The Significance of an Easter Lily and other Blooms

The Significance Of Easter Lilies And Other Blooms

Early springtime sunshine often brings with it the glorious fragrance and beauty of nature blossoming upon the world. For centuries, we have associated certain types of flowers with specific meanings and values. We often use flowers as a way to express a particular sentiment of emotion. Easter Lilies and other spring flowers carry with them a significant meaning. Most often, the meaning associated with each flower is embedded in the history, legends, and characteristic qualities of the particular bloom.

Easter Lily

The magnificent white lily known as the Easter Lily has long stood as a symbol of purity, hope, innocence and peace. Also called the Bermuda lily, the Trumpet lily, and Jacob’s Tears, the Easter lily is a biblical flower commonly associated with the resurrection of Christ.

In Christian tradition, the Easter lily signifies rebirth and a new beginning. It is said that beautiful white lilies sprang up in the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus wept in the last hours before he was betrayed by Judas. Another legend claims that the white lilies grew from the repentant tears shed by Eve upon her departure from Paradise.

The lily is mentioned frequently throughout the bible and serves today as a beautiful reminder of the significance of the Easter season. Easter lilies grace homes and churches each spring as a symbol of purity, joy, hope and life.

The Crocus

This isn't found as a cut flower typically, but I had to mention it as it such a magnificent symbol of spring in Edmonton. Often the first flower to appear each spring, written documentation of the crocus dates back as far as 1500 years before Christ. Highly valued in ancient times for its medicinal and herbal properties, the crocus was widely used in a number of ancient festivals and celebrations as a symbol of love and youthful joy.

Legends circling this early spring flower include that of a young and noble shepherd boy named Crocus who fell deeply in love with a sprightly nymph by the name of Smilax. According to this legend, the Gods were so deeply touched by Crocus’ love that they granted him immortal life in the form of a flower.

Another legend tells of the Roman Physician, Valentinus, who was jailed and sentenced to death for practicing Christianity. The blind daughter of the jailer was a patient of the physician. Just before being executed on February 14, 250AD, Valentinus handed the girl a note. Knowing of the healing properties of the flower, Valentinus wrapped a bright yellow Crocus in the message. When the girl opened the note, her sight was restored and she red the words, “From your Valentine”

Daffodil

The daffodil is also commonly referred to as the narcissus. It serves as the symbolic flower for the American Cancer Society, representing hope, bravery and new beginnings. As one of the early flowers of spring, the daffodil beautifully withstands the strong winds and storms of the season. Its sturdy and strong stem holds up through the harsh winds of spring, supporting the bright and vibrant petals of the flower.

According to ancient legend, the daffodil, or narcissus, also can serve as a symbol of unrequited love, vanity and egotism. Greek Mythology tells of a love-stricken wood nymph named Echo who fell hopelessly in love with a young man by the name of Narcissus. The young man was so self-consumed with his own beauty and vanity that he carelessly tossed aside Echo’s attentions. The Gods were angered by Narcissus’ actions and placed a curse upon him causing the young man to fall in love with his own reflection in a pool of water. As he stayed beside his reflection, yearning for his unrequited love, he slowly was turned into a beautiful flower, destined to stare at his reflection forever.

Tulips

Tulips are seen as a symbol of perfect love, imagination, and wistfulness. Various colors of tulips often carry various meanings. Red tulips are often seen as representing perfect and irresistible love. Yellow tulips signify hopeless love, white tulips symbolize forgiveness, and purple tulips denote royalty and nobility.

Turkish legend tells of a young prince by the name of Farhad who fell desperately in love with the beautiful maiden, Shirin. When Farhad received word that Shirin had been killed, he was so overcome with grief that he rode his horse over the edge of a cliff. Legend claims that a red tulip grew from each droplet of blood. 

The tulip is also the flower of the 11th wedding anniversary. The velvety dark center of the flower is said to symbolize the heart of a passionate lover. In addition to its many other meanings, the tulip also represents grace and elegance.

