Sunday, June 24, 2007

Blue Iris Bouquet

Blue Iris Bouquet
These gorgeous blue flowers, also known as fleur-de-lis, have long been associated with Hera, the Greek moon goddess. They are also widely regarded as a symbol of purity.

Iris Bouquet

Iris Bouquet
This bouquet of premium iris is a favorite for any occasion.

20 Fresh Iris

20 Fresh Iris
20 beautiful fresh cut iris are sure to delight!

Purple Persuasion

Purple Persuasion
This tonal bouquet of purple mums is a favorite for any occasion.

Summer Sunshine Bouquet

Summer Sunshine Bouquet
Direct From Our Farms, Flowers are handpicked from "Our Platinum Line", guaranteeing the Highest Quality of Flowers Grown ready for you to arrange in your vase.

150 Fresh-cut Mixed Purple Carnations

150 Fresh-cut Mixed Purple Carnations
This stunning 150-stem shipment combines Lavender Moonaqua Carnations, Purple Moonlite Carnations, Purple Moonshade Carnations and Purple Moonvista Carnations, fresh-cut and overnighted for your purple-themed event.

Multi Colored Carnations Fresh Flower Bouquet

Multi Colored Carnations Fresh Flower Bouquet
These multi-colored carnations are sure to please with their fragrant scent. Blooms are very long lasting.

Glorious White Carnation Bouquet

Glorious White Carnation Bouquet
This bouquet of white carnations and Irish Bells is a favorite for any occasion.

Glorious Pink Carnation Bouquet

Glorious Pink Carnation Bouquet
This bouquet of pink carnations is a favorite for any occasion.

Pink Carnations Fresh Flower Bouquet

Pink Carnations Fresh Flower Bouquet
Beautiful flowers direct from the grower for maximum freshness at a great price!

Tickled Pink Gerbera Daisy Bouquet

Tickled Pink Gerbera Daisy Bouquet
Beautiful flowers direct from the grower for maximum freshness at a great price!

Muli Colored Gerbera Daisy Bouquet

Muli Colored Gerbera Daisy Bouquet
Beautiful flowers direct from the grower for maximum freshness at a great price!

Splash of Daisies Fresh Flower Bouquet

Splash of Daisies Fresh Flower Bouquet
Beautiful flowers direct from the grower for maximum freshness at a great price!

Yellow Daisies

Yellow Daisies
Beautiful flowers direct from the grower for maximum freshness at a great price!

Delightful Daisies Fresh Cut Gerbera Daisies - Mother's Day Fresh Flowers

Delightful Daisies Fresh Cut Gerbera Daisies - Mother's Day Fresh Flowers
Beautiful flowers direct from the grower for maximum freshness at a great price!

Yellow Gerbera Daisy Bouquet - Mother's Day Fresh Flowers

Yellow Gerbera Daisy Bouquet - Mother's Day Fresh Flowers
Beautiful flowers direct from the grower for maximum freshness at a great price!

Daisy Rainbow Fresh Flower Bouquet

Daisy Rainbow Fresh Flower Bouquet
Beautiful flowers direct from the grower for maximum freshness at a great price!

Wonderous Red Gerbera Daisy Bouquet - Mother's Day Fresh Flowers

Wonderous Red Gerbera Daisy Bouquet - Mother's Day Fresh Flowers
Beautiful flowers direct from the grower for maximum freshness at a great price!

Saturday, June 16, 2007

Splash of Sunshine Fresh Flower Bouquet

Splash of Sunshine Fresh Flower Bouquet
This wonderful blend of Asiatic lilies, hypericum and solidago will add a splash of sunshine to anyone's day! Your fresh cut flower bouquet will be picked fresh and delivered directly from the grower to your recipients door so that they will last much longer. So fresh that you might still detect a hint of the mornings dew. The fresh cut flower bouquet will be received within 12-24 hours after theyve been cut, compared to 10-14 days when you buy from a florist.

French Countryside(Tm) - Medium

French Countryside(Tm) - Medium
Bring beauty and warmth to their day with this golden bouquet. Our designers select sunny flowers and arrange them in a charming vase in a color that will coordinate beautifully with your floral selection. Its a beautiful way to express your warmest wishes! Only the freshest and highest quality flowers are selected, so colors and varieties may vary.

One Dozen Gerbera Daisie Arranged In A Vase

One Dozen Gerbera Daisie Arranged In A Vase
Gerbera daisies are among the top most requested flowers. They originated in Africa, Madagascar and Indonesia and grow in a brilliant variety of colors. They need little adornment to make a stylish presentation.

