A few years ago, I did a florist design show at a local wholesale house here in my home city of Edmonton Alberta Canada. It was pretty well attended by a lot of florists in the area. I brought one of my employees, Roselle, to help me execute a bunch of ideas that I had. It was a fall and Christmas show. Basically, we make things and show florist different ideas and techniques. Well, for a few years I had been designing what I called at the time the Dr. Suess Tree. (wasn't thinking of copy rights at the time but have changed it to the Who Tree since) I designed the tree to help me use non traditional Christmas colours that were in my cooler at Christmas time that I didn't want to throw away. The funniest thing happened, it became a super popular seller! Not one to hide things, I decided to share this idea with the crowd at the show and they went forth and either used the idea or not. So, a few years later now, I was reading the local paper this weekend and low and behold.....a flower shop here is featured with a half page article about this tree! They describe how it is the most popular seller for them and how they make many versions of this amazing and whimsical tree! I was flabbergasted. You cannot imagine my excitement that someone took my idea and ran with it!! It is so great that this happened! I am truly honoured at this. It made me smile and goes to show you that ideas are meant to be shared for the good of the industry! If people are excited about flowers than we all win!

Roselle helping me with the tree at the design show!

This is this years design!
The Beary Nice Christmas Tree!

Fun and Fascinating Facts About Flowers

Have you ever spied a tiny wild strawberry blossom growing in your yard and questioned if there could possibly be a smaller flower? Perhaps you have pondered if any bloom could be larger than a giant sunflower nodding its head in the summer wind. You may be surprised by just how small, smelly, huge, dangerous, and edible some flowers can be.

World's Smallest Flower

The world’s smallest flowering plant is of the Wolffia genus, commonly known as watermeal. These tiny plants are nearly microscopic. A single plant weighs about the same as two grains of salt. Several individual blossoms can easily fit inside the eye of a needle. As a type of duckweed, they flourish in stagnant or slow-moving waters, such as ponds and streams. Watermeal is surprisingly high in protein and is often eaten as a vegetable.

World's Largest and Smelliest Flowers

Ironically, the world’s largest flowers also emit the foulest fragrance. Though they are unique in size and appearance, the smell of these flowers may be enough to convince the sensitive human nose that bigger isn't always better.

·        Largest single bloom

            The world’s largest flower also proudly claims title to being the smelliest. This stinky behemoth can stretch to an astounding 3 feet in full bloom. Its natural habitats are the warm tropical forests of Indonesia and Malaysia. Though the scientific name is Rafflesia Arnoldii, natives familiar with the stench refer to it as the “corpse lily.” An apt name for such an unpleasant fragrance!

·       

Tallest

            A similarly large flower, Titan arum, is also found in Indonesia's rain forests. Like the stinking corpse lily, it attracts bees for pollination by emitting an unpleasant odor. In fact, its alternate name is similar too, as it is often referred to as the “corpse flower.” Titan arum can tower up to 12 feet and weigh 170 pounds.

The overwhelming smell of these "corpse" flowers have even caused people to pass out from getting too close!



Deadliest Flowers     



Oleander Flower



It may be disconcerting to learn that some of the loveliest flowers are also the most dangerous. Cascading Angel's Trumpet, delicate Lily of the Valley, and fragrant and colorful Daphne can all be deadly to humans and animals if ingested. The lovely pink petals of the Oleander flower disguise the fact that it is one of the most poisonous plants on earth. The entire Oleander plant contains toxins that can affect the cardiovascular, digestive and nervous systems simultaneously. The potency of these flowers proves that lethal things can come in deceptively pretty packages.

Tastiest Edible Flower



As everyone's taste differs, what one person believes to be the tastiest among edible flowers may contradict another’s opinion. Calendula, or marigold, flowers have a flavor that can range from spicy to bitter. They can be sprinkled on soup, salad, rice and pasta. Carnations have dramatically sweet petals that are often used in wines and desserts. Dandelions, those weeds so prevalent spring through summer, have buds that are honey-like in flavor. They are used to make wine and add unique flavor to salads and other dishes. The use of edible flowers in dishes and as a garnish is experiencing a recent resurgence in the culinary world. Other edible flowers include jasmine, lavender, clover, begonia, chrysanthemum, and the day lily. The list of edible flowers is quite extensive. Try one sometime. You might just like it!

A Black Rose?



Nope, it doesn't exist. In fact, you won't find a totally black flower of any type. Black doesn't seem to be nature's color for flowers. What many florists or gardeners may refer to as a black flower is actually an extremely dark shade of purple. Adding black accents to a bouquet with dark purple flowers, can give it the effect of looking black. 

I hope you learned a little something. You never know when trivia will come in handy!



