Bloomin' Blog

Back to School: The Power of Flowers

August 5, 2013 by Ed Belly Leave a Comment

It’s that time of year again, folks. School buses are being fueled, teachers are working hard to prep classrooms and the band, football team, and cheerleaders are beginning all-day practices. Department stores are receiving extra shipments of clothes, backpacks, pens and notebooks, and friends who have been separated for the summer are fervently texting and Facebooking about being reunited.

It’s Back-To-School Time

With the start of classes, it becomes necessary to stop and consider how to make that first day go as smoothly as possible. My first day was always an eclectic mix of being under-prepared, lost and uncomfortable in my new clothes, but I’m sure you’re way more prepared than I ever was. Still, that’s not saying much. You may believe you’ve already got everything you need, but whether a parent, student or teacher, there is most likely one purchase you have yet to make.

The Power of Flowers for Back to School

I’m talking about flowers, of course! Fresh blooms fulfill multiple roles, all of which are perfect for the first day of school:

A Symbol of Love – Flowers have long been held as a symbol of love and friendship. They make the perfect gift for two young, reuniting lovers who have been kept apart by the long summer, (Well played Mom and Dad, well played.) a parent sending an apprehensive child off to a new school, or a teacher whose spouse wants to see them [Read more…]

Filed Under: Flower Suggestions, Seasonal Ideas Tagged With: Back To School Flowers, Gift Ideas

Florist Friday Recap 7/27 – 8/2: Volumes of Varieties

August 2, 2013 by Mandy Maxwell 2 Comments

Are the abundance of tropical arrangements an indicator that the heat of summer is going straight to our florists’ heads? I can’t say for sure, but none of the beautiful work we have to show you in this week’s Friday Recap looks like the result of a sun-addled mind. In addition to the tropicals, we also have a nice selection of sympathy, wedding and everyday floral designs for your perusing pleasure. Enjoy!

Personalized Funeral Flower Photos

Farmer Funeral by ABloom LTD, Walkersville, MD

“Funeral piece for a farmer using a framed print by a local artist. the family LOVED it.”

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Ohio State Funeral Flowers by Back to the Fuchsia, Saugatuck, MI

“A floral tribute made for a tried and true Ohio State Fan.”

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Farmer Funeral Spray by The Flower Shop, Pryor, OK

Best 5 Reasons To Send Flowers In August

August 1, 2013 by Juli Jackson Leave a Comment

The lazy hazy days of summer are in full bloom. August brings 31 days of heat waves and air conditioning worship. Take a refreshing dip into flowers this month and send a tall, cool vase of flowers to someone special.

Here’s our favorite reasons to call up a local florist in August.

#1. August 4th – National Sister’s Day

This is a day to recognize your sister for the role she has played in your life. Even if she stole your favorite clothes or always made fun of your haircut, your sister shaped who you are in a big way. Say “I love you, Sis” with a bright bunch of flowers.

Whether she lives down the street or across the country, flowers are the perfect way to tell her how special and appreciated she is without going to a lot of fuss. Give her a reason to say, “You shouldn’t have!”

#2. August 21 – Senior Citizens Day

Not to be confused with Grandparents’ Day, this holiday honors all individuals who have reached the ripe old age of 65 and beyond. Fresh flowers can be a beautiful and thoughtful way to acknowledge the gifts of wisdom, friendship and support the elderly have given to you and your family over the years.

Think of your favorite neighbor, professor, or family member who could use some cheer. If a parent or friend has only recently hit “qualifying age” this could be a fun opportunity to let them know what they have to look forward to in coming years.

#3. Back To School

Depending on where you live, August means back to the schoolhouse for many students and teachers. If you have a reluctant teen starting a new high school, surprise them with an arrangement sent to the school. Sign the card “From Your Secret Admirer” to give a chance for some good-natured bragging rights. Do you know a hardworking teacher that deserves some motivation? Potted plants delivered by your florist are a great option for teachers to add some life to their new class.

Get the school year started on the right foot by sending flowers to school. This is a fantastic surprise the recipient will never forget.

