The Flower Blog

The Value of Roses

Posted by Sat, Jan 21, 2023 @ 05:13 PM

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Valentine's Day is just around the corner and we are working tirelessly to ensure that our shop is filled with stunning arrangements and delightful bouquets for you to choose from! Amongst all the beautiful flowers, the rose reigns supreme as the most popular choice. Revered as the favorite flower of Venus, the goddess of Love, roses are currently in high demand all over the world. However, this surge in popularity raises the question - why are roses so expensive during this time of year? It's a fascinating inquiry, and we have the answer ready for you!

Click the video to uncover the behind-the-scenes secrets of product pricing and how it impacts both our business and our valued customers.

 

One of the main factors contributing to the expensive price of roses during Valentine's Day is the lengthy growing period. It takes a full sixty days for a rose bush to produce a mature rose. To meet the high demand on Valentine's Day, growers have to make a difficult decision during the month of December - they cut back production of their current crop of roses by harvesting them early. This means that they have to discard a potential good crop in order to make room for the roses needed on Valentine's Day. It's a risky move, especially considering the unpredictable nature of inclement weather.

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Furthermore, growers face limitations due to the perishable nature of roses and the limited space they have available. They cannot stockpile roses because they would quickly wilt and become unsellable. Additionally, the added expense of heating during the winter and shortened daylight hours further contributes to the higher price of roses.

The grower ultimately sets the price for the roses, which is higher due to the dumping of the crops in December. This additional cost is then passed through each market level - from the grower, to the wholesaler, to the florist, and finally to the customer.

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Another factor impacting the cost of roses is transportation. Most roses are imported from countries like Ecuador, Colombia, and across the country in California. As the demand for roses increases, so does the need for cargo space. This leads to more vehicles on the road and in the air to transport the popular flower. The expenses continue to add up - from cutting back crops to accommodate Valentine's Day demand, to adding more vehicles, and spending more money on gas.

It's not just Valentine's Day that sees a high demand for roses in the new year. Events like the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, and the Tournament of Roses parade require a staggering amount of roses. The average float in the Rose Parade uses approximately 160,000 flowers, highlighting the immense popularity of roses.

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Now that you understand the factors behind the high price of roses, you may be wondering if it's worth buying them this year. At Gillespie's, we understand the cost concerns and offer a variety of alternatives to roses. Stargazer lilies, gerbera daisies, carnations, alstroemeria lilies, hydrangea - the options are endless! Our design staff has created stunning bouquets for Valentine's Day that are sure to thrill your loved one, with or without roses.

 Click below to see our specials for Valentine's Day this year!

Valentine's Day Flowers

Topics: Holidays, Seasonal, Valentine's Day flowers, Roses in Indianapolis

Valentine's Day and The Value of Roses

Posted by Sat, Jan 21, 2023 @ 05:13 PM

Valentine's Day is just around the corner and we are working diligently to have beautiful arrangements delivered and delightful bouquets at our shop for you to select when stopping by!  The most popular flower by far is the rose. Considered the favorite flower of Venus, goddess of Love, they are definitely a hot commodity right now! Across the globe, people celebrating Valentine's day are in the market for beautiful roses and are paying a higher dollar amount to get them, which begs the question "Why are roses so expensive this time of year?"  It's a great question and we have the answer!

Click the video to learn more about what happens behind the scenes of product pricing and how it affects our business and consumers.


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The most important reason is the growing period for a rose. It is sixty days from a rose bush. In order for the grower to have sufficient quantity to meet the high demand on Valentine's Day, during the month of December, they cut back production of their current crop of roses by cutting them early.  Which means that the growers must throw away a potential good crop to have more room available for the roses on Valentines day. That is quite a gamble, especially considering the sporadic nature of inclement weather.

Growers only have a limited amount of space and the fact that they are dealing with a perishable product, makes it impossible to stockpile.  Winter and shortened daylight hours also plays a factor in the added expense of heating.

 The grower sets the price for the roses- which is higher due to the dumping of the crops in December- and the additional cost gets passed through each market level.  From the grower, the wholesaler, the florist and finally to the customer. 

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Another factor is transportation. Most roses are imported in from Ecuador, Columbia, across the country in California. As the demand for roses rise, so does the space for cargo. More space needed leads to more vehicles on the road and in the air to transport the popular rose. It's remarkable, from cutting back crops, adding more vehicles, spending more money on gas, and that's not all!  Valentine's Day isn't the first day to hit high demand for roses in the new year.  

The Rose Bowl in Pasedena, California uses thousands of roses. The Tournament of Roses parade, well, it's hard to imagine how many roses are used for this event! The average float in the Rose Parade uses approximately 160,000 flowers...that's a lot of flowers! 

