Delivering smiles with flowers

NORWALK — On Oct. 15, a local business took part in a national initiative to make a positive impression on people. Petal Pushers by Mandy, which is owned by Norwalk resident Mandy Stoll, joined dozens of florists and floral businesses across the nation in a kindness campaign. Officially known as Petal It Forward, which is organized by the Society of American Florists, it's "designed to help people start their day with more smiles and less stress," according to a statement summarizing the initiative. Stoll and her "do-it-all sidekick," Ella Stieber, presented 40 wrapped bouquets to unsuspecting community members simply to brighten their days. Stoll and the initiative pointed out many studies showing how receiving flowers can lower stress levels and make the individual much happier. Both Stoll and Stieber visited local areas where Petal Pushers often does business — including Milan, Norwalk and Sandusky — presenting two free bouquets to each selected individual: • One to keep • One to distribute, such as to a friend, family member, colleague or even a stranger Stoll and Stieber received overwhelmingly positive feedback. "This was honestly so fun, surprising people with flowers," Stoll said. Beyond the 40 bouquets, Petal Pushers also donated 20 potted plants to the Cleveland Clinic for breast cancer patients. October marked Breast Cancer Awareness Month.