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Rock Out With This Anniversary Flowers Idea

June 11, 2009 by Leave a Comment

If you’re anything like me, concerts are a home away from home. Since the summer is concert season, surprise your wife or girlfriend on your anniversary with tickets to an upcoming concert of one of her favorite artists. It’s very sweet to bring flowers also, not to mention traditional. Even a non-traditional girl will be caught off guard in a good way by the uniqueness of such a romantic gift. Here are some other ideas for incorporating rock concert tickets (or country, jazz, et al) and anniversary flowers into one rockin’ evening.

Tips for Presenting The Tickets With Her Anniversary Flowers:

  • Send flowers on your anniversary date but ask your local florist to incorporate the tickets and the theme of the evening into the design.
  • Arrive on the doorstep with a beautiful bouquet of anniversary flowers, tickets behind your back. Even if you’re used to walking in, ring the doorbell or knock but make sure that she has to answer. She’ll be awed when she sees you standing there holding a gift. She’ll be even more surprised when you reveal the tickets!
  • If the concert is after your anniversary, keep your ticket stub(s). Ask your local florist to put the ticket stubs in the envelope along with the enclosure card. A sweet anniversary enclosure card message ties it all together.
  • At dinner before the show, excuse yourself and discreetly sneak out to your car. From here, place a bouquet of anniversary flowers in her seat along with the tickets. (You can keep it hidden in the backseat or in the trunk but only briefly!!) When you leave, open her door for her. This gentlemanly treat becomes more special when she sees the tickets and the anniversary flowers.
  • At dinner, ask the maitre d’ or your waiter/waitress to deliver the anniversary flowers to your table before the end of dinner. This may require a pre-call to make sure that the staff will agree. It may also require a bigger tip but it will be well worth it to see her face!
  • Any of the above ideas will work, just remember to give her plenty of time to prepare for a rocking night out if the tickets are a surprise.

Now you’re ready for a great show and a great anniversary!

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Discovering The Sego Lily, Utah’s State Flower

June 3, 2009 by 1 Comment

Anyone who has stepped into a flower shop knows what a lily is. However, very few people know about the Sego Lily, Utah’s state flower.

Photo courtesy 50states.com

Photo courtesy 50states.com

Don’t let the name fool you!! The Sego Lily is not a lily at all (does not belong to the Lilium genus). Still, the Sego Lily (Calochortus gunnisonii) is a beautiful wildflower from which much inspiration can be drawn. The flowers are white, lilac or yellow. Pretty enough but what really captures the eye is the center of the flower which has touches of crimson and yellow. It looks almost as if a fire has been lit and extends into white-hot flames. With a look like this, the Sego Lily inspires designs laced with passion, beauty, dimension, color and fervor.

The Story of The Utah State Flower

The Utah state flower has been inspiring Utah florists as the official state floral emblem since 1911. Before this, the Sego Lily was being used in a rather unconventional but lifesaving way. Kate C. Snow, president of the Utah Pioneers, wrote a letter in 1930 describing how early Utah pioneers in the mid 1800s were forced to scavage for food. They discovered that the soft, bulbous root of the Sego Lily could be eaten. Many survived using this interesting flower as sustinence. This effect on Utah’s history was a deciding factor for legislators who declared the Sego Lily Utah’s state flower after the turn of the century.

Strange but cool. Unique but beautiful. That’s why I think all florists will find something inspiring to love about the Sego Lily.

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The Flower Meaning For Aspiring People

May 28, 2009 by Leave a Comment

If you’re happy with the hum-drum, this flower isn’t for you.

"Flower Garden" Arrangement with Alstroemeria

"Flower Garden" Arrangement with Alstroemeria

When looking at flower meanings this month I ran across alstroemeria. I was impressed right away and instantly thought of someone that I wanted to give these flowers to. The flower meaning of alstroemeria is “aspiring.” You know what that says to me? It says that it is time to celebrate someone moving out of the hum-drum and into the ta-da!

I have a friend who just received a promotion. I think her work and her attitude have improved exponentially since starting with that company so I want to let her know how proud I am. There really is no holiday to speak of but there doesn’t have to be. Instead of sending a holiday message to her, I’m making it more personal by sending flowers with a special meaning. This occasion calls for flowers that motivate people with the drive to move forward. She’s that kind of woman so she deserves alstroemeria!

“Aspiring” can mean a lot of things though. This thoughtful gift can be sent to a little boy or girl going through a graduation at school. Many schools have elementary graduations that recognize children moving into junior high. What a perfect time to give flowers! A bouquet of alstroemeria and a kiss on the cheek are enough to make your baby the king or queen of the class.

Alstroemeria

Alstroemeria

“Aspiring” can also work for a suite mate in the dormitory who is a drama major (aspiring actress/actor), business major (aspiring executive), or even a zoology major (aspiring Steve Irwin).

Whatever your friend or family member is into, let them know how proud you are with alstroemeria. Celebrate their ability to move forward in life, to make something of themselves, and to make everyone proud.

