Mother’s Day sales expected to decline slightly 

OHIO — With Mother’s Day weekend here, small businesses across the state are expected to be busier than usual.

The National Retail Federation predicts consumers to spend nearly $33.5 billion in 2024. That’s a little less than last year, but the second highest since the start of the pandemic. 

With flowers being the most popular item this year, floral businesses are doing their best to keep up with orders, despite higher prices. 

“Inflation has really played a major part in how you order,” said Carol Ruffin, Blossoms Florist owner. “Because you don’t want to go buy a truckload of stuff and have to eat it. So pretty much everything you have to preorder here.”

Greeting cards, jewelry and electronics are other items that are expected to be top sellers this year.