Two Dozen Long Stemmed Premium Red Roses

Two Dozen Long Stemmed Premium Red Roses
Why send one dozen roses when you can really impress with TWO DOZEN? Twenty four beautiful, long-stemmed, South American Red Roses will spoil your deserving recipient. Definitely a showstopper, our bouquet also has an extraordinary talent for kindling romance.

Colorful Gerbera Daisies

Colorful Gerbera Daisies
Includes 15 stems of assorted Gerbera daisies and yellow solidaster and salal. Measures approximately 18" tall. Flowers are hand-picked and tied, then shipped fresh from the fields along with your personal message.

Plum Crazy(Tm) - Medium

Plum Crazy(Tm) - Medium
For those passionate about purple--a color associated with royalty, creativity, and mystery--send our all-purple arrangement of flowers such as daisy poms, mini carnations, monte casino and more.

Potted Pink Roses

Potted Pink Roses
Includes approximately 10-12" high miniature pink rose bush within a 6" diameter wicker basket, and care information.

1-800-Flowers Fields Of Europe (Tm) - Medium

Sexy Lingerie
Your special someone will just love these striking blooms with a continental touch! Our florists have recreated the clean simple style that echoes the bouquets found in markets across Europe.

Thursday, June 14, 2007

Iris and Pink Tulip Bouquet - Mother's Day Fresh Flowers

Iris and Pink Tulip Bouquet - Mother's Day Fresh Flowers
This bouquet of premium iris and tulips is a favorite for any occasion. Your flowers will be picked fresh and delivered directly from the grower to your recipients door so that they will last much longer.

10 Blue Iris

10 Blue Iris
Contains 10 stems of blue iris. Shipped in our specially designed box with your personal message. Vases available during check out. Shown in upgraded vase.

Sunflower Radiance

Sunflower Radiance
Sunflower Radiance includes 7 bright yellow sunflowers and greenery. Measures approximately 14" tall. Flowers are hand-picked, tied, and shipped fresh from the fields along with your personal message. Vases available during check out.

Nature's Best Bouquet

Nature's Best Bouquet
Direct From Our Farms, Flowers are handpicked from "Our Platinum Line", guaranteeing the Highest Quality of Flowers Grown; a hand tied designed bouquet ready to drop into your vase. Includes: Gerbera Daisy, Meteor or Florette Asters, Mini Carnations Roses, Matsumoto and Hannah Asters, Micro Pompoms, accented with Bear Grass, Eucalyptus and greens. Flowers arrive in our specially designed box to protect the quality and freshness during shipping with you personal message.

Mix Flower Bouquet

Mix Flower Bouquet
1 Free Designer Vase with the Purcahse of any one of the following, 1 doz. Rainbow Roses SKU 2041, or 1 doz. Red Roses SKU 1817, or 1 doz. White Roses SKU 2038 or 1 doz. Pink Roses SKU 2039

1 Doz. Rainbow Roses Bouquet 2041

1 Doz. Rainbow Roses Bouquet 2041
1 Free Designer Vase with the Purcahse of any one of the following, 1 doz.

Thursday, June 7, 2007

When Butterfly turned into Flower


In my secret garden
I see flower turn into butterfly and butterfly turn into flower...

When Butterfly turned into Flower, originally uploaded by Araleya.

3 Ways to Cut Cost on Wedding Flowers

With all the things you’ll have to worry about paying for when it comes to your wedding, you won’t want to have to spend a lot of cash for slightly smaller things, like accents, decorations, and flower arrangements. Since most brides do want to have flowers at their weddings, and would prefer to purchase them at a reasonable price, here are some ways to save on wedding flowers that you may want to try:

Buy synthetic flowers.

Synthetic flowers may cost a little more when you buy them in bulk because of the material, but they could save you money because they last as long as you need them to. Many people have fresh flower bouquets for the bride, bridesmaids, and flower girls, and these tend to whither rather quickly, especially if the ceremony is indoors. So, you may end up buying more flowers than you actually need in order to keep the flowers looking good for pictures after the ceremony. You can also find colors or types of flowers that may not be in bloom at the time you are having the wedding if you buy synthetic flowers. This way, you’ll have more freedom to create the look you want for your ceremony. If you want to decorate the reception with flowers as well, synthetic flowers may be a good idea, so that you can maintain the look of the room for as long as you need to. And, since most brides want to keep their bouquets, buying synthetic flowers is definitely a good idea.

Plan your bouquet size.

Many brides end up spending more than they wanted to on a bouquet because they didn’t count the amount of flowers that would be in the arrangement, or select flowers that will look good with not-so-expensive accents. Make sure you know just how big you want your bouquet to be, as well as what type of flowers you want to include. And, carrying a single flower down the aisle is wonderful look for a bride as well. You can use a lily, daisy, or even a rose with lace or pearl accents as your bouquet, and add a unique touch to the ceremony. Small bunches of flowers can also be beautiful, proving that, as with most other things, less can definitely be more. If you want to get fresh flowers for your bouquet, selecting flowers that are in season will also help you to save money, since a florist may have to specially order out-of-season flowers, which can increase the bouquet price significantly.