Iris

The beautiful and elegant iris serves as a symbol of wisdom, faith, and valor. It is said that the flower received its name from the Greek goddess of the rainbow. Iris relayed messages from the eye of Heaven to the earth. She also carried the duty of leading the souls of women to the Elysian Fields when they died. Men often planted a single iris on the graves of their beloved as a symbol of their respect. 

The iris is also often used by French and English royalty as a symbol of God’s blessing upon the throne. Legend claims that an angel awarded Clovis, king of the Franks, with a golden iris upon his conversion to Christianity. The flower became a symbol of purity, light, and perfection.

Flowers in the Workplace

The Effects Of Flowers In The Workplace

During  Administrative Professionals Week Wednesday is typically the day most bosses, presidents, and CEOs send flowers to express their deep respect and gratitude to the support staff in their office.  Administrative staff in corporate offices, small businesses, and large companies keeps things running behind the scenes with little recognition throughout the year.  Demonstrate your appreciation and respect for the support staff in your office with beautifully fragrant fresh cut flowers.

A simple bouquet of fragrant blooms can lift the spirits and boost the morale of your office staff.  Studies have indicated that flowers in the workplace can significantly increase productivity and creative performance.  Build a strong professional relationship with the administrative staff in your company or corporation by taking the time to recognize all they do with a beautiful “thank you” floral arrangement.


History of Administrative Professionals WeekThe first Secretary’s Day was celebrated in 1952 when a man by the name of Harry F. Klemfuss recognized the value of the secretaries in his company.  He endeavored to honor the importance of these professionals and encourage more women to become secretaries.  Since that time, the role of support staff has greatly evolved as more men have entered the field and secretarial duties have expanded to include a myriad of work responsibilities.  The term “Administrative Professionals Week” was adopted to encompass the wide variety of support staff included in this important observation of business professionals.


Make it PersonalTake the time to show your respect by personalizing the flower arrangements you send to your administrative staff.  Is your staff cheerful, bright, and always ready with a smile?  If so, you might consider fun and fanciful floral arrangements of fresh daisies, sunflowers, or daffodils.  The quiet and reserved administrative staff will take delight in fragrant bouquets of orchids, roses, or carnations.  Flowers and plants make for one of the best desk lights available on the market today and an extra touch of personalization will go a long way in showing your administrative staff that you have taken the time to recognize their unique personalities and characteristic values.


Research Findings on Flowers in the WorkplaceA recent study conducted by researchers at the Texas A&M University indicates that flowers placed within the workplace greatly increases productivity, creative thinking, and overall job performance.  The Impact of Flowers and Plants on Workplace Productivity Study was an eight-month long research project in which both men and women were placed in various work environments.  The work atmospheres consisted of a workplace with abstract sculptures, a setting with plants and flowers, and another environment with absolutely no decorative qualities whatsoever.

The study revealed that men exposed to a work environment that included flowers and plants exhibited a 15% increase in generating powerful ideas.  Women placed within a similar setting produced greater problem solving skills and creativity.  In general, the study reveals that the presence of flowers within the work environment can greatly increase innovative thinking and productivity among workers.  This increase in work efficiency and general job performance can have a significant effect on the success of a business.


Getting Down to Business It is a significant gesture of appreciation to have beautiful floral bouquets delivered to your support staff during Administrative Professional’s Week.  Why limit the fragrant aroma and joy of fresh cut flowers to only one day out of the year though?  Beautiful flower arrangements placed within a business don’t just have a positive influence on employees; they often bear an effect on the mood of customers as well.  A friendly and relaxing environment created by the delicate sights and scents of nature can create a positive and profitable workplace environment.

Flowers in the Kitchen Trends

Home/About Flowers/Flower Designs 

Flowers For The Kitchen

There are a lot of new interior kitchen trends today. Open floor plans, creative seating areas and huge islands. The number one new trend is bringing nature into the kitchen and there is no better way to do that than with fresh cut flowers.

