SAF in Action
ORGANIZE A SUCCESSFUL PETAL IT FORWARD
> Every October, hundreds of floral professionals across all 50 states step away from their businesses and into their communities for one simple pur- pose: to make someone’s day with flow- ers. Through the Society of American Florists’ annual Petal It Forward initia- tive, participating businesses hand two flowers or bouquets to unsuspecting passersby — one to keep and one to share with someone else. The concept is simple, but the
impact is powerful. Petal It Forward demonstrates what research has shown for years: Flowers improve emotional well-being. Research commissioned by the Society of American Florists has repeatedly demonstrated the emotional benefits of flowers. Studies conducted by Rutgers University found that flowers create immediate happiness and increase life satisfaction, while more recent research from the University of North Florida showed that living with flowers significantly reduces stress.
Whether you’re participating for
the first time or looking to build on past success, a little planning can help your event create an even bigger impact.
Before the Event: Build Your Plan 1.
Scan to register and access Petal It Forward resources
Register. Sign up at safnow. org/pif. Registration ensures your participation is counted as part of the nationwide initiative and gives you access to promotional resources, templates and event support.
2. Map out the logistics. Choose a high-traffic location where your team can comfortably interact with the public. Downtown business districts, parks, shopping centers and farmers markets often work well. Consider the time of day, parking, permits (if required), staffing needs and product availability well in advance.
3. Partner. Petal It Forward is an excellent opportunity to collaborate. Invite neighboring businesses to participate or partner with your local chamber of commerce to expand the event’s visibility.
4. Develop a marketing plan. SAF provides customizable press releases, media advisories, graphics and social media assets that make promotion easy. Announce your participation on social media, invite customers to attend and reach out to local news outlets before the event.
Event Day: Create Moments Worth Sharing Encourage your team to wear branded shirts, available for order at
safnow.org/ pif, so your shop is easy to recognize. A cohesive look helps reinforce your business while making your volunteers approachable. As people walk by, hand them two
flowers or bouquets and explain the concept:
“Research shows flowers make both the giver and receiver happier. We’d love for you to Petal It Forward.”
“We hope this brightens your day — and someone else’s.” Throughout the event, capture
INDUSTRYWIDE IMPACT Kennicott Brothers employees show that floral businesses across every industry segment can participate in Petal It Forward. From left are Mark Wisnevitz, Red Kennicott, Emily Torres (front), Brandon Stevens, Lisa Nason, Gustavo Gilchrist, Terry Ward and Pato Gilchrist (front).
6 FLORAL MANAGEMENT | September/October 2026 |
WWW.SAFNOW.ORG
photos and videos of recipients, volunteers and the reactions that unfold. Share them throughout the day using #PetalItForward, and tag @ SocietyofAmericanFlorists on Facebook
“Please keep one and share the other with someone who could use a smile today.”
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