put their years of experience and the love of their craft into each creation we sell. All of us at Irene's Floral Design takes a great deal of pride in our work!

Any one who owns a small business will tell you that its expensive to operate one! When you factor in rent of a retail space, utilities, cost of goods, labor, taxes, equipment maintenance, etc.... and that all comes before you pay yourself.

Its not uncommon for someone to ask us if we can design using the flowers they have grown in their own yard. Since flowers that have grown outside are full of bugs, and haven't been properly harvested and processed, the answer is no. The flowers that we provide have been brought to us via the chain that's described above. When our customers come in and exclaim how long their flowers have lasted, its because of all the love and care we put into those flowers.

We look forward to serving you! As your florist in the St. Louis area, we're happy to discuss your floral needs. Just give us a call at 314/200-3351!