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Now you know the story but what does this mean for you? Should you forgo buying roses or flowers this year altogether? Here are Gillespie's we have plenty roses AND alternatives to roses if the cost is a bit too steep this year.  Some of our other favorite flowers are stargazer lilies, gerbera daisies, carnations, alstroemeria lilies, hydrangea; the list is endless! Our design staff has made fabulous designs this year for Valentine's day and with or without roses, our bouquets are sure to thrill your loved one!

 

 Click below to see our specials for Valentine's Day this year!

Valentine's Day Flowers

Topics: Holidays, Seasonal, Valentine's Day flowers, Roses in Indianapolis

Topics: Valentines Day Roses, Valentines Day roses in Indianapolis, Valentines Day flowers, Alternative to roses

After Christmas Sale 2022

Posted by Mon, Dec 26, 2022 @ 12:15 PM

Raw_badgetag-01-1We wish you the merriest of holidays and a Happy New Year!  Spend some time with your loved ones, eat delicious food and treats, relax in your sleepy pants, and enjoy yourself!  

Here at Gillespie's part of celebrating the holidays and welcoming the New Year is having an After Christmas Sale!  "Out with the Old, In with the New!" as they always say.  If you didn't have a chance to stop by and see us before the holidays it's not too late to stock up for next year! 

See below for our  specials and plan to come in and see us! We are ready to celebrate and serve you in the New Year.

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Please note that our sale excludes: 

Any Fresh Flowers, Any Plants, Any Serviced Product Sale items cannot be delivered. Restrictions may apply.
All Sales Are Final. Sale Ends Friday, January 3rd, 2014

Questions? Call 317.273.1100

Topics: Sales, after Christmas sale, Christmas Gifts

Happy Holidays DIY Floral Design Class

Posted by Wed, Nov 30, 2022 @ 04:10 PM

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Our "Happy Holidays" DIY Floral Design class is back for the winter season!

If you like merry and bright flowers, Christmas and holiday design and learning DIY skills then sign up for this class today! In just two hours, Gillespie Florists Co-owner and experienced designer Pat Gillespie will guide you through the ins and outs of creating your very own Christmas themed arrangement!
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Wednesday, December 14th, from 5-7pm 
at 9255 W 10th St, Indianapolis 46234

$50 per person. 8 Person Class Size.
Must be 18 years or older due to sharp instruments being used.

We have had an amazing time bringing back our DIY Floral Design classes this year, starting with Halloween, adding Thanksgiving and now, Pat Gillespie is ready lead this popular class for the holidays. Mr. Gillespie has decades of experience in floral design and will be guiding you on this fun adventure with fresh flowers and your choice of container. Learning is part of the journey and Pat, as your guide, instructor and Dad-Joke extraordinaire will have you designing in no time with tips he's had ages to perfect. By the end of the two hours you will be bringing home a beautiful (arranged by you) creation and telling your friends and family about it so they can sign up for the next one! Check out these photos below. We had a great time designing Thanksgiving and Christmas arrangements with friends. Why not join in the fun?

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So how about it? Sound pretty good? Two hours, personalized instruction with a most experienced floral designer and $50 for materials including: holiday themed container, florals and accessories! Extra accessories available if you would like to add more to your creation.
Share the link with your friends and make a night of it! Class size is limited so don't wait too long.
You have the option to purchase a single spot OR a double spot for yourself and a friend!
Questions? Give us a call: 317.273.1100 and we can assist you. Hope to see you in class!

 

REGISTER ONLINE FOR 12/14 HERE!


 

Topics: DIY Flowers, Design onsite, Christmas flowers, Holiday Flowers

"Giving Thanks" DIY Floral Design Class

Posted by Thu, Oct 27, 2022 @ 02:51 PM

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Our "Giving Thanks" DIY Floral Design class is back!

If you like flowers, fall theme design and learning DIY skills then this class is for you! In just two hours, Gillespie Florists Co-owner and experienced designer Pat Gillespie will guide you through the ins and outs of creating your very own Thanksgiving themed arrangement!

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Wednesday, November 16th, from 5-7pm 
at 9255 W 10th St, Indianapolis 46234

$50 per person. 8 Person Class Size.
Must be 18 years or older due to sharp instruments being used.

