Winchester florist prepares for Valentine’s Day rush as last-minute shoppers arrive

WINCHESTER, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — With Valentine’s Day just a day away, local businesses are gearing up for one of their busiest times of the year — and a popular Winchester flower shop says it’s all hands on deck.

At The Craft Nook, staff members are working long hours arranging bouquets, stocking gifts, and preparing for a surge of last-minute customers looking for the perfect way to celebrate.

A busy week behind the scenes

Inside the shop, rows of flowers, candles, wreaths and handmade decorations have transformed the space into what many customers describe as a floral wonderland.

Employee Juanita Sheely, who has worked at the shop for 27 years, said preparation for Valentine’s Day starts well before February.

“Busy all week getting ready — cutting flowers, bagging fresh roses, stuffed animals, candy and more,” Sheely said. She added that wreath-making has become one of the most popular trends during the holidays.

Owner Dave Mullen said the planning process actually begins months in advance.

“There’s a lot of planning — deciding how many flowers, what varieties we need, and ordering everything early to make sure it arrives on time,” Mullen said. “There’s a lot of work involved before Valentine’s Day.”

Loyal customers and last-minute reminders

Longtime customer Randy Todd said he continues to return to the shop year after year — even when buying something simple like a single rose.

“I enjoy coming here because Dave and I are personal friends and I’ve done business here for a long time,” Todd said, adding a bit of advice for other shoppers: “He shouldn’t forget that it’s Valentine’s Day.”

Employees say what sets the business apart is the experience it creates for customers — something Sheely says keeps her coming back to work every day.

“Every woman I work with is wonderful and I love my customers,” she said.

Final push before the holiday

As the countdown to Valentine’s Day continues, shop owners say their focus is on quality and making each gift feel special — whether it’s a classic bouquet or a handmade craft.

And for anyone still searching for the perfect present, staff say the clock is ticking — but there’s still time to spread the love.