The 'Sustainable' Florist

 

1.  The hyper focused demand for a single flower carries a lot of pressure not only for the environment, but also for the workers who are growing them.  Most of the roses sold in the United States are produced in central and south America where labor laws, worker protections, and environmental restrictions are much more lax.  This is one of the reasons they are grown so cheaply- low wages, low worker protections and lower environmental oversight mean higher profit margins.  

2.   Florists already stress about the idea of packing a month's worth of sales into 2 days, but the idea of making dozen rose arrangements in red for days on end makes me want to give up Valentine's Day altogether.   In my experience, a lot of customers request red roses because they don't know what else to ask for.  This is a huge fail on our part as florists.  If we don't offer anything else, how do our customers know there's something else to offer? I curate a collection of Valentine's Day flowers that are inspiring not only for me, but for the recipient.  They are unique to Foxbound Flowers and something you wouldn't find at any other floral shop. 

3.  There are other flower choices that are more eco-conscious.  Here in Oregon, Tulips are a better choice for the season.  Grown by Oregon Flowers, Inc. only 90 miles from the Foxbound Flowers studio, they have a much smaller carbon footprint than roses.  Tulips require less chemical pesticides and fungicides than roses, they can grow at lower temperatures, and they grow quickly.  They are grown in OSHA approved conditions, and the money supports local families and a small town near you.  I visited the Oregon Flowers, Inc. greenhouses and was super impressed by their operation, their efficiency, and their dedication to eco-conscious choices whenever possible  (They use nematodes as pest control!) . For more info, read my blog Dutch Greenhouse in Oregon. 

4.  I rail against the idea that you need to express your love in a singular way, and that red roses are the only way to do that.  Everyone's love is different, and everyone else should express it however they want.  If you are giving someone flowers with love, then it doesn't matter what color they are, they are the color of love.  Someone, somewhere, at some point in the not-so-distant past attached the meaning of love to a red rose most likely because they had a surplus of roses they needed to move in February (hats off to their marketing person!).  We could just as easily decide to detach that meaning if it doesn't work for us anymore.  Any flowers can be Valentine's Day flowers.  If you're giving them on Valentine's Day, they are in essence Valentine's Day flowers.  

5.  Florists make a smaller profit margin on Roses during Valentine's Day than any other time of year, which means more work and less pay.  I already struggle with low profit margins on a regular basis, why would I want to double down on the number one problem that plagues my florists? I'm constantly looking to find ways to work smarter, not harder, and selling red roses on Valentine's Day flies in the face of that goal.  For more information on the shrinking profit margins of red roses on Valentine's Day, read this NPR article: 

20,000 roses, inflation and night terrors: the life of a florist on Valentine's Day(FEBRUARY 14, 202310:39 AM ETBy Stacey Vanek Smith)

In conclusion, I'm not selling Red Roses this Valentine's Day in protest of the Valentine's Day status quo.  Red Roses, your day is done. 

 

 

 

Have you finished your holiday shopping yet?  No?!  Me either.  Despite the fact that we're continually being told to shop and ship early this year, the holiday season has only just begun.  Whether you're just looking for a few more gifts to finish you list or you haven't started yet (that's me!), here are some great gift ideas that support local artists, artisans, farmers, and small business owners in our community while putting very little strain on the environment:  

 

HONEY

There's no sweeter gift than locally produced honey, so if you have a loved one with a sweet tooth, or a foodie friend this is the perfect gift!  Our community has a wide range of honey options and gifts, so you don't have to settle for anything plain-jane.  Check out these options for some fun ideas:

1. Blackberry Honey from Humble Bee Honey - The flavor of this honey can't be beat, and you can rest assured that the honey is produced sustainable and the bees are well cared for.  Find jars of this amazing local honey at Market of Choice, Natural Grocers, and New Season's Market. (Go for the BIG jar.  You won't regret it!)  Find out more about this sustainable honey farm by visiting the Humble Bee Honey website.

2. Queen's Bounty Honey Variety Trio from Queen's Bounty - A fun variety pack of local honey that includes a jar each of Blackberry Honey, Wildflower Honey, and Forest Flower honey.  Order from their website and they'll deliver if you live in Eugene or Springfield!

3. Small Batch Habanero Honey from Glory Bee  - While not made entirely from local bees, this hot and sweet honey will definitely kick up the heat on any holiday charcuterie board, and a portion of the sales are donated to Honey Bee research and Colony Collapse Disorder.  Family run since 1974, Glory Bee is a certified B Corporation.  Order online, or visit their store/warehouse in person at 29548 Airport Rd, Eugene, OR.

 

CANDLES

Who doesn't love the warm glow of a candle during the dark months of winter?  You can support local artisans by buying handmade candles to add that cozy glow to the season.  Here's a few local candle rockstars:

4. Sea Salt + Orchid Botanical Candle from Earth Elements Candle Company - A vegan option for candle lovers, these candles are 100% coconut and soy wax and oh-so-chic!  Choose from many different scents when you shop from their website, or visit their booth at the Holiday Market at the Lane County Fairgrounds every weekend until December 24th.

