North Texas Florist Faces First Tariff Bill Ahead of Mother's Day

A Florist's 54-Year Journey

• 🌸 Shirley Tullos-Thurman, owner of Rowlett Florist, is celebrating her 54th Mother's Day in business, serving occasions from funerals to weddings and proms.
• 💡 She shares a fondness for the Gerber Daisy, describing it as a flower that looks like it's smiling.

Impact of Tariffs on Imports

• 📊 The Association of Floral Importers of America states that 80% of flowers in the US, including Gerber Daisies, are imported, primarily from Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, and South America.
• 📈 President Trump's tariffs have resulted in Shirley receiving her first-ever tariff bill, which, though only 5% of orders, significantly impacts business during peak times like Mother's Day.

Customer Support and Business Resilience

• 💖 Customers like Ryan Hanus are choosing to support local florists over larger retailers to help small businesses like Rowlett Florist thrive.
• 💰 Shirley is currently absorbing the tariff costs to protect her customers but acknowledges that price increases may become necessary.
• ✨ Despite challenges, Shirley embodies a resilient spirit, believing in maintaining beauty and a positive personality no matter what life throws her way.