Looking for a colorful plant or flowers, or a signature fruit basket for an anniversary, wedding, or other special event? Maybe you just want to celebrate a special someone or a moment in time. If so, consider shopping at The Coop. The staff at the Coop Food Stores will be delighted to work with you to create a special arrangement. If you prefer, you can choose from their terrific selection of popular premade gift baskets.

For floral arrangements that will draw oohs and ahhs from recipeients, choose from the Coop’s selection of florist-quality flowers year-round; many are grown right here in the Upper Valley. For a wedding, a celebration of life, or other special event, the Coop suggests you call ahead so the florists can create exactly what you want.

“We try to bring in as many local cuts or plants as we can,” says Alison at the Lebanon Coop as she takes an order. She notes that local is key and highlights a few of the many local producers. Standing by, Sandy helps put together a presentation bouquet for the youngest star in a local play.

The many hard-working local producers include Cottonstone Farm in Orford, New Hampshire, which delivers brilliant poinsettias at Christmas and amazing tulips in spring. Talking Well Farm in Post Mills, Vermont, has stunning lilies, and if peonies are your thing, look no farther than Schoolhouse Gardens in Orford, New Hampshire. High Meadow Farm in Poultney, Vermont, grows fantastic herbs, offering rosemary, sage, thyme, and many more. And be sure you don’t miss the hardy plants from the Piermont Plant Pantry located in Piermont, New Hampshire.

The best part? All this local bounty can be yours without traveling around the Upper Valley! Just stop at one of the Coop Food Stores in Lebanon or Hanover, New Hampshire, or White River Junction, Vermont. Whether you want flowers for a special friend or just to grace the dinner table, or you need a centerpiece for a memorable event, head for the Coop’s Floral Department and let them create the perfect arrangement for you while you help support your farming neighbors who work hard to beautify our lives.

“The focus is on local, all across the Coop,” says Alison. The team seeks variety everyday, and, even better, “Good customer service is the hallmark of the Coop.”