5. Large Pillar Candle from Little Bee's Candle Company -These hand-poured beeswax candles are naturally scented and keeping it simple- no fuss, no additives, just long-lasting candles.  Shop their website or purchase at Market of Choice, Hiron's Pharmacy (18th Ave), or Sundance Natural Foods.  

 

FLOWER SUBSCRIPTION

Truly the gift that keeps on giving!  The best part about a flower subscription is it's not just something to be opened in December and then forgotten.  It lasts from month to month and extends the initial excitement of opening a holiday gift. Despite the fact that most of the flowers sold in the U.S.A. are grown in Central and South America, Eugene has a lot of options for flower lovers!

6. Pay-as-you-Go Flower Subscription from Foxbound Flowers - With this flower subscription you don't have to pay for a full season of bouquets up front!  You get to choose your price point and frequency, and end the subscription whenever you want.  You don't have to wait until spring, either.  Foxbound Flowers sources all their product responsibly, utilizing local flowers when possible, and sourcing from California and the Pacific Northwest outside the local growing season.  Order from their website. (Foxbound Flowers also offers pre-paid 6 month and 12 month subscriptions at a variety of price points)

7. Spring Flower CSA from Formosa Flowers - Five weeks of sustainably grown local flowers, this CSA starts in early April and may include favorites such as Tulips, Ranunculus and Anemones.  Reserve you CSA spot online.  

 

Unique Experiences

If you live in Eugene, you already know it's unique.  Support local small businesses and give the gift of a unique adventure to someone you love.  Here are a few adventures you may not have heard of:

8. Picnic with Carl the Goat from Fraga Farms -Get a tour of Fraga Farms, then enjoy handmade cheeses while relaxing by the nearby pond.  You don't have to carry the picnic basket- Carl the goat will be accompanying you and carrying the snacks!  I mean, seriously, why would you NOT do this?!  You'll probably need to wait until spring, but I can guarantee the person on your list who has everything does not have this!  Book your Picnic with Carl the Goat online. (While you're there, don't forget to bring home some of their amazing goat cheese!)

9. French Cooking and Farm Stay from AppleTree Farm - Get away from it all without burning a lot of fossil fuels. Enjoy a stay on a small picturesque farm just outside of Eugene- peruse the garden, visit the Gotland sheep, and take advantage of the spectacular scenery of the Willamette Valley.  Add custom options to your stay such as a French Breakfast, wool working activities, or French cooking activities. 

Spices

10. West Indies Rub Seasoning from Mountain Rose Herbs

Spice up your life with a little organic flavor from Oregon's first TRUE Zero Waste Certified (Platinum Level!) business.  Transport yourself to the Mediterranean, spice things up Cajun style, or add some organic Mesquite flavor to your next Barbeque!  Perfect for the foodie on you list, the griller, or anyone who eats food, really.  Check out their website for more seasoning blends, or make your own blend with bulk spices and give them to your favorite people. 

 

Evergreen Wreath

This festive gift is long-lasting and will add color and cheer to any doorstep! Eugene's proximity to evergreen foliage is unparalleled, so take advantage of these beautiful and artistic creations.  

11. Fully Biodegradeable Wreath by Foxbound Flowers -  This biodegradeable wreath is handmade using local evergreen foliage and pinecones, and fasted to a dried vine frame instead of metal so when it's done you can compost it!  (Put it in your municipal yard waste/compost bin!).  Available for delivery by Electric Vehicle.  Order online.

12. Evergreen Wreath by Charles Little & Company - These artistic wreaths are made from evergreen foliage grown right on the edge of Eugene.  Pick out your favorite wreath at the Charles Little & Company Farm Stand located at the base of Mount Pisgah (open Thursday-Saturday 9-5) 

Housewares

If you're not familiar with Marley's Monsters yet, you're missing out!  This Eugene company is proving that style and sustainability can go hand in and when it comes to housewares.  

13. Napkins and Rings Gift Box from Marley's Monsters - This classic set of black and white reusable napkins and napkin rings comes already packaged and ready to ship!  Perfect for the person in your life who loves to entertain!  Order online and have it shipped! 

14. UnPaper Towels from Marley's Monsters - I know cleaning items aren't a sexy holiday gift, but these cute unpaper towels are so easy to use and might be just the thing to break your Aunt's paper towel addiction.  Choose from numerous solids, prints, and even holiday designs.  (Don't forget the holder!)  Order online and have it shipped.

 

Spirits/Wine

15. Pomona Grapefruit Gin from Thinking Tree Spirits - This delightful adult treat is made locally and responsibly sourced.  Add some simple syrup, a dash of lemon juice and some Champagne (recipe available on their website) and you're ready to impress on New Year's Eve!  Order online and have it shipped anywhere in Oregon, or visit their location at 88 Jackson Street  Eugene, Oregon.

