Petal It Forward: Flowers to strangers spread smiles

TAMPA, Fla. - A design studio in downtown Tampa spread hugs and smiles as they gave out flowers to unsuspecting residents as part of "Petal It Forward" on Wednesday. 

The Botanica International Design Studio surprised residents with not one but two bouquets of flowers: one for them and one for them to give away to a loved one, coworker, or even a stranger. 

"University research reveals that flowers have an immediate impact on happiness and a long-term positive effect on moods," the studio said.

"Aside from weddings and events, people love to get flowers 'just because' so we wanted to create random smiles today, and give people a chance to do the same for someone else," said Ian Prosser of Botanica International Design Studio. "The impact of giving or receiving flowers is powerful and memorable," said Prosser. 

Some weren't sure what was happening Wednesday morning at the corner of Franklin St. and kept walking, while many were caught on video with big smiles and even sharing hugs after getting flowers. 

The studio gave away 400 bouquets of flowers altogether as part of the "Petal It Forward" program, which was in partnership with the Society of American Florists.