Local businesses prepare for Valentine’s Day

JACKSON, Tenn. — Sand’s Flower Shop owner Chris Maxwell says they’ve been busy since last week, taking orders for Valentine’s Day.

“It’s by far the busiest season of year, and we usually do close to a month’s worth of business in a week,” Maxwell said.

He says flowers have always been a classic go-to gift for women.

“Probably a dozen red roses is by far the No. 1 item that most men pick,” Maxwell said. “They feel like they can’t go wrong with a dozen red roses.”

Other popular gift options include jewelry, stuffed animals or candles.

“Women do get tired of the same thing every year,” Maxwell said. “So our ladies try to encourage the gentleman to get something a little bit different.”

During Valentine’s Day, flowers have always been quite the popular option. But if you’re somebody who has a little bit more of a sweet tooth, another popular option includes plenty of chocolate.

Last year was a busy year for Jackson’s Edible Arrangements store.

“On a normal basis, every day we usually get around 15 orders, and during Valentine’s Day I know last year we had 600,” Assistant Manager Mary Kate Walker said.

Orders have already been coming in from people looking to buy some sweets for their sweethearts.

“Our phone’s been ringing all morning and all last week, but as of right now we have about 150 orders in for Valentine’s Day,” Walker said.

Although buying gifts for loved ones is the norm, Maxwell, who has been with his wife for more than 30 years, says it’s the time spent together that really matters.

“It’s the thought that counts,” Maxwell said. “It doesn’t really have to be the most expensive thing, it’s just she’ll be happy that you just thought of her.”

Although Edible Arrangements said they will take orders on Valentine’s Day, Maxwell says any flower orders can take up to three days to prepare and to make sure to plan ahead.