I wrote about Trader Joe’s in the “Grocery Store Challenge” a few weeks ago. While I was there at 5 pm on a Friday, I glanced at a salesperson sorting through the flowers and making piles of them for what I assumed was a special order. I had an arm full of flowers, but noticed the rose selection was fairly sparse. So I inquired with her about any additional stock- perhaps in the back? No, she said. But if I were to come back on Saturday morning at 8 am, that’s when they put out their largest shipment of fresh flowers. That’s also when florists and event designers come in to pick up their loot, so stuff gets picked over pretty quickly.
I resisted the urge to roll my eyes, smiled and thanked her. I thought of how nice my bed would feel on Saturday morning around 8 am. Nah, I thought. Maybe one day soon.
Well, wouldn’t you know I woke up at 7:30 am on Saturday, all bright-eyed and bushy-tailed? I even rolled over a few times, thinking I might fall back asleep. I couldn’t help but remember her words, which started to replay in my mind. I sprang up, got in the car and arrived around 7:55 am.
I noticed other cars idling in the parking lot when I pulled in. At 7:58 am, a queue started to form in front of the main entrance. By the time they opened the doors, about ten people were eagerly waiting to be ushered in. I regretted the skepticism I had felt the night before.
Not all of them went straight to the flowers, but most of them did. My first stop was the roses since I had had such tough luck the night before. I was not disappointed with the blush, orange and yellow beauties I picked up.
I ended up making four different arrangements with varying personalities.
Could Trader Joe’s be the best flower selection for working gals like me?
With fresh flowers stocked daily at affordable prices and convenient locations, I certainly wonder. They have put on a good show so far. I’ll let you know what I think after the Grocery Store Challenge concludes.