#4. August Birth Flower: Gladiolus

Perfect for those August birthdays, gladiolus has long been the flower associated with the 8th month of the year. The gladiolus represents sincerity and strong character. The hidden meaning of the gladiolus, adapted in the Victorian era, is “love at first sight.” Gladiolus are tall stately stalks with multiple gorgeous blooms of ruffly petals available in many different colors including orange, red, white, yellow, and pink.

No matter what color you select for your special someone, gladiolus will make a bright bold statement and a memorable birthday wish.

#5. Savor The Last of Sizzling Summertime

This is the time of year where rain is scarce, grass turns brown, and the whole outdoors can really become unbearable on certain days. But before you know it, fall with be here. So enjoy all the hot colors and summer fun that is possible. No matter who you are, there is someone near and dear to you that could use some thoughtful cheer. Offer a lush oasis to enjoy in the middle of a summertime desert.

Send some of these favorite flowers that always bring smiles:

gladiolus
spider mum
bells of ireland
lily
alstroemeria
daisy

Filed Under: Flower Suggestions Tagged With: Best 5 Reasons, Flower Meanings, Flower Sending Tip, Sending Flowers

Regina Berryman to Speak at TNSFA and CTPFA Convention

July 30, 2013 by Ed Belly Leave a Comment

For everyone planning to attend the Tennessee State Florists’ Association and Central Tennessee Professional Florists’ Association‘s annual convention this weekend, make sure you’ve scheduled enough time to watch the presentation being conducted by renowned floral designer and friend of FSN, Regina Berryman, AIFD, AAF, CFD. She has an exciting take that infuses natural principles of art and will help you take your own work to a whole new level!

Introducing Regina Berryman

If you don’t know, Regina is a Brazilian native who came to this country over thirty years ago. While growing up in Brazil, she experienced all different brands of flora and fauna, as well as a vast array of different species of flowers. Her love for their fragile and delicate allure did not diminish when she became an American citizen, and now, through her pursuit of that passion, she studies with some of the finest floral designers in the country!

An accomplished instructor herself, Regina has participated on some very prestigious design teams such as the Presidential Inauguration and The Society of American Florists’ Conventions. If you would like to see some examples, Regina’s work can be seen in our very own Flower Shop Network Flower Gallery!

Fibonacci Theory & Floral Design

Fibonacci Spiral Regina’s exciting theories regarding floral design are based on principles borrowed from an amazing discovery made over 700 years ago called the Fibonacci Theory. The theory was founded by a mathematician named Leonardo Fibonacci who lived in the 12th and 13th centuries C.E., and it can be observed in almost every aspect of the natural world.

I know what you’re thinking, “What does an ancient mathematician have to do with floral design?” Regina can best answer that question for you during her presentation, but the gist is that she uses these mathematical principles and applies them to proportion, ratio and overall aesthetic beauty. The basic concept espouses that although symmetry can be beautiful, true visual pleasure exists in an asymmetrical design partitioned into the proper proportions using a 3-5-8 ratio.

If that peaks your interest, be sure to attend the convention and see Regina Berryman in action as she demonstrates her use of the 3-5-8 ratio in floral arrangement and design.

The TNSFA and CTPFA Convention

C’mon out folks, it’s going to be a great three days and, as always, Flower Shop Network will be there to document all the exciting events!

The convention is hosted by the Tennessee State Florists’ Association and Central Tennessee Professional Florists’ Association, and will begin Friday August 2nd and last through Sunday August 4th at the Embassy Suites in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.

We can’t wait to see you there!

Filed Under: Floral Conventions & Flower Shows, Florists Only Tagged With: Elements of Design, Florists Conventions, Tennessee Florists Association

How to Tell the Difference Between an English Holly and an American Holly

July 29, 2013 by Jamie Jamison Adams

Ask the Expert: “How can i tell the difference between American holly and English holly? The leaves appear the same” – Katrina S.

Plant expert Reply:
Katrina,

It is very difficult to tell American Hollies (Ilex opaca) from English Hollies (Ilex aquifolium). Every resource on hollies will tell you that English Hollies have glossier leaves. Well that is all well and good if you have them side by side, but glossy is a very subjective attribute. For example in the pictures above, I can’t really tell the difference in the glossiness of the leaves. According to the American Horticulture Society, their leaf description is very similar. English Holly leaf – Elliptic or ovate, glossy, dark green leaves with entire, wavy, spine-toothed, or spiney margins. American Holly leaf – oblong-elliptic, spine-toothed or entire, leathery matte, dark green leaves.

