A flower are pictured in a showroom. Local florists are trying to find ways of handling the economic strain of the coronavirus pandemic. Spring is usually “go time” for area florists. From events and holidays to the many weddings held locally, it is often the busiest time of year. Thanks to the coronavirus, however, things are shaping up very differently. Gay Varnadoe, owner of Cottage Flowers on St. Simons Island, was set for a highly successful season. Now, she’s eyeing part time jobs. “This is the time of year that I bank on. The spring is what gets me through the slow summer months as the fall weddings get me through the slow winter months. So I am not sure how I am going to get through the summer yet,” she said. 300×250 image ad While she is still offering contactless deliveries, she’s also looked for positive ways to spend her time. “I have taken this time to get the shop cleaned, pressure washed and organized. I am still making daily deliveries but even that is almost non-existent. With so many people worried about losing jobs, flower arrangements are not a necessity,” she said. “I have a really good friend that has just been diagnosed with cancer and is totally self-quarantined. I am doing all of her shopping and any help I can give. My thought is that maybe others that are in need, so I am willing to pick up groceries, medicine, whatever, for no charge. I have plenty of time on my hands.” Patty Rogers, owner of A Courtyard Florist finds herself in the same situation. The St. Simons Island-based floral designer has seen a significant drop in business since the outbreak began. “Business overall has been dropping over the last several weeks as the spread of […]