What COVID-19 flower shortage means for your wedding

First it was toilet paper, now flowers are the in short supply thanks to a global pandemic, but creative florists say they’ve got you covered.

FIRST toilet paper, now flowers have become a major commodity during the global pandemic.

With a decrease in international freight movement, florists say the flower market in Australia has been completely up-ended.

It means some wholesale prices have spiked 40-50 per cent and restrictions placed on the number of bunches that can be bought.

Sarah Amey, of Florals and Co. said many businesses were bracing for further shortages when weddings resumed.

She asked brides-to-be to be a little flexible and trust their florists should some adjustments have to be made.

“The problem we are facing is around 70 to 80 per cent of the floral supply in Australia were imports, from Columbia, Canada and France,” Ms Amey said.

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Palm Beach Florist Sarah Amey the stock on offer. Photo Scott Powick Newscorp

“With so many planes flying shipping was around $5 per kilo, but with only a few planes a week air room for cargo is getting out-bidded, meaning flowers come at a cost.”

“Our local growers are also busier than ever, and we haven’t ever started weddings yet.”

Because of the freight hike, Ms Amey said clients were reverting to “amazing greenery, dried pieces, high-quality silks and ornamental grasses” for their “desired look”.

Ms Amey said florists were also foraging for options.

“Unfortunately we have been told by wholesalers this situation will remain until international flights are back to normal.

“I suggest brides approach a florist with their desired colour pallets instead of specific blooms.

“Florists will be out there doing the best they can, foraging in the paddocks with the spiders and getting the best deals early in the morning at the markets. I think it is going to be a very creative period for the industry.”