Ilex Opaca – American Holly

For me the best way to tell them apart is by the older leaves. The American holly leaves tend to have a dark appearance and a more matte finish. The new leaves will always have a glossy look similar to the English Hollies. I have to be honest, even with this little trick, I have missed the mark a few times. The nice thing about these two types of hollies is that they can be used interchangeably. So unless you are trying to match a replacement shrub you can use which ever one is available.

However, if you are trying to match existing shrubs, the best thing to do is take a small stem with leaves to your local garden center. With your sample they should be able to determine which type you have.

Ilex aquifolium – English Holly

Ilex opaca picture came from Wiki Commons user Dcrjsr ( Jane Shelby Richardson at Duke University)

Ilex aqufolium pitcure came from Wiki Commons user Quartl

Filed Under: Plant Care Questions Tagged With: Ask The Plant Expert, Holly

To Cut or Not To Cut Overgrown Dracaena

July 29, 2013 by Jamie Jamison Adams

Ask The Expert: To cut or not to cut I ask??!

My plant (do not know the name I think it’s in the palm tree family) is reaching my 10″ vaulted ceiling however, it’s bending and very weak. To help support it I used string and thumbtacks and tacked it to the wall. Should I cut the top off? If it is top heavy is it okay to cut? The bark if you would or trunks are thin. Is there a way to help thicken them up? While viewing the photos if you have any advice on this plant I will Thank You in advance.
Hailey

Plant Expert Reply:

Hailey,

You have a very large Dracaena. Yes it is in need of a trim to keep it healthy inside your home.

I took the liberty of altering your photo to show where you can top your plant. If you look at the picture to the right you will see a red box highlighting part of the Dracaena stem. Any where along this stem you can cut the top off the plant. Be sure you cut the stem at a 45 degree angle. This will ensure that the plant will heal correctly with little to no dieback. I like to mist the cut area for a couple days to allow the cut to dry out slowly. Mist it with luke warm water once a day.

You can take the piece you cut off and start a new plant. To do this you will need some rooting hormone. When you cut the top off dip the cut end into the rooting hormone and then stick it into a pot with moist soil. In a few weeks the piece you cut off will form roots thus giving you a new plant.

The old plant most likely will form new growth on the side of the stem where you made the cut. Good Luck and let me know how it does.

Filed Under: Plant Care Questions Tagged With: Ask The Plant Expert, Dracaena

TSFA Convention and Texas Cup Competition

July 29, 2013 by Ed Belly Leave a Comment

The Texas State Florists’ Association held its 99th annual Convention and Trade Show July 12-14 in Mesquite, TX located just east of Dallas. That’s right, the 99th annual convention, and you know what that means, folks. If you missed this year, there’s no way you can let next year slip by as it will be the annual Convention and Trade Show’s centennial celebration! If you were looking for the right year to go, next year is definitely the one! As usual, Flower Shop Network will be there and is always excited to bring you the highlights! Here are some pics from this year’s show.

First off, a photo of our booth. Isn’t that awesome? We’re so organized with our little gift bags in a line around the tables. Good job, Joe Hays! It looks like he’s done this before, doesn’t it?

As with any convention, booths were a big part of the main floor, but it was the amazing classes on offer that really got people excited. With instruction in everything from how to increase business, to Texas-style designs and even how to grow your revenue stream, there was a lot of great information to be had! Still, the free loot you could rack up on booth row was pretty impressive too.

Texas Cup Competition

The event no florist worth her pruning shears would dare miss was the Texas Cup competition. This is an annual part of the show where florists from across the state are given a certain period of time to design and create an arrangement worthy to be crowned the Texas Cup winner! Flower Shop Network slipped in and snapped some candid shots of the top three designs!