The Link between flowers and mood

The Link Between Flowers and Mood

Flowers have a bit of a reputation for brightening up the surrounding environment, whether it is an office or a blossoming field of color, but how much of an impact do flowers actually have on an individual’s mood? According to recent research conducted at Scotland's Strathclyde University, flowers can actually have a positive effect on the mood state of individuals who are surrounded by flowers. Additionally, the joyful effects of flowers are noticeable almost immediately.

The Value of a Smile

A multi-faceted nine month behavioral study observed the feelings and behavioral responses of recipients who were given flowers as gifts. There was a universal positive reaction to receiving flowers across all participants in all age ranges. Researchers were able to observe "true" smiles upon receiving flowers. True smiles are distinguished by the use of particular facial muscles which are not activated during "fake" or insincere smiles, and trained researchers can easily detect the difference between the two.

The study also featured a long-term exposure to flowers, which was reflected by an equally long-term positive change in mood. Some participants self-reported negative feelings, including depression, prior to receiving flowers and later indicated a change to more positive feelings after receiving a gift of flowers. Overall ratings of life satisfaction actually increased.

Strengthening Bonds

Those giving flowers also reported positive feelings. Additionally, results of the study indicate that giving and receiving flowers can play a critical role in cementing the bonds between different family members. The researchers examined contact maintained between family members before and after a flower-oriented transaction, and an increase in family contact was noted after flowers were given or received.

The study also focused on the interaction between participants and flowers in the home environment. Flowers were put on display in the participant's home in open and heavily trafficked areas, and long lasting positive feelings were noted in these participants. The study also focused on positive experiences that guests had while visiting the homes of participants keeping fresh flowers in areas open to guests, and these guests reported increased and long lasting feelings of sharing and comfort after visiting these homes.

Conclusion of Study

The conclusions reached by the researchers at Strathclyde University over the course of the nine month study support the integration of flowers into all environments, including the home, office, hospitals and clinics, and businesses. As an application, businesses could use floral arrangements to create more open and trustworthy impressions on clients. The results also support the previously suspected benefits of giving flowers to loved ones and significant individuals. The positive mood changes could benefit individuals in everyday life, grief, sickness, and a myriad of other situations. This could contribute to the reported benefits of "get well" and sympathy floral arrangements. The effects examined were nearly immediate and long lasting, and no negative effects were reported. Changes occurred in thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, meaning that flowers are an inexpensive and completely positive gift. Thanks to online ordering and easy access to local flower shops, using flowers to bridge family gaps and improve life satisfaction is easier than ever.

The Romantic History of the Rose

A Timeless Treasure: The Romantic History of the Rose

It is easily arguable that no single flowering plant has influenced civilization throughout history more than the rose. This flower, in all of its many varieties, has consistently been a central symbol for mankind in a wide range of areas, including mythology, art, religion, war, politics, medicine, music and love. With over 30,000 varieties in cultivation worldwide today, its beauty and fragrance still exert a powerfully historic sway over human emotions and creative outlets.

The Age of the Rose

Based upon fossil evidence found in Colorado and elsewhere, the rose genus is at least 35 million years old. The original rose habitat spread throughout all of the Northern Hemisphere as far south as Mexico, where some 150 different wild species can still be found growing in these areas today. The oldest identified wild rose still presently growing is the French rose, whose habitat ranges throughout central and southern Europe and western Asia. Although its exact origin has yet to be confirmed, traces of its presence appeared as early as twelfth century B.C. in Persian records that referred to it as a symbol of love. As near as anyone can determine, the human cultivation of roses began approximately 5,000 years ago in the area of Asia that is now China.

Ancient History

Throughout ancient history, the rose played a prominent role in everything from mythology to architecture. It was recorded in a Greek myth that it was Aphrodite who first gave the rose its name after it was created by the goddess Chloris. In an ancient Hindu legend, it was relayed that the god Brahma created the goddess Lakshmi from 108 large and 1,008 small rose petals. In ancient architecture, the rose played a central role in the detailing of sculptures, columns and wreaths for many civilizations throughout the world.

War and Peace

One of the more fascinating aspects of rose history is the prominence the flower gained as a symbol of excessive wealth and power as it became more widely cultivated. Confucius wrote in approximately 500 B.C. about roses growing in the Imperial Gardens. During the Han dynasty, these gardens grew so large that they threatened land needed for producing food. Not surprisingly, much the same thing happened during the Roman Empire. While peasants were starving, the rulers used much needed food land to grow roses so they could fill their baths and fountains with rose water, sit on carpets of rose petals during feasts and create perfumes. Later, the rose became a central symbol for both sides in the fifteenth century struggle for power over England during the War of the Roses.

Throughout the Ages

It is without question that the most enduring aspect of the rose throughout history has been its use as a symbol of love. From ancient times to the present, the rose has represented everything from undying devotion to friendship and everything in between. The rose always has been, and probably always will be, the ultimate symbol used to reflect love in stories, art and music.