Know the meaning of your favorite flower? Share it below along with why this flower is your favorite. Not really sure what the flower meaning is? Ask away! Simply log in and comment below.

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Perennial Flowers For Father’s Day

May 26, 2009 by Leave a Comment

Ask the Expert: What perennial is easy to grow?
I want to give my friend seeds to plant on Father’s Day to remember her Father who just passed away last month.  I think it would be a nice gift if every year she has a flower that blooms and reminds her of her dad.  I was hoping to find a perennial flower that symbolizes rememberance that is easy to plant and grow in the suburbs of Chicago.  She does not have a green thumb so something that basically requires very little or no attention would be preferable.  Does such a flower exist?  Joanna

Plant Expert Reply:

The first perennial that come to mind is the Myosotis (Forget-me-not flower).  This plant has long been used as a short-lived perennial that symbolizes remembrance or memories.  It come in blue, white, blush and yellow flowers. It should be easy to start from seed.

However, there are several perennials I would choose instead of Forget-me-nots.  Although these perennials don’t necessarily have a meaning associated with them, I would choose Balloon Flower (Platycodon grandiflorous), Blanket Flower (Galardia x grandiflora), or Garden Phlox (Phlox paniculata). These perennials are easy grow from seed, fairly easy to maintain and bloom longer than most perennials flowers.

Keep in mind perennials even though they come back every year require a lot of work. Your friend will need to tend to the bed throughout the year to keep it free from weeds. If your friend doesn’t have a green thumb, an annual bed or pot garden might be a better way to remember her dad this Father’s Day. Annual beds and pots are a little easier to maintain because you can start from scratch each year. It could also become a future tradition. She could sow Zinnias which are symbolically used for “Daily Remembrance” in a pot or in an annual bed every year. They are fairly easy to care for and a beautiful way to remember her father.

Whatever you choose for her, I’m sure she will appreciate the thoughtfulness of your gift. Flowers are a wonderful way to help comfort those we love.

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What A Treasure, What A Gemini!

May 20, 2009 by Leave a Comment

Geminis are fun people. Well, at least generally speaking. I have known and loved many a Gemini in my time and continue to fall in love with the unique personality each person has even though many Geminis share the same characteristics.

Born between May 21st and June 20th, Geminis are said to be talkative, energetic and intellectual. Yup, that’s spot on for most of the Geminis that I know. They can also be inconsistent, inquisitive, nervous and tense. Wow…that would be a bad day. I have an idea for curing those woes around their birthday this year. Send flowers! Some examples of Gemini zodiac flowers are:

  • Alstroemeria
  • Solidago
  • Daffodil
  • Cactus
  • Acacia

Truth be told, this idea was given to me last year and I liked it so much that I thought I’d share it again. (You can still view the 2008 zodiac flowers post.) I’m not much on astrology but I do see a lot of fun in sending astrological flowers for a person’s birthday or special day inside the month. It’s always interesting to have something unique to discuss. Bring up the type of zodiac flowers at the birthday party and see if you don’t get a rapid response.

Want to send a unique birthday gift like zodiac flowers but are afraid you’ll offend the recipient. Send birth month flowers instead! All the greatness, none of the guilt!

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The Beauty Of White Peonies

May 15, 2009 by 2 Comments

Despite the wind, the rain (the massive rain) and the unseasonably cool temperatures, my peonies have been beautiful.

Since I like to share, here are a couple pictures from my garden.

White Peony Bloom

White Peony Bloom

When you enlarge the picture you can see the water droplets on the peony petals.

White Peonies In Vase

White Peonies In Vase

I cut five peonies from my garden and placed them in a ginger jar. I made sure to shake out all of the ants first. I love being able to cut flowers from my garden. Fortunately, when I don’t have anything blooming I can turn to my local florist for flowers. I think I’ll use this vase of peonies as my dinner table centerpiece.

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Planting In An Enclosed Three Season Porch

May 15, 2009 by

Ask the Expert: finding plants for an inside garden
We have a garden on the porch which is an enclosed 3 season porch and we live in the NorthEast.  All the previous plants have either died or never flower anymore due to lack of sunlight (even though we have windows entirely around the porch) and we hand water the garden but we need to find plants that would be happy with a drier soil.  The garden has been filled nicely with good soil and was originally an outside garden before we enclosed the patio.  Any suggestions would be appreciated. Lora

Reply:

I assume you want plants that will remain all year long.  This makes it a little more difficult, if the 3 season porch is not heated during the winter. If your garden has enough depth to it, you can plant the following: hosta, liriope spicata, english Ivy, pachysandra terminalis, vinca minor vines.  These plants will give you great foliage with staying power and some will even bloom. For more blooms try: aquilegia, astilbe, dianthus, spotted dead nettles, snowdrops, bleeding heart.  Most of these plants will tolerate low light and drier soil.

I would also try planting New Guinea impatiens, annual impatiens and begonias.  These should be fine for three out of the four seasons.

I recommend dropping by your local garden center and nursery (not a box store) and discussing this with them.  They are your best source for regional plants that will work with your situation.  In fact, I’m sure they will be able to suggested and provide plants that I may not be familiar with.