Third place was claimed by Flower Shop Network member Martha Wiggs-Aaron of Clear Lake Flowers in Houston, TX. As you can see, she made a beautiful arrangement using sunflowers and yellow roses to give a nod to the rustic roots of Texas. The basket is an excellent touch, and the bird’s nest as well as the wire formed into the state of Texas add all the accent needed. Gorgeous Martha!

Second place was also snagged by a Flower Shop Network member! Man, are our members talented or what? Alan Masters of Compton’s Florist in La Porte, TX submitted this elegant arrangement that almost looks good enough to eat! Are those mushrooms? Wow!

So, who won first place? Drum roll please …

First place was claimed by none other than Flower Shop Network member Rebecca Sherman AIFD of The Blooming Idea in The Woodlands, TX. Rebecca also chose to go with sunflowers, and her creative arrangement turned out wonderfully! Amazing job Rebecca, and congrats on winning the Texas Cup!

Is it just me, or was that a Flower Shop Network trifecta?! Wowza! If you went to the TSFA convention, let us know all about it in the comments below. If not, there’s always next year!

Filed Under: Floral Conventions & Flower Shows, Florists Only Tagged With: Florists Association Conventions, Flower Shop Network, Texas Florists, Texas State Florists Association Convention

Florist Friday Recap 7/20 – 7/26: Week of Wow

July 26, 2013 by Mandy Maxwell 3 Comments

We’ve got some interesting and creative designs in our Friday line for our readers today! Love must be in the air, with all the amazing wedding flowers submitted by Florists across the country. So take a look and don’t forget to tell us which is your favorite in the comments below!

Wedding Flower Pictures

Wedding Bouquets

Eskimo Rose Bouquet by Mystical Gardens, Brunswick, GA

“Love the creaminess of this Eskimo Rose Bouquet”

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Butterfly Bridal Bouquet by Expressions Flowers, Fort Smith AR

“Lovely and creative way to add butterflies into a bridal bouquet.”

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Beautiful Bridal Bouquet by Expressions Flowers, Fort Smith AR

“The touch of blush in this bouquet adds an alluring appeal to this bouquet.”

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Romantic Vintage Bouquet by Blooming Art Floral Design in San Diego

“The cool Water roses, hydrangea and dusty miller wrapped in blue lace are really a creative way to achieve that romantic vintage look.”

Beautiful Bridal Bouquet collage by Mary Jane’s Flowers in Berlin NJ.

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Bouquet by Flower Palette, Abu Dhabi, UAE

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Wedding Centerpieces

“We had so much fun creating these for our bride Lori and her new hubby Steve. Monday Morning Flower and Balloon Co. in Princeton NJ.

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Costal Wedding Reception Flowers on St. Simons Island by Mystical Gardens, Brunswick, GA

“What a creative way to add a unique spin to wedding reception flowers”

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Beach Wedding Flowers Mystical Gardens, Brunswick, GA

“Starfish add a perfect beach element”

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Wedding Tree by Expressions Flowers, Fort Smith AR

“What a creative idea when Robert of Expressions Floral had when he turned this pole in middle of dance floor into a work of floral art.”

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Wedding Tree by Expressions Flowers, Fort Smith AR

“The color and contrast of these wedding reception flowers is breathtaking.”

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Wedding Cake Flowers

Floral Chandelier by Expressions Flowers, Fort Smith AR

“Interesting and exciting way to add flowers to the reception.”

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Wedding Cake with Green Hydrangeas by Expressions Flowers, Fort Smith AR

“Green hydrangeas add such a classic touch to this wedding cake.”

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Funeral Flower Tributes

Purple and Blue Casket Spray with Hummingbirds by Coles Flowers in Middlebury VT

“The addition of hummingbirds to the casket spray is a lovely touch.”

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Yellow and White Sympathy Tribute by Wilma’s Flowers in Jasper AL

“What a serene and beautiful tribute.”

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Everyday Deserves Beauty

A Little Bit of Sunshine by Sarasota Enchanted Flowers in Sarasota FL

“Topiary arrangement always add an interesting element.”

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Tropical design by Budz by Helen Jane, Adlington, Lancashire, UK (One of our international floral friends.)

“A statement box arrangement! my brief was large, stunning and lots of different sorts of flowers!”

