BUSINESS has been blooming for Sunraysia florists as locals look for ways to connect with their family and friends throughout Victoria’s second lockdown.
Mildura Flower Studio owner Melinda Williams said while July and August was a typically quiet time for the industry, sales were higher this year by about 25 per cent when compared to last year.
“It’s a colder time of year and there aren’t any big days like Christmas or Mother’s Day, so it does drop off a little bit,” she said.
“But this year it’s just been ongoing. People have been continuing and it’s kept us quite busy.”
Ms Williams said many deliveries had been made to nursing homes and retirement villages, as well as to local hospitals.
She said although people were still marking occasions like birthdays and anniversaries with a bunch of blooms, people were often sending them “just because”.
“I think people just really appreciate the thought of having something delivered to them,” she said.
“It’s a bit special having something delivered to your door as a surprise.
“Our delivery drivers love it – [people] are just so happy to see somebody.
“Even across the border, we’ve got our permit, so nothing has really restricted us.
“Flowers have to be delivered – that’s our motto.”