Petal it Forward

Nothing quite matches the feeling of gifting someone flowers and then watching a smile spread across their face.  And there are plenty of reasons to give someone flowers--birthdays, congratulations, condolences, anniversaries--but one of the most compelling reasons is absolutely no reason at all! In fact, a survey conducted this year by the Society of American Florists  (SAF) revealed that 84% of Americans say the best reasons for receiving flowers is "just because."

In fact, there's a direct link between flowers and positive emotions--and we have science to prove it! A study completed by Rutgers University has demonstrated that the presence of flowers creates "instant delight," enhances our feelings of life satisfaction and happiness, and has a positive impact on our social behavior. 

In addition, that same SAF survey cited above has shown that simply giving flowers brings us joy.  Apparently, the age-old adage of "it's better to give than receive," has made its mark on 88% of Americans who say "giving flowers to others makes me feel happy."

We want people to experience both giving and receiving first hand, so we are participating in a nationwide SAF event called, Petal it Forward!

How It Works

On Wednesday, October 7th, 2015,  join the floral industry in spreading smiles by surprising strangers with two flower bouquets.  Stand outside your shop (or anywhere you like) to hand out the flowers.  Kindly ask your flower recipients to "Petal It Forward," by giving one of their bouquets to someone special in their life, or even to another stranger.  The reason? Just Because.

Join the online community of givers and receivers by posting a photo of your arrangement and tagging @AboutFlowers.  Encourage your flower recipients to take a selfie and share on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter using the hashtag #PetalItFoward.  And continue to follow the action as hearts across the nation swell with kindness, smiles, and happiness.  (For more ideas on how to promote and enact the Petal it Forward event, read SAF's sample social media messages here).

Sample Flower Card Layout (to download a template, click here)

So how about it?  Wherever you are, join us on Wednesday October 7th, in the quest to spread a little bit of cheer and delight by Petaling it Forward!