By Sean Copeland, Contributing Writer
Roses are red, and violets are blue, and…well, you know the rest.
It’s that time of year when pink and red hearts are showing up everywhere. Flowers, candy, jewelry, and other love-themed gifts continue to be popular for Valentine’s Day. According to the National Retail Foundation, this year, flowers will make up about 39% of holiday purchases.
Whether you’re buying flowers and gifts for your significant other, family, and friends or just want to shower yourself with love, florists are getting ready to face one of their busiest times of the year. Instead of going to a supermarket or big box chain, how about supporting a Black-owned Detroit floral shop this year? There’s never been a better time to support Black-owned businesses, and diversity continues to be an issue in the floriculture industry, with Black florists only making up about 4% of the demographic in the U.S. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular florists in the Detroit area and what they’re offering this Valentine’s Day.
Brazelton’s Floral
Brazelton’s Floral is one of the most respected floral shops in the city. Originally founded by Edgar Brazelton Jr, Brazelton’s has been serving generations of Detroiters since 1941. At the request of the community, they reopened to serve the city and the larger community. Currently run by Brazelton’s daughter, Alice Brazelton-Pittman, the store is located at 2686 W. Grand Blvd. in Detroit. Leading up to Feb.14, hours for the shop are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday, with Sunday hours to be determined. Specials include a dozen long-stem red roses for $80. Many other special bouquets will be available and can be found on their website at brazeltons.com.
Ashley’s Flowers
Ashley’s Flowers is located in downtown Detroit inside the Millender Center at 333 E. Jefferson Ave. The shop is named for its namesake, Ashley Alexander, and has been in business for around 32 years. Hours leading up to Feb. 14 are Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. The shop will be closed on Sundays. Arrangements are generally priced from $50 – $250. For holiday specials, visit their website. The shop prides itself on being relevant and trendy and continues to release new designs. To accommodate those who may want floral choices outside the traditional holiday flowers, Ashley’s is featuring tropical arrangements for sale in February. For more information, please visit ashleysflowers.com.
Red Rose Florist
Red Rose Florist will celebrate its 20th Anniversary in July. Stan and Deborah Nelson are the owners of this quaint floral shop is a family-owned and operated business. Started in the Book Tower in 2004, the current location is in downtown Detroit inside the One Campus Martius building at 123 Monroe St. Hours are from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. On Feb. 13 and 14, the shop will have extended hours from 10 a.m.- 8 p.m. Readers can mention Michigan Chronicle to receive a 10 percent discount off floral arrangements. Specials include a dozen red roses with a medium vase for $64.99. Additionally, a dozen red roses wrapped in paper are priced at $49.99. Greeting cards are also available for purchase. Orders can be placed online at redroseflo.com.