There’s been a lot of hubbub lately surrounding the issue of whether it is too early to be stocking up on Christmas fare when it’s only November. Starbucks is the latest culprit who recently launched their “red cup” marketing ploy, which interestingly enough has attracted a large amount of controversial press. Is it wrong to change all accessorized décor color to red and green? Is it pushing things to be lighting up the trees with holiday bulbs? Or how about this one- buying floral centerpieces designed to reflect the Yule Tide season? Is it offensive or simply a show of our adoration for the merriest time of the year?
photo credit: Flower Factor
Personally, my holiday spread is put up a couple of weeks into December and taken down one week after Christmas but that’s just me. I understand that there are many people out there who want to grab every second they can out of the season and I admire you, I really do. But you have to admit, there’s no doubt the ugly head of commercialism does play a part in the mass movement to put Santa Clauses in storefronts even before we’ve celebrated Thanksgiving. Do we actually spend more when influenced by the merchandising of Frasier Firs standing in doorways and twinkling lights dangled across glass display cases? Most advertising business experts agree that inarguable, we do.
photo credit: Flower Factor
So what does that mean for Boston florists who are beginning to bring in shipments of poinsettias, Christmas trees and wreaths? I’d say it’s a pretty good prediction that there will be a solid sales base for the early bird shoppers who can't wait to stock up on seasonal festivities. If customers are eager for holiday pieces but are torn by the issue of the timing possibly being premature, offer them arrangements that include some identifiable props but still can be categorized as appropriate for fall. By not overwhelming clientele with a complete switch to silver bells and frosted greenery, we can make the most of November and December by easing ourselves gently into the holiday season.