Concerned about working with real flowers and no way to back-space out of it? That's ok! We mentioned Pat Gillespie earlier and here's why! Mr. Gillespie has decades of experience in floral design and will be guiding you on this fun adventure with fresh flowers and your choice of container. Learning is part of the journey and Pat, as your guide, instructor and Dad-Joke extraordinaire will have you designing in no time with tips he's had ages to perfect. By the end of the two hours you will be bringing home a beautiful (arranged by you) creation and telling your friends and family about it so they can sign up for the next one! Check out these photos below. We had a great time designing Thanksgiving and Christmas arrangements with friends. Why not join in the fun?

DIYDESIGN

So how about it? Sound pretty good? Two hours, personalized instruction with a most experienced floral designer and $50 for materials including: fall themed container, florals and accessories! Extra accessories available if you would like to add more to your creation.
Share the link with your friends and make a night of it! Class size is limited so don't wait too long!
Questions? Give us a call: 317.273.1100 and we can assist you. Hope to see you at class!

 

REGISTER ONLINE FOR 11/16 HERE!


 

Topics: design classes, fall flowers, Thanksgiving, fall season, DIY Flowers

DIY Halloween Floral BOO-CAMP!

Posted by Thu, Sep 29, 2022 @ 05:18 PM

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Do you like DIY? Flowers? Halloween? Pat Gillespie?
If you said yes to any of the questions above then it's time to sign up for our HALLOWEEN FLORAL DIY BOO-CAMP! Don't worry, it's not all day. In just two hours Pat will guide you through the ins and outs of creating your very own Halloween themed arrangement!

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Gillespie Florists is bringing back their DIY class for Halloween! 

Tuesday, October 18th, from 5-7pm 
at 9255 W 10th St, Indianapolis 46234

$50 per person. 8 Person Class Size.
Must be 18 years or older due to sharp instruments being used.

Concerned about working with real flowers and no way to back-space out of it? That's ok! We mentioned Pat Gillespie earlier and here's why! Mr. Gillespie has decades of experience in floral design and will be guiding you on this spooky fun adventure with fresh flowers and your choice of either a jack-o'-lantern or ceramic pumpkin container. Learning is part of the journey and Pat, as your guide, instructor and Dad-Joke extraordinaire will have you designing in no time with tips he's had ages to perfect. By the end of the two hours you will be bringing home a beautiful (arranged by you) creation and telling your friends and family about it so they can sign up for the next one! Check out these photos below. We had a great time designing Thanksgiving and Christmas arrangements with friends. Why not join in the fun?

DIYDESIGN

So how about it? Sound pretty good? Two hours, personalized instruction with a most experienced floral designer and $50 for materials including: jack-o'-lantern or ceramic pumpkin container, fall florals and Halloween accessories! Extra accessories available if you would like to add more to your creation.
Share the link with your friends and make a night of it! Class size is limited so don't wait too long!
Questions? Give us a call: 317.273.1100 and we can assist you. Hope to see you at class!

 

REGISTER ONLINE FOR 10/18 HERE!


 

Topics: Halloween flowers, DIY, DIY Flowers

MOTHER'S DAY DELIVERY ANNOUNCEMENT

Posted by Wed, May 04, 2022 @ 11:13 AM

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SPECIAL MOTHER'S DAY DELIVERY INFORMATION AND OPTIONS

 

 

We pride ourselves on quality product and services. While we do our best to accommodate our customer’s delivery time expectations, From Saturday, May 7th on, we will no longer be accepting morning deliveries for Sunday, May 8th.

From Saturday May 7th on, all deliveries placed for Sunday, May 8th will be delivered at our earliest convenience. Any special time notations will not be applied because we cannot guarantee 
a specific time for Sunday May 8th due to the volume of deliveries scheduled. Please note All AM delivery time slots for MOTHER'S DAY will be closed as of May 7th. 

Flex Delivery worked so well for Valentine's Day we are bringing it back for Mother's Day!
We are offering delivery option FLEX DELIVERY this year for Mother's Day. Watch the video below to learn more about it!

 

The Flex Delivery Option appears when a delivery date from May 4th - May 8th is selected.
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Save $5 on your order when you choose Flex delivery and have your order delivered
May 4th - May 8th at our earliest convenience.

Click the button below to find the perfect complement to your expressions of love with beautiful flowers, gifts and chocolates! We also have keepsake gifts such as charms, cherubs, balloons, cards and more which can be included into your order. Have questions? Need further assistance? Call 317.273.1100 and speak with one of our spectacular customer service representatives or come visit us at 9255 W 10th St, Indianapolis IN 46234!

 

Mother's Day Collection



 

Topics: Mother's Day Flowers, mother's day gifts, Mother's Day, floral delivery, Flex Delivery

The Sale Before Christmas

Posted by Fri, Dec 17, 2021 @ 04:17 PM

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We're back for another sale right before Christmas! Add the finishing touches to your home and Christmas gifts with items at our store.
Shop local with Gillespie Florists for great discounts on these seasonal items.