It doesn’t matter if you have a kitchen that is relaxing, stylish, functional, elegant or just family orientated, you can accent it with flowers to help inspire that atmosphere. There are not any rules really, but here are some guidelines to help you get on your way!

Try Classic or strong colors and containers.

• If you would like to be bold with color, choose 2 colours at a time. For example; Yellow and Orange flowers look amazing together. Another thing to remember is that with flowers, Green is a neutral and white is considered a colour. 
• If you prefer a simple look, select a variety of flowers but all in one colour. A monochromatic colour scheme is a great way to get that modern beauty into your kitchen.

Dabble in both dramatic and everyday designs.

• When you are arranging with a variety of flowers, think about scale and texture. By mixing large headed flowers, such as sunflowers, hydrangeas and peonies, with smaller blooms such as carnations or asters, you will create a lot of interest in your arrangement. Try to add some fun texture to it such as bells of Ireland, delphinium, Lisianthus or Globe Thistle. 
• Monobotanical flowers, all one variety is a great way to get a simple and elegant look. Use roses, tulips, gerbera daisies, carnations, even babies breath on its own is wonderful. If you are looking for a more dramatic look but love the monobotanical idea, place the flowers in something different! Remember, if it holds water, it will hold flowers. Try things like a jug, coffee tin or a wine carafe. 
• Another option is to mix everyday flowers like daisies or carnations with the show off flowers such as peonies and hydrangeas. If you do this though, keep the colour palette simple. That way the flowers shine!

Some other ideas for flowers in the kitchen are:

• Cut the flowers short and place flowers in an everyday kitchen item such as jelly jars, wine glasses, tea tins or what ever matches your style.
• Choose citrus coloured flowers for a sunny feeling. Place a bud vase holding a few stems of yellow and orange blossoms in a bowl filled with oranges. Or take a large vase of the citrus flowers and put lemons and limes in the vase.
• Line up 3 decorative bottles in the middle of your kitchen table or along the back of your sink and add a bold flower in each one such as a Gerbera Daisy or Cymbidium Orchid. For added drama, use a vine or grass and connect the vases. This will surely inspire a conversation when guests drop by!

It doesn’t matter what your style is, bringing flowers into your home will brighten up a room. Place the flowers on the counter top where clutter usually finds its way to congregate, this will inspire neatness and even prevent future messes from sitting there.

The kitchen is where we spend the majority of our time and the most important thing about flowers is to enjoy them everyday! Besides, it’s the most convenient room to add water!!!

Award winning designer, Heather de Kok, AAF AIFD PFCI has a passion for all things flowers. Come to 3811 – 99 street, 780-988-8588 or go to her website www.heatherdekok.com to learn more.

Flowers Of The Month

Many individuals are aware of their birth stone. However, each month also has at least one flower that has a specific meaning for individuals born during that month.
January
The carnation is one of January's flowers. The color of the carnation is said to determine the meaning of the individual flower. White carnations are associated with purity, love, and luck. Pink carnations are a symbol of femininity and motherly love. Striped or purple carnations are rarely associated with the birth flowers because purple is linked to impulsive behavior and striped carnations are linked to regret.

The snowdrop is the less common alternate January birth flower. Interestingly, a substance in the snowdrop is used in Alzheimer's treatments.

February
Enduring faith and wisdom are represented by the iris for those born in February. Irises also come in a variety of colors, but less emphasis is placed on individual meaning for each color.

Violets are popular flowers, partly due to the heart-shaped petals. These plants have many uses, including use as decorations and as food additives.

The primrose, another February flower, grows expansively across open ground and blooms earlier than many of the spring blooming plants.

March
Daffodils are an ideal birth flower due to their association with beginnings. In some cultures, the additional meaning of rebirth also adds to the daffodil's symbolism.

The alternate birth flower for March, the jonquil, is a variation of the daffodil that has been cultivated to have certain visual differences.

April
The daisy, more than many other flowers, is associated with childhood and innocence. The different colors represent various meanings, such as playfulness and cheer.

