Mother’s Day is one of the busiest and most profitable times of the year for florists. With so many last-minute shoppers and a wide variety of preferences to accommodate, offering quick and convenient grab-and-go options, or “take-outs,” can make all the difference. These thoughtfully curated, ready-to-go gifts ensure your customers leave with something special, even if they’re short on time.
By stocking a diverse range of take-out items, from fresh-cut wrapped bouquets to themed baskets, you’ll provide solutions for every customer while increasing your shop’s sales and efficiency. Here’s how to make Mother’s Day take-outs a cornerstone of your floral business.
Creating a Cash-and-Carry Display
An attractive and well-organized cash-and-carry display is essential for showcasing take-out items. Place this display near the entrance of your shop to immediately catch the eye of busy shoppers. Use clear, bold signage to highlight it as the go-to spot for quick Mother’s Day gifts. Labels like “Grab-and-Go Gifts” or “Ready for Mom” make it easy for customers to understand the purpose of the display. Have as many selections elevated close to eye level for maximum sales.
Ensure the display is fully stocked throughout the weekend, as last-minute shoppers often flock to stores on the Friday or Saturday before Mother’s Day. A vibrant, inviting arrangement of flowers and gifts will attract attention and keep your shop buzzing.
Grab-and-Go Fresh Flowers
Fresh-cut flower bouquets are perennial favorites for Mother’s Day. These quick and easy options allow customers to walk in, select a beautifully arranged bouquet, and leave with a gift that feels personal and thoughtful. Studies by the Society of American Florists (SAF) show that loose flower bouquets are among the top sellers year-round, making them a reliable choice for your cash-and-carry section.
To stand out from grocery stores and big-box retailers, ensure your grab-and-go bouquets are wrapped in colorful tissue paper or cellophane, tied with elegant ribbons, and include a small gift card. Offer a variety of styles, such as classic roses, cheerful daisies, or pastel arrangements, to cater to different tastes. Provide options at multiple price points, from budget-friendly bouquets starting at $15 to premium arrangements with additional blooms or greenery.
Offering Customization Options
For customers who want to personalize their gifts, consider pairing grab-and-go bouquets with empty vases displayed nearby. By offering a variety of vase styles and sizes, you give shoppers the flexibility to create a more customized gift package. Staff members can assist with arranging the flowers in the chosen vase, adding a personal touch to the experience. Make sure the vases are priced for easy decision making.
Additionally, offer loose flowers in buckets for customers who prefer to build their own bouquets. Include a mix of popular blooms and complementary greenery to make the selection process easy and enjoyable. This hands-on option not only engages customers but also often leads to larger purchases. Have per stem prices in each bucket or vase or an easy to view pricing sign. Some clients like to peruse at their own pace and not ask a lot of questions.
Your Floral Designs
Plan what you will display in your refrigerator for premade floral designs. Have a variety of price points including some high-end designs ($300.00-$600.00). “If you don’t show it, you won’t sell it.” This should be a living catalog of your mother’s day website selections as well as unique and special one of a kind designs. Closer to the holiday display them in your shop out of the cooler. The cooler protects the life of the flowers but can be a barrier for sales. If possible, group by color so it will have a better visual impact for shoppers. Have discreet, easy to view price tags on each design.
Combining Flowers with Gifts
Take-outs don’t have to stop at flowers. Combining floral arrangements with thoughtful gift items can elevate your offerings and attract a broader audience. For example, pair small bouquets or corsages with items like jewelry, candles, candy, gourmet items or music boxes. Gift sets that include flowers alongside practical items, such as gardening tools or aprons, make excellent choices for moms who have specific hobbies.
For higher-priced items, consider adding a “gift-with-purchase” promotion. For instance, offer a complimentary mini bouquet or corsage with any purchase over $150.00. This strategy encourages customers to spend a little more, increasing your average transaction value.
Highlighting Plants and Baskets
Blooming plants and themed gift baskets are timeless Mother’s Day options that can be pre-assembled for convenience. Arrange baskets with potted plants, seed packets, and small gardening tools, tied together with a bow and a gift tag. These baskets appeal to customers looking for practical, longer lasting, yet beautiful gifts.
Heart-shaped topiaries and herb baskets also make excellent take-out items. Highlight their ease of care with small tags or signs, and offer them in various sizes and price ranges to fit every budget. For those who prefer permanent options, include artificial arrangements or decorative items like wreaths in your take-out lineup.
Preparing for Last-Minute Shoppers
Many Mother’s Day shoppers are pressed for time and appreciate the ease of pre-packaged gifts. Keep your take-out section well-stocked, and replenish items frequently to meet the demands of late buyers. Ensure your display is organized and easy to navigate, so customers can quickly find what they need without feeling overwhelmed.
But beyond just offering grab-and-go bouquets, make last-minute shopping irresistible with smart promotions:
- After 4 PM Specials – Encourage late shoppers to buy by offering small discounts or free upgrades on select arrangements.
- Buy One, Get One for Grandma – Upsell by offering a free or discounted second bouquet when purchasing one for Mom.
- Limited-Edition “Last Chance” Designs – Feature exclusive ready-made arrangements only available for those shopping in the final hours. Scarcity creates urgency!
Train your staff to assist customers in selecting the perfect take-out gift. A friendly, knowledgeable team can make all the difference in turning a rushed visit into a positive shopping experience.
Have bags, boxes, wrapping materials, and flower food packets ready to use to make it easy for your clients to walk away with or secure their purchase in their car.
Turning Convenience into Sales
Mother’s Day take-outs offer a unique opportunity to meet the needs of time-strapped customers while showcasing your shop’s creativity and quality. By providing a variety of grab-and-go options, from fresh-cut bouquets to themed gift sets, you’ll not only increase sales but also ensure every customer leaves with a gift that delights their mom.
With thoughtful preparation and a focus on convenience, your shop can become the go-to destination for last-minute Mother’s Day shoppers. Celebrate the season with beautiful, ready-to-go creations that make moms—and customers—feel truly special.
Strategic Pre-Selling & Urgency
Don’t wait for Mother’s Day weekend to start selling—build demand early with a pre-order strategy that drives sales before the rush even begins. Offer an exclusive incentive for early shoppers, such as:
- A discount on pre-orders placed by May 5th
- Priority pickup or delivery slots for early customers
- A bonus gift (mini bouquet or floral add-on) for orders over a certain amount
Use email marketing, social media, and in-store signage to push pre-orders and make sure customers know that waiting until the last minute could mean missing out on the best selections.
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