'Experiences over things': Mother's Day is being celebrated differently this year as prices rise

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- You may be paying more for last-minute Mother's Day shopping this year.

As inflation surges, the price of everything is going up, from food and gas to traditional Mother's Day gifts like flowers and chocolate.

Local businesses say they're feeling the financial pressure, too, but they're grateful that there's still plenty of demand this weekend.

"This is definitely our busiest holiday," said Liana Correa, co-owner of Lilyy's Flower Creations in Central Fresno.

Correa spends her days building bouquets, and the only help she has is her fiancé. The pair says they're putting in extra work this year -- with nearly 170 orders placed for Mother's Day.

It's a big investment for a small business, but Correa says they try to keep costs down for customers.

"We try not to increase our pricing too much. With holidays, it's kind of inevitable, especially with flowers," Correa said.

The florist isn't the only local business owner who says they're in that position this year.

Even with 25% more customers this weekend, the owners of Raphio chocolate say they're seeing less business than last Mother's Day.

"I think people are feeling pressure from the prices going up," said Yohanes Makmur, who owns Raphio Chocolate in northeast Fresno.

Still, some loyal customers are turning out to support their favorite businesses, saying money isn't everything -- but mom is.

"I always try to treat her. Whenever I have something to give her, I always try to treat her," said Yeshua Pinal after buying his mom chocolate.