Straight to the heart

By Lia Bichel
FLORISTS will be playing cupid this Valentine’s Day when Dandenong residents line up to score the perfect gift for that special someone.
Jacqui Skeet, who works at Dandenong flower shop Select Flowers, said staff would have an early start of about 5am to ensure customers could choose from a wide selection of flowers and gifts.
“We will be working long hours. There are a few people that forget and come in late,” she said.
“We are dealing with men!”
Ms Skeet said the most popular choice was the traditional dozen of red roses.
But she encouraged people to try something new.
“Lillies last a lot longer and have a nice perfume, and orchids are nice as well,” she said.
“Teddy bears and balloons are also a good option.”
Ms Skeet said children and ladies would also be picking up gifts for their Valentine.
“Every year we see more and more women buying flowers or toys for their partner,” she said.
“Many kids are picking up gifts for their mums too.”
Ms Skeet said while there were a few people who went to the shop with love on their minds, there were some who wanted revenge.
“We have a lot of people sending secret admirer gifts but we have also had people ask us to send flowers without the head on it,” she said.
Ms Skeet encouraged residents to get their orders in early to avoid missing out.