Sale Starts Saturday, December 18th, 2021 and runs through End of Business Friday, December 24th, 2021.

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What kind of items will you find at our sale? Check out all the gifts we have in the store by watching this sweet video below! Christmas ornaments, silk flowers, keepsakes, candles, plush, music boxes, angels, chocolates and more. Only items in the store not on sale are our fresh plants including poinsettias and Christmas Cactus however they are still available for purchase!
We'll just go ahead and note that the adorable bulldog, Minnie, in the video is not for sale either. But she is pretty cute, isn't she?
If you're looking for last minute gifts, this is the place to be.

Come see us today.


75% off plush

50% off Christmas

75% off select Christmas (50% off tree)

25% off any other everyday gift items, silks, candles or merchandise

Sale Excludes: Any Fresh Flowers, Any Plants
Any Serviced Product (no changes to existing product- as is condition)
Sale items cannot be delivered. Restrictions may apply. All Sales Are Final.

Don’t forget to ask about our Fresh Flower take out specials!

Questions? Call 317.273.1100

 

 

 

Topics: Sales, Christmas flowers, Christmas Gifts, Before Christmas

Christmas Wreath Traditions

Posted by Sat, Dec 04, 2021 @ 10:39 AM

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"Symbolizing eternal hope, the wreath goes 'round and 'round, And where it starts or ends cannot be found. Woven of things that grow - for life, and hung for holiday delight. The wreath must be left in place from Advent through Twelfth Night."  
- Author unknown
 

 

You know the when: whenever Christmas decorations show up in the aisles of your favorite watering holes there are bound to be wreaths available for purchase. Perhaps there's one in storage up in the attic which has been dusted off and hung outside your door? Do you know the WHY? Why use a wreath? I'm sure I've learned the reason back in the day and haven't committed it to long term memory. Thank goodness for internet...again! If you know the significance of wreaths during Christmas season then please enjoy a few of the ones hanging up around our shop. If now is convenient for a knowledge drop on a brief wreath history, we've got some interesting information below!

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The word wreath originates from the old English word "writhen" which means "to writhe" or "to twist". Hanging of Christmas wreaths on doors began with Romans as a symbol of status in society and also a sign of victory. Wreaths were often seen as headwear also as women wore them as a sign of pride and victors of sporting events in ancient Greece were given laurel wreaths. Sprigs of laurel sound familiar? Olympic medals are engraved with them even today!

The circular shape of wreaths symbolizes eternal rebirth. What began as Pre-Christian cultures' belief of the power of evergreens to withstand harsh winters has evolved into the modern representation of eternal life and strength of Christ. Christmas wreaths in Catholic tradition are adorned with four candles - Three purple to symbolize penance and expectation, and one of pink to represent coming joy. One candle is lit each Sunday (to represent four Fridays of Advent) preceding Christmas day.  Similarly, traditional Pagan wreaths are also comprised of evergreens with four candles to represent the elements of earth, wind, fire, and water which are lit to ensure the continuance of the circle of life. In modern times the meaning of the wreath is much simpler. A sign of welcome and affirmation of holiday cheer for this season which emphasizes gathering of family, friends, and loved ones; giving; and generosity.

Strong traditions or simply for holiday celebration and cheer; a wreath of evergreens is a beautiful decoration for home, office, indoors and out-of-doors. We decorate our wreaths numerous ways from a vibrant red bow and pinecones to a delightful design using ornaments, plush, and more! A wreath is a perfect way to greet family, friends and the new year to your door!

Need to deliver Christmas cheer to someone near and dear? Check out our Christmas collection!

 

Topics: holiday traditions, evergreen wreaths, Christmas wreaths

Black Friday and Small Business Saturday Sale 2021

Posted by Mon, Nov 15, 2021 @ 10:09 AM

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Holiday Season is upon us and we are celebrating with our annual sale!
Shop local with Gillespie Florists for great discounts on seasonal items.

Sale Starts Monday, November 22nd, 2021 and runs through End of Business Monday, November 29th, 2021.

 

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All Christmas & Fall Product 50% Off

Select Christmas 75% Off

Any Giftware 50% Off

All Silk Arrangements 50% Off

Candles 50% Off

Plush 50% Off

 

Don’t forget to ask about our Fresh Flower take out specials!

 

Sale Excludes: Any Fresh Flowers, Any Plants, Any Serviced Product 

Sale items cannot be delivered.  Restrictions may apply.

All Sales Are Final. 

Questions? Call 317.273.1100