Petal it Forward is Oct. 20 — just three weeks away. It’s not too late to participate in this feel-good event where participants hand two flowers or bouquets to an unsuspecting stranger, urging them to keep one and share the other with someone else. The Society of American Florists has tips to help you plan for the event, guide you during the event, and suggestions of what to do after the event to make sure you get the most from it.

Before the Event

• Partner with your wholesaler or supplier to see if they’d like to be part of the event, by providing special pricing on product and helping hand out product.
• Utilize SAF’s templates, including outdoor signage, masks and flower cards to encourage physical distancing while still hosting a fun and successful event.
• Reach out to media outlets to inform them about your upcoming Petal It Forward event. See how past Petal It Forward participants have used the event to increase their shop’s exposure in the community.

During the Event

• Have your team utilize these messages when handing out flowers.
• Take photos of your event and encourage flower recipients to take photos as well and. share them on social media. Use these suggested posts with the hashtag #PetalItForward.
• Remind your community that they can spread happiness all year by visiting your shop.

After the Event

• Reach out to your local news station or send out press releases to inform them of your local Petal It Forward event. Click here for a sample press release that you can customize.
• Send an email with photos and a description of your Petal It Forward event to the local newspaper.

Click here for more tips on hosting a Petal It Forward event this year, and don’t forget to register your business for the event so SAF can provide more support to your team!

Stephanie Brady is the communications and event coordinator for the Society of American Florists.