16. Willamette Valley Pinot Noir from King Estates Winery - This family operated winery is dedicated to making quality wines using organic and sustainable farming methods.  A Biodynamic(C) Vineyard, the vintner uses owls, kestrels, and beneficial insect species to deter vineyard pests. Order online and have it shipped.

Other

17. Family Membership from Cascades Raptor Center

The Cascades Raptor Center is a community jewel!  Dedicated to the Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Release of Raptors, it serves as a community beacon for education and awareness about the native environment of the Pacific Northwest.  A membership helps support education programs, rehabilitation programs, and avian ambassadors while members get to visit as many times as they want throughout the year.  Viewing the majestic and beautiful raptors never gets old, and is a great way to connect with nature and spend time together as a family. Order a membership online. 

 

Do you have a eco-friendly gift idea that's not on the list?  Add it to the comments below, or email kelsey at allears@foxboundflowers.com to add it to the next list!

 

 

 

Most people are happy to accept flowers as a gift because it's the act of giving that counts more than the gift itself.  Even so, there's no reason you can't make the experience as positive as possible.  Whether you're buying flowers for an Anniversary, Birthday, or just because, make sure your flowers are received well by considering the 7 Biggest Flower Buying Blunders.

If you look closely at pictures of flowers in home magazines, you'll notice something they all have in common -  they're keeping it simple.  Choose only 1 to 3 different kinds of flowers for your arrangement.  Arrangements with less variety will be more impactful in any room or office because

 

As floral wholesalers across the country close their doors due to COVID19, domestic flower growers are feeling the strain. Many growers, especially those who grow on a large scale, sell the bulk of their product to wholesale businesses, who then sell it to retail florists. Since the supply chain has been interrupted, many growers are scrambling to get their product directly to florists to recoup their lost sales. This may seem like an easy fix, but growers may struggle to change their sales systems and shipping logistics on-the-go.

Tyler Meskers, Vice-President of Oregon Flowers, Inc. in Aurora, Oregon says before COVID19 80% of their sales were to floral wholesalers. The closing of wholesalers and delivery routes leaves Meskers, who specializes in Lilies and Tulips, with a logistical nightmare, and often leaves costly air travel as the only shipping option. When asked what this means for the future of growers, Meskers says, "Only time will tell. Flowers are still in need, and direct selling is a new way for our business to sell our product. We think our quality will set us apart from other growers". 

My decision to become a 'sustainable' florist was, in part, a reaction to reading Yvon Chouinard's Let My People Go Surfing, in which the author and owner of the Patagonia company shares his philosophies on uniting economic success with environmental responsibility, and proves companies can be successful at both.    After reading the book, I felt inspired to make changes of my own.  As I recalled  the appalling waste which my small shop on the prairie produced, I knew there was endless room for improvement.  The fast-paced days in a floral shop, however, are full of endless tasks to get flowers into the hands of brides, onto the tables of events, and on the caskets of the recently departed.  The required pace made sustainability seem laughable at the time, or impossible.  How could I figure out how to waste less water if I couldn't even figure out how to make time to eat my lunch? I'm no stranger to the many hats a sole-proprietor florist has to wear, all while trying to eek out a meager living on small profit margins. As the owner of a small floral shop in a prairie town, it took me the better part of five years to work my way toward an income I could even admit to, and even when asked I would usually tell others I made a 'teacher's salary'.  The fact that is was more like an Arkansas teacher's salary was a detail that I kept to myself.    After finally reaching a point where I was confident about my income as an entrepreneur, my husband and I uprooted our family from the prairie this spring, and moved to Eugene, OR.  While I was sad to leave my 'child' (my shop) that I had nurtured from it's infancy, I was excited to start a new floral shop in the Pacific Northwest, and embark on a new path in the floral industry.  This time, though, I decided to take a differerent pathway. 

The move across the country gave me an opportunity for a fresh start with my floral career, and as I began planning my next floral shop, Foxbound Flowers, I became determined to make environmental responsibility a priority from the very beginning.  It's easy to preach environmentalism while one is waiting for their business to take off, but much harder to practice when orders are coming in, flowers are flying off the shelves, and deadlines are looming.  Building eco-consious practices in to the business model from the very beginning can help ensure that responsible systems are already in place when the time comes to rely on them.

In this blog, I've used the word 'sustainable' in quotes.  I want to make it perfectly clear that I do not believe I am (yet) a 'sustainable' florist.  In fact, eco-responsible would be more accurate, but this is not catchy, nor would anyone read a blog called the 'Responsible Florist'.  Sustainability is the goal, and someday I hope that I can call myself a 'sustainable' florist without the quotation marks.  It's a long road up ahead, and I'm only at the beginning.