Planning a wedding is already an intricate dance of budgets, timelines, and decisions, but one factor many couples may not consider is how global politics and domestic policies can affect the cost and availability of their flowers. Recent trade tensions with countries like Colombia—one of the largest exporters of flowers to the U.S.—as well as immigration enforcement targeting migrant farmworkers, could significantly impact wedding flower prices and availability. Here’s how these issues might trickle down to your big day.
The Cost of Imported Flowers Rising Due to Political Pressure
I’ve previously discussed how tariffs on imported flowers could driven up costs, but now we’re seeing another layer to this issue. The Trump administration has been pressuring countries to accept deported individuals or face economic consequences, including tariffs on their exports. Countries like Colombia, which supplies a significant portion of the U.S. flower market, especially ROSES, are caught in this political crossfire. If they refuse to comply with U.S. demands, they risk losing their trade advantages, which could further increase the cost of imported flowers.
These aggressive policies mean that wholesalers must navigate even more instability in pricing and supply chains. As a result, florists and couples planning their weddings may see higher costs and fewer options when sourcing their floral arrangements.
ICE Raids and Labor Shortages in the Floral Industry
So if we can't import flowers, then we have to rely on flowers grown here in the States, but the flower industry—both in the U.S. and abroad—relies heavily on migrant labor. Many farmworkers in California, which produces a significant portion of America’s cut flowers, are undocumented or have temporary work permits. With ICE raids becoming more common, including here in San Diego where I’ve personally witnessed agents, many farmworkers are afraid to show up to work for fear of deportation. This could lead to labor shortages, delayed harvests, and in some cases, flowers being left to wither in the fields.
For florists, this means unpredictable supply chains, fewer available flowers, and higher costs as wholesalers struggle to secure labor. For couples, it means potentially fewer options and more expensive arrangements, especially during peak wedding seasons.
What Can Couples Do?
If you’re concerned about how these issues may affect your wedding florals, here are a few steps you can take:
Plan Early: The further ahead you book your florist, the better they can plan for potential shortages or price hikes.
Be Flexible: As our industry tries to navigate these trying times of trade wars and ICE raids be patient and flexible with your Florist. We'll do our best to consider alternative flowers that are in season and locally grown to help reduce reliance on imports and try to navigate any supply chain disruptions here in American due to less labor. Flexibility in flower choices, color palettes, and arrangements will be key in navigating these uncertainties.
Support Local Growers: Working with florists who source from small local flower farms can help mitigate some of the risks associated with international trade disputes and labor shortages, but please keep in mind these smaller operations may not always have the product needed to produce large events.
Talk to Your Florist: I can't stress enough, now is the time to hire an EXPERIENCED Florist. A knowledgeable florist will have insights into how the industry is being affected and can help you find creative solutions that fit your vision and budget.
Final Thoughts
Wedding flowers are more than just decorations; they are a symbol of love, growth, and beauty. However, their availability and cost are deeply connected to larger economic and political forces. By staying informed and working with experienced florists who understand these challenges, couples can still have breathtaking floral designs without unexpected stress or cost overruns. If you’re getting married in San Diego or anywhere else affected by these issues, reach out. While I've been accused of being a terrible person and spreading fear, really I'm just trying to inform and keep couples up to date on how all these political policies affect our indstury. I'll always contintue to do my best to source and navigate the shifting landscape of the flower industry. And go above and beyond for my clients!
Now more than ever....Peace, Love, and Flowers my friends!
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