Maple Grove Flower Shop Ready for ‘Their Super Bowl’
There are few things in life that convey emotion as well as flowers. Just ask Anna Donato-Ghani, who’s been in the floral business for 36 years.
“Science will tell you that you feel better, and you remember the gift of flowers,” said Donato-Ghani, owner of Donato’s Floral in Maple Grove.
This is a week when people create a lot of those memories.
Whether it’s Valentine’s Day or “Galentine’s Day,” the 14th of February is big business.
“People just like to treat each other and feel good about this holiday,” she said.
Staff members at Donato’s Floral are busy this week doing prep work for the onslaught of orders and walk-ins coming their way.
Stacks of flowers are coming in from places like California, Holland and South America, and it’s their job to create beautiful arrangements for their loyal customers.
“It’s just going to be a fun week,” said Donato-Ghani. “I mean, it might be a little stressful, but we can do it.”
One of the many bouquets ready for Valentine’s Day at Donato’s Floral. The shop is located at 10200 73rd Ave N Suite #102 in Maple Grove.
Prepping for winter weather
With frigid temperatures in the forecast this week, employees like Kristina Parker are taking special care to double wrap the floral arrangements using a paper bag and plastic wrap before they’re sent out for delivery.
“We’ve got like, a hundred or so orders, so we’re gonna be back here constantly,” said Parker.
After all, if people are spending good money on flowers, they don’t want them exposed them to the elements.
“No flowers should ever be exposed in this weather. It’s just like frostbite,” said Donato-Ghani. “But it happens quicker with flowers because they’re moist.”
It’s the kind of service that Donato-Ghani says you’re not likely to get from an online floral retailer, which is why her plea to folks is to shop local.
“You can get flowers anywhere, but community involvement and being in touch with the people in your community is why they come to Donato’s, and that’s super important,” she said.
Meanwhile, Donato-Ghani says that while Valentine’s Day is certainly busy, nothing beats May. That’s when they encounter occasions like Mother’s Day, prom, and bridal showers.
Related: Maple Grove Business: Mother’s Day ‘Busiest Week of the Year’