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Wonder of Purple and White Bouquet Alicia’s Wonderland, Renton, WA

“Purple and white flowers make a lovely bouquet combination.”

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What will next week bring? Who knows! Be sure to like us on Facebook for even more beautiful floral designs. If you’re a florist, we want to feature YOUR favorite design of the week right here on Facebook Friday Recap! Click here to see past recap posts!

Filed Under: Floral Design Tagged With: Facebook Friday, Floral Design Photos, Flower Pictures, Wedding Flowers

What is this Plant My Renters Left Behind?

July 24, 2013 by Jamie Jamison Adams

Ask the Expert: What type of plant and how to care for it.

Philodendron Makes a Good Houseplant

This plant was left from my renters. The majority of the leaves were lying on the floor. I put two sticks into the pot to try to give the stems support and tied up with ribbon to have it grow up. Is this the correct size and type of pot? Should I leave the leaves where the lay? I rotated pot as to the leaves might rise when sunlight hits it. What is the name of the plant and how should I take care of it? Alexandra Allen

Flower Shop Network Plant Expert Reply:

Alexandra,
It looks like you actually have two types of Philodendron. The nice thing about Philodendrons is their versatility. So in this case, you could either let the leaves trail downward or give them support to grow up. Although the plant seems fine in its present container, you might want to re-pot the plant into a container about half-again as big. Be sure the new container has drain holes in the bottom and that you use a good basic houseplant potting soil.

If your sticks are giving the plant the support they need, keep using them. If you need more support, your local garden center should have plant totems.

Since this plant flourishes in bright, filtered or indirect light, it will thrive indoors. Just place it in a room with moderate light level. It is best not to place it directly in front of a window. Keep the soil moist, but make sure excess water can drain away from the plant. If the humidity level in your house is low, mist the air around the plant with lukewarm water every day at least once. About once a month give the plant a dose of a well-balanced fertilizer.

Hope this information is helpful.

Filed Under: Plant Care Questions Tagged With: Ask The Plant Expert, Houseplants, Philodendron

Don’t Let Parent’s Day Pass Unremarked Again

July 23, 2013 by Ed Belly Leave a Comment

It’s that time again! Woohoo! Alright! Parent’s Day is just around the corner! Well, c’mon everybody why are you just sitting there? It’s Parent’s Day! It’s … Parent’s Day … it … woo? Okay, I know that this holiday still doesn’t have a lot of national traction just yet, but if you’re not familiar, it’s past time to get familiar. This is one holiday to which each of us needs to be paying more attention.

Parent’s Day History

For those of us who don’t know, Parent’s Day was signed into existence by President Bill Clinton in 1994 to be a holiday that, and I’m paraphrasing here, recognizes, uplifts and supports the role of parents. Since that day, the fourth Sunday in July has been designated as Parent’s Day. Think of it as a combination of Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, except that instead of lauding one member of the parenting team, they are celebrated together as a team.

But wait, that’s not all! It also exalts the act of parenting in general. Father’s Day or Mother’s Day can both be used to celebrate the person who was physically responsible for bringing you into this world. Parent’s Day celebrates the one(s) who made the sacrifices, stayed up the late nights, and did everything possible to make your life full. In short, the one(s) who raised you.

Say ‘Thank You’ with Flowers – The Perfect Parent’s Day Gift

Now, as a FlowerShopNetwork.com writer, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention flowers in some capacity within this post. Fortunately for me, flowers are not only an acceptable gift for Parent’s Day, or really any occasion, they are quite possibly the perfect gift.

Flowers symbolize fragile beauty that must be nurtured and cared for in order to flourish. Sound familiar? Is it not a perfect representation of childhood? For after all, what is a child if not the embodiment of fragile beauty in need of nurture? Mature blooms are the result of careful rearing, just as you are the result of your parents’ labors. What could be more perfect than that?

Refuse to let this year’s Parent’s Day sneak past you. The holiday, and your parents, are worth celebrating! Parent’s Day is July 28th — this Sunday! Call your local florist to order your parent’s the perfect gift.

Filed Under: Holiday Info Tagged With: Holiday Info, Parent's Day