How to be "hip" when giving flowers!

Giving flowers as gifts is a great idea. However, many floral gift givers are generally a little unsure what type of arrangement is appropriate or meaningful for a particular occasion. Your florist can guide you to be the savviest most sophisticated gift giver of all time.

Did you know that 88% of people agree that a gift of lowers changes your mood for the better? Also, did you know that 83% of people like to receive flowers when they are unexpected? And that 89% of people think people of give the gift of flowers is sophisticated. Oh…and one more little know fact, men do like to receive flowers! When giving flowers to a man, choose bold flowers like a bird of paradise or bold colours like Red or Orange. That is a sure way to get their attention.

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Say it With Flowers

The Society of American Florists' research showed that there are five basic reasons why people send flowers: To say I'm sorry, thank you, get well, and to express congratulations or sympathy.

I agree with this and here are some suggestions about what to use flowers for.

• To say “I'm Sorry,” I suggest a nostalgic arrangement with lavenders and pinks, followed by a phone call.

• To say “Thank You,” I suggest a casual arrangement of hand-picked flowers. Use the accompanying card to express what you have difficulty saying in person.

• For “Get Well” wishes, select a variety of calming colors, such as blues, shades of green, and other serene hues.

• For “Congratulations,” “Welcome Home,” or “Great Job” messages, I suggest bold, bright, and contrasting colors.  Playful and fun-loving are the orders of the day for this occasion. In addition, you could request an appropriately whimsical container that represents the occasion.

• To express sympathy for the loss of a loved one, flowers are usually sent to the funeral home. Or, if a service isn't planned, the arrangement should be sent to the bereaved person's home. Your local florist will gladly assist you in the proper selection. For an added personal touch, they can incorporate a personal item of the loved one into the flowers. I did this when my grandpa passed, he made my son a little school desk so I used that to put a design in.

Other Occasions and Situations

Additional situations when flowers are appropriate include to the hostess of a special occasion just prior to the party, or a simple "just because" bouquet to tell someone that you care and are thinking about them. Have your florist design a European Hand Tie for the host of a dinner party. No designing is required as you just untie it and it falls into place. This lets the host bring out a favorite vase of theirs they may not have used in a while.  For floral arrangements given to a hostess, try to match the colors and type of flowers to the hostess' decor. For "just because" bouquets, try to send them in the middle of the week to add a special element of surprise.

Many people are unaware of the fact that florists are specially trained to create floral arrangements and bouquets suited to various occasions. I really suggest that you get to know your local florist. Knowing you personally will help the florist to create a flower arrangement that perfectly portrays your personality.

I always make sure to bring a bouquet of flowers to any of my friends house, even if it if for a cup of coffee. It is such a nice way to greet someone. Plus, you know they will always have you back! If you really want to be a sophisticated flower giver, bring a single flower for others attending the party. You will be the talk of the party hands down!

The Language of Flowers

The art of giving, receiving, and decorating with flowers is a very old practice. Different meanings are often attributed to certain flowers, and those flowers can then be used to convey particular messages as gifts or decorations. Many of the common favorite flowers have a distinct meaning.

History

The history of using flowers to convey some type of meaning is deeply rooted in many cultures. However, discussion of an actual language of flowers began in the socially stifling 1800s. The meanings and symbolism connected to flowers were used at that time to communicate messages that were perhaps less acceptable as spoken sentiments, including messages of passion and sensuality. Generally, flowers have been used throughout history as a socially appropriate method for sending sentiments, including messages of love and desire, to the opposite sex.

Common Flower Meanings

·        Rose—The rose is one of the most beloved flowers to many people, and each one of the many colors has its own meaning. Red, the most common color, is associated with love. Orange is for passion, white is for innocence or purity, yellow is warmth and healing, pink is for friendship and kindness.

·        Carnation—Carnations are very common gift flowers. Red stands for both love and passion. White is the color of innocence, while pink is association with motherhood.

·        Lily—The lily also is available in a large variety of colors, but the most common color is white, which stands for purity. Other types of lilies express friendship, sympathy, prosperity, and a variety of other connotations.

·        Marigold—The marigold, which appears to be a very bright and cheerful bloom, is actually associated with grieving.

·        Lilac—The lilac is often used in relation to first love and remembrance.

·        Violet—Violets are used in association with virtues. They are often used to symbolize faithfulness, spiritual wisdom, and modesty.

·        Tulip—Tulips come in a variety of colors, but most messages conveyed by the use of tulips are associated somehow with love. Red in particular is intended to be a declaration of one's love.

·        Iris—Irises are common gifts for giving good news. They are associated with good tidings, comfort, and faith. The various colors often carry a variety of symbolic meanings.

