Lake Charles Spreads Kindness with “Petal It Forward” Initiative

Residents in Lake Charles, Louisiana, experienced a heartwarming surprise on the morning of October 15, 2025, as the “Petal It Forward” initiative took to the streets. The Flower Shop of Lake Charles, in collaboration with The Ritz Academy and the Society of American Florists (SAF), distributed over 100 bouquets to commuters and community members. This nationwide movement aims to promote kindness and mental wellness through the simple act of giving flowers.

The “Petal It Forward” event encourages florists across the United States to give away free flowers to unsuspecting passersby. Each recipient receives two bouquets: one to keep and another to share with someone else. Austin Ramos, owner of The Flower Shop of Lake Charles, emphasized the importance of creating a ripple effect of kindness. “The concept is to brighten someone’s day by giving them a flower and then offering them a second flower to pass on to someone else,” he explained.

This marks the first time The Flower Shop has participated in the event, which typically takes place in mid-October. The shop’s staff, along with team members from The Ritz Academy, took to various locations in Lake Charles, including The Villages of Imperial Pointe, where they distributed flowers to residents and commuters alike.

Kaila Ramos, owner and executive florist of The Flower Shop, expressed excitement about the collaboration. “We’re thrilled to partner with The Ritz Academy and the Society of American Florists to share the power of flowers,” she said. “In today’s busy world, a simple gesture like giving or receiving flowers can make someone’s day a little brighter, and that’s exactly what this campaign is all about.”

The impact of flowers on mental wellness is supported by research from SAF, which found that 88 percent of people feel happy when giving flowers, while 80 percent report joy when receiving them. “It’s scientifically proven that flowers increase your mood and promote happiness,” Austin Ramos noted. “It just makes you naturally happy, you know?”

The initiative not only aims to spread joy but also highlights the importance of community connection and support through small acts of kindness. As participants experienced the joy of giving, the “Petal It Forward” movement demonstrated how a simple flower can foster connections and uplift spirits, reinforcing the notion that kindness can have a profound impact on mental well-being.