Every year on March 8, people around the world honor the women in their life on International Women’s Day. This day, which celebrates women and their achievements, was first observed more than 100 years ago across Europe and America. While there are many ways to honor women on International Women’s Day, such as shopping at women-owned businesses and donating to organizations that help women year-round, a simple and beautiful way to celebrate is with the gift of flowers.
According to NPR, on March 8, 1946, feminists in Italy chose the mimosa flower as a symbol of strength, sensibility and sensitivity. From that point on, women and men across the globe have given flowers on International Women’s Day to show their appreciation for the strong women in their lives. Today, the gift of flowers on this day is more popular than ever, and it’s not just the mimosa flower that is given out: the New York Times estimates that flower shops across the United States will sell upwards of 150,000 roses on this day.
With so many people looking to honor women with a gift of flowers, International Women’s Day is a perfect way for florists across the country to spread more awareness about this holiday. One way would be to offer special arrangements in shades of purple, the signature color of International Women’s Day. Multicolored arrangements in yellows, purples and pinks would also be a lovely choice.
A few flowers that would be ideal for these floral arrangements are: Gladiolus, often said to be a symbol of faithfulness and honor; Dark Pink Rose, which can express gratitude; Gerbera Daisy, a symbol of cheer and happiness; Alstroemeria, long associated with friendship and devotion. Create special arrangements and promote how they express gratitude, love and friendship for the special women in the lives of your customers.
Include a greeting card along with the arrangement, since bundle deals are the best way to maximize sales! Order your greeting cards several weeks ahead of the holiday, so that you can take photos of your arrangements with greeting cards and share them on your website and social media platforms. This will entice customers to purchase from your flower shop rather than another, more generic store that is offering the same type of arrangement.
You can promote the holiday, and the floral arrangements, across all social media platforms using hashtags fit for the occasion. Make sure to use #IWD2019, and add hashtags such as #iloveher, #ithankher, and #sheinspiresme. Have followers post pictures or uplifting messages and tag the women who have inspired them.
International Women’s Day isn’t a day about giving romantic gifts or celebrating a traditional holiday; it’s a day to show appreciation for women and their achievements, and to let them know they are supported as equals. This is a wonderful opportunity for florists to help boost sales while celebrating women.