·        Honeysuckle—Affection is the message conveyed by the popular and sweet honeysuckle.

·        Orchid—The graceful orchid is rightly linked to messages of beauty.

·        Aster—Aster is a flower associated with a slightly daintier and more fragile side of love.

·        Morning Glory—Morning glory is a popular flower in many gardens despite the symbolism for unrequited love.

·        Magnolia—The magnolia is closely linked to an appreciation of nature, and it is frequently used in decorations that are meant to be nature-oriented.

·        Hydrangea—Hydrangeas are very popular, so the associated meaning of heartlessness seems somewhat strange for the beautiful blooms.

·        Dandelion—The dandelion, which many gardeners view as a weed and a nuisance, symbolizes flirtation.

·        Hibiscus—The hibiscus is linked to uncommon forms of beauty.

The list above is by no means a complete list of flowers and flower meanings. For assistance with creating an appropriate arrangement to convey an appropriate message, a local florist can be of great assistance. Florists have the knowledge, tools, and flower varieties to assist with any possible order.

Heather de Kok, AAF AIFD CFD PFCI

780-988-8588

The power of giving flowers!

The Power of Giving Flowers

In the words of Anne Frank, “No one has ever become poor by giving.” In fact, many find that giving produces a multitude of rewards.  You may not be showered with monetary riches when you give the gift of flowers, but you will certainly reap a large heaping of joy and a bountiful supply of satisfaction.

The Language of Flowers

Flowers speak a language all their own. They are the perfect gift to let someone know you care and are thinking about them. When words just seem difficult to come by, a fragrant bouquet of fresh cut flowers can speak for you. Flowers have the flexibility to be given for almost any occasion. They are variable enough to be given to a co-worker, a boss, a grandmother, or a significant other. Regardless of the reason for the gift, flowers have a way of letting the recipient understand the sentiment behind them. Few gifts are as universally understood or more appreciated as flowers.

Don’t Worry, Be Happy

There is perhaps no greater character building action than the giving of oneself. Contrary to what many tend to believe, your quality of life is often determined by what you give instead of what you receive. According to findings of the World Values Survey, givers tend to be happier people. When giving is done without expecting anything in return, a personal sense of fulfillment and overall happiness is achieved.  People who give seem to develop an awareness and appreciation for the world and the people around them. They often experience a feeling of prosperity and abundance simply from the act of giving. In contrast, those who believe you have to give up something when you give to another often seem to struggle with frustration, anger, fear, or depression. Giving isn’t simply about giving something away. It’s also about receiving the reward of happiness in return. Flowers can do more than simply lift someone’s spirits. They can give your own happiness level a much needed boost as well.

The Rutgers Study

Studies show that those who receive a bouquet of flowers as a gift perceive the giver as a caring, strong, successful, and happy individual. A team from Rutgers University headed by social psychology professor Jeannette Haviland-Jones, recruited 150 women from differing ethnic backgrounds to review the profiles of 12 individuals, half of whom were men. The study recorded their evaluation of each profile, noting the assessment from each. Each profile was rated based on emotional intelligence, aesthetic appreciation, and achievement. Positive and negative emotions were also a factor. The study covered the various types of gifts given by the individuals, including such gifts as luxury items, gourmet food, jewelry, and flowers. The results determined that flowers ranked high on the appreciation level by those who receive them. It was also determined that those who give the gift of flowers are not only perceived as being happy, strong, and courageous individuals, they are also assessed to typically be more emotionally intelligent than those who give more expensive or luxurious gifts. The study determined that floral gift givers are better able to express their feelings and relate to others.

Spontaneous Giving (my favourite type of giving)

Many people most enjoy receiving flowers when they least expect it. The element of surprise makes the gift even more of a success.  When you give flowers spontaneously, you receive the satisfaction of knowing that the recipient was pleased and surprised. You are filled with a sense of fulfillment that is taken solely in the joy of making someone else happy. Sometimes a simple “just because” is all that is needed to brighten someone’s day.  There is rarely a better way to do this than with a fresh bouquet of beautifully fragrant flowers.

No Pressure!!!

I don't even know what to say..... I received a call a couple of weeks ago. It was a member of the committe from the International Floral Design Competition "The Americas Cup" being held at enflor in Holambra Brazil this July. She called to ask if I would represent Canada at this years floral design competition.  I was speechless (which is a very rare thing). Me...from Edmonton.....How am I supposed to compete in that? I am so excited to go. I am already thinking of things I could do. Not that I have many details yet but never the less, the juices are flowing. I can only hope that I represent Canada in the best way that I know how! I am sure that I will learn and grow as a designer. It is very humbling that someone thinks me to be worthy of such an opportunity. I promise to post a lot of pictures!