Good luck and keep me posted.  As you create your new garden I would love to see pictures and learn which plants you choose.

If you need a name of a reputable garden center in your area, let me know and I’ll try to help.

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Boy, Do I Have An Anniversary Gift Idea For You!

May 14, 2009 by Leave a Comment

Flowers are pretty standard as far as anniversary gifts go, but this year why not bump it up a notch? Instead of picking out a standard bouquet for your anniversary, flowers that were in her wedding bouquet add a wonderful dimension of sincerity and romance. Now while it’s not a good idea to deconstruct or  necessarily reconstruct her original wedding bouquet, ask your local florist to use the type of flowers that were in her bouquet in an anniversary arrangement.

Score major points with this idea.

Can’t remember what flowers were in her bouquet? If you’re like most guys, you probably don’t remember what was in her bouquet and had probably all but forgotten that she carried one. No worries. I’ve got you covered.

She could probably tell you but asking her defeats the purpose of being a sneaky romantic. Instead, peer through the wedding photos for a picture of her with the wedding bouquet. Your florist can use this to determine which flowers played the largest part in the ensemble. Make sure it’s a clear picture though.  Plus, be even sneakier by getting the photo during a “baby, take a look at what I just found” evening. You’ll score even more points with her for wanting to relive the day by going through the photo album together! Go you!

Happy anniversary! Don’t forget to stop back by and let us know how it turned out!

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Forget A Birthday? Here’s A Cool Belated Birthday Gift

May 5, 2009 by Leave a Comment

My brothers are hilarious. If you’ve ever seen the hit comedy series Frasier, picture Niles and Frasier at 25 and 23.  Aaron (who turned 25 on the 4th of April) is finicky about his appearance, his preferences, his likes and dislikes. He plays the “big brother” role very well. Mark (my surrogate brother who is 8 days my senior) is also finicky but in very different ways. He’s a “go green” enthusiast, avid vegetarian, and soon-to-be father. Their byplay is priceless and merited a very fun belated birthday gift for Aaron.

Mark forgot Aaron’s birthday this year. Not sure how but it slipped his mind until the following Monday. My sister (22 on the 14th of April) was also forgotten briefly. Feeling horrible for forgetting Aaron’s birthday, Mark brought over the coolest gift ever. I couldn’t  help but laugh. I only wish I’d taken a picture!

Aaron and Mark enjoy gardening. In lieu of some elaborate reparations, Mark brought over a packet of forget-me-not seeds and a small garden shovel. It was too cool! Ok, maybe it’s my warped sense of humor that made me laugh so much when I heard about this belated birthday gift. Something like this is always fun. If you have an equally wry sense of humor and just so happen to forget a birthday, call your local florist. I’m sure they can hook you up with some forget-me-nots for the occasion. Let’s hope you never need this belated birthday tip!

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Break Away From Red Flowers For Mother’s Day–Show Lavender Love Instead!

May 1, 2009 by Leave a Comment
"Lavender Love" Mother's Day Bouquet

"Lavender Love" Mother's Day Bouquet

Ever tried to express lavender love? I would guess not. Red is the color usually associated with passionate love, but that’s not what I want to show my mom for Mother’s Day. My mom deserves something else. Something better. Something more representative of the sweet and nurturing nature of a mother and her child. That’s why I chose the “Lavender Love” bouquet as this month’s featured flower arrangement.

Since we don’t live in caves we all know that Mother’s Day is just around the corner. It’s time to start looking for the best gift for mom this year. The “Lavender Love” Mother’s Day bouquet jumped out at me when I was peering through the fresh flower photo gallery. It’s gorgeous! It has height, style, depth, color, softness, personality–it’s everything I would say about my mother. Well, I’m taller than my mom and I only stand 5’4″ but the rest is true.

Chances are that your mother is totally different than mine. That’s fine! That’s great, in fact, because it provides a dozen new reasons why someone else will like the “Lavender Love” bouquet for Mother’s Day. It’s unique in that it appeals to so many different types of people.

  • Does your mom love Spring? Pastel spring colors and a few vibrant, bold ones pop up in this arrangement.
  • Is your mom the leader of the household? Soften her up a bit with a sweet flower bouquet like this one.
  • Does your mom a real social butterfly who loves hosting parties and get-togethers for the ladies? Give them something to look at during their Mothers Day teas by sending flowers like this gift to your mom’s home. Impressing her friends is a happy side effect of this.

No matter what your mom is like, she’s a great woman who deserves a gift. Right? If you’re in the mood for some Mother’s Day gift ideas, stop here. Take a peek at the “Lavender Love” fresh flowers bouquet and see what you think. Even better, think about what your mom will say when it is handed to her by a local florist with a sweet Mother’s Day card message attached.  Happy Mother’s Day!

Did you send this bouquet for another holiday? Getting ready to send it for Mother’s Day? Let us hear your stories! We want to know what your mother or friend thought of the “Lavender Love” bouquet!

Filed Under: Flower Suggestions, Gift Ideas Tagged With: , , , ,
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