DeKALB | This Valentine’s Day, students will stop to smell the roses.

Not to mention the carnations, lilies, and an assortment of other flowers.

Local florists are preparing for the Valentine’s Day rush, when NIU students come looking for the perfect gift for their significant other.

“It takes a lot of planning and a lot of organization,” said Sally Mullis, manager of DeKalb Florist and Greenhouse , 2131 E. Lincoln Highway. “We’re not taking on extra help, and we have to work with who we have.”

Kyle Hughes, floral clerk at Schnucks Florist Shop , 975 S. Annie Glidden Road, said preparation is vital for this busy time of the year.

“We try to get as much ready as possible in advance,” Hughes said.

Hughes said mixed bouquets and carnations are popular this Valentine’s Day, but one flower always reigns supreme: The rose.

“We sell thousands of roses for Valentine’s,” said Oscar Hansen, owner of Glidden Campus Florist and Gifts , 917 W. Lincoln Highway.

Hansen said gerbera daisies and lilies are also popular and many people prefer a mix.

“A lot of people buy mixed cut flowers,” Hansen said.

Mullis said DeKalb Florist and Greenhouse sells candy and balloons in addition to flowers, and all three florists offer delivery service.

“We start delivering at 5 a.m. on Valentine’s Day,” Hansen said.

Hansen, who has worked in the floral business for 20 years, said Valentine’s Day has changed over time. He specifically notices that customers tend to be more educated about what they are buying.

“Guys used to be clueless,” Hansen said. “Now they know the names of the flowers.”

Hansen advises potential customers to make their purchases this weekend, instead of waiting for Monday.

“It’s a really weird day for florists,” he said. “When Valentine’s Day is on a Monday, people tend to forget.”