The sweet pea, April’s alternate birth flower, is a resilient climbing plant that begins to bloom during the month of April.

May
Lilies are associated with many of the aspects of a newborn child, including virtue and sweetness. The white Madonna lily has been associated with the story of the Virgin Mary.

The meaning of the hawthorn, another May birth flower, is attributed to the flower's natural uses. Animals and insects feed on various parts of the flower, which reflects sustenance. Substances derived from the plant have been used to treat illnesses related to the heart, reflecting good health and endurance.

June
The ever popular rose is one of the June birth flowers. The different colors all possess different meaning, including red for love and white for purity.

Another June flower, honeysuckle, is also associated with love.

July
Larkspur lacks the seriousness of many birth symbols. It is associated with lightness and playfulness.

The water lily, another July flower, possesses a seed that can remain viable for up to 2,000 years.

August
The beautiful gladiola symbolizes infatuation. The additional meanings of strength and integrity are also associated with this bold flower, which derives its name from the Latin word for "sword."

The poppy, a resilient flower that is also an August birth flower, stands for fertility, eternal life, and lasting beauty. These flowers are a favorite for everyday occurrences and memorials.

September
Strength of body, mind, and spirit are linked to the aster. Some cultures have also used the aster to recognize a fallen soldier's bravery.

The morning glory, which blooms in the morning and dies before the next day begins, symbolizes affection.

October
Like morning glories, marigolds also symbolize affection. Due to the flower’s association with the Virgin Mary, grace and elegance are also portrayed by the morning glory.

Cosmos is a flower linked to harmony, possibly due to the ease of growing the plant and integrating the flower into a garden.

November
November only has one flower. The flower for November is the chrysanthemum. The flower has been connected to the sun and happiness. Upon blooming, the petals unfold in an orderly fashion, leading some cultures to associate the flower with perfection.

December
A plant associated with December, as well as with winter in general, is the poinsettia. The poinsettia symbolizes cheer and joy.

Narcissus, another December birth flower, is associated with sweetness and self-esteem.

Holly, a holiday and winter flower, symbolizes happiness in the home and protection from evil spirits.

Award winning designer, Heather de Kok, AAF AIFD PFCI has a passion for all things flowers. Come to 3811 – 99 street, 780-988-8588 or go to her website www.heatherdekok.com to learn more.

What happened?!

Well...I never thought it would happen to me but it did. I've lost the passion for the flower business. So..I'm taking time off to help reconnect with myself. Find my passion for life again. Yes. I'm happily married. Yes. I'm blessed to have the best 4 kids who I adore and who adore me. My personal life is wonderful but my business life has been a frustration. People have changed, the industry has changed. I'm left wondering what is the point. I've been off for 3 weeks and have loved spending time with my kids. I am attending AIFD national symposium as I gave my word I would be on stage. Perhaps it will help rejuvenate my love for the flower business. Don't get me wrong, I still LOVE flowers. Its the business that I'm no longer enchanted with.  I'm looking forward to seeing all my friends and getting inspired by the talent there. Perhaps I will find out others have been where I am now and have moved past that feeling and love going into work. Time will tell.

Memo to Bosses - Thank your Employees!

Did you remember that Administrative Professionals week is just around the corner!? This is the time to recognize your staff for helping the company become successful through a lot of team work. One gift that says thank you so well is the gift of flowers. Research has proven that the gift of flowers for employees will lift an employees mood, create lasting memories, boost production and creativity.

I can't even make this stuff up! The research was conducted by A&M Texas University. They found so many benefits to having flowers in the work place while they were conducting the survey. Here is a link to the research which really is worth reading.

Click here to learn more

Adminstrative week is April 23-27 with the official day being on April 25, 2012

I for one believe in saying thank you to your staff. I do it through out the year as I honestly do appreciate everyone of my staff. They won't know how much you appreciate them if you don't tell them. And so, I will take this opportunity to say thank you to Roselle, Sany, Denise and Brena for making my store the place to buy your flowers! Couldn't do it with out you!

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.

.

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.