Plan ahead.

Even though flowers for the wedding may seem like a small thing, don’t wait until the last minute to make sure that you have the flowers you want for your wedding. You may have to spend more money to find flowers you want the closer you get to the ceremony, so make sure that you have decided whether or not you’ll purchase flowers from a local florist or order synthetic flowers.

Order Wholesale From The Internet

To find more ideas for how to save on wedding flowers, as well as wedding floral shops that may have what you’re looking for, visit sites like freshroses.com and fiftyflowers.com.

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About The Author

Michelle Ferrell is the author of "How To Plan Your Dream Wedding On A Limited Budget" - Discover other creative ways you can save thousands on your wedding at http://www.bridebargains.com.

Flowers for Men

Flowers were probably one of the last gifts you would think of sending a gentleman. The truth is, most men appreciate flowers as much as women do. It would be a wonderful surprise for him to receive an unexpected bouquet or arrangement! In this article, we have included lots of ideas to surprise your man with!

1) Stay Bright
Men tend to prefer vibrant colors. An electrifying array of flowers in a bouquet or arrangement can really brighten up your man's mood. We recommend that you chose colors like red, yellow, orange and blue. You can ask your florist for more advice on creating beautiful and colorful flower bouquets and arrangement any man will enjoy for any special occasion.

2) Add Green
If the man you are sending flowers to enjoys gardening or has a "green thumb", combining green plants with your flower arrangements is a great addition. The added touch of green can cool off your vibrant flower colors. If you are unsure about adding green accents, ask your florist. We suggest ruscus as a green plant that will compliment your flowers.

3) Be Unique
When sending flowers to men, you must be different with your choices because women are different then men when it comes to personal choices in flowers. Consider a unique or personally designed flower vase. Another tip is to include tropical flowers in your arrangement or bouquet. These suggestions will definitely get that special man's attention.

Sending flowers to men has been despised for years. Men do enjoy flowers as much as women. Sending flowers as a bright and unique gift to a man is an excellent way to express your feelings. Even sending roses to men is an acceptable way to say I love you. Thinking outside the box will definitely impress him. Your florist can also provide other gifts such as balloons, gift baskets, and plants. All of these gifts can be delivered online to your man's home or office. Ask your florist online for more information and ideas for delivering and sending flowers to men.

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About The Author

By: Janna Hagan [Via]

Purple flowers


A bed of purple flowers

Purple flowers, originally uploaded by Pompouspete.

The Language of Flowers

Flowers are a gift of beauty. Although they are beautiful, flowers have many different meanings. Sending flowers with special meanings can be appropriate for almost any occasion - birthdays, funerals, weddings, anniversaries, new baby, get well, graduation, new home or just because. Whatever the event, you want flowers that have a deeper meaning. We have listed some of the most popular flowers for every occasion and their specific meaning. With this information, you can be prepared to send flowers for every special occasion online - and send them with a purpose.


A

Acacia : Friendship; Concealed Love (Friendship)

Aconite : Beware a deadly foe is near

Ambrosia : Your love is reciprocated

Amaryllis : Pride; Splendid Beauty; Timidity

Anemone : Forsaken; Expectations

Aster : Symbol of Love; Daintiness; Afterthought (Valentine's Day)

Azalea : Fragile and Ephemeral Prison

B

Baby's Breath : Pure of heat; Innocent (Christmas)

Bachelor's Button : Hope in love; Delicacy; Single blessedness

Begonia : Beware

Bells of Ireland : Good Luck (New Home, New Baby, Graduation, etc.)

Bluebell : Everlasting Love (Valentine's Day)

Buttercup : Childlessness


C

Cactus : Endurance

Caladium : Great joy and delight (Happy Birthday, New Baby, Wedding)

Camellia : Gratitude; Perfection

Camellia (Blue) : You're a flame in my heart

Camellia (Pink) : Longing for you

Camellia (White) : You're adorable; Perfected loveliness (Valentine's Day)

Camellia (Red) : Me heart aches for you; Admiration (In Hospital, Funeral)

Carnation : Womanly Love; Devoted Love (New Baby, Mother's Day)

Carnation (Red) : Admiration

Carnation (Pink) : I'll never forget you (Funeral)

Carnation (Purple) : Capriciousness

Carnation (Striped) : Sorry I can't be with you (In Hospital, Moving Away)

Carnation (White) : Innocence; Pure Love; Woman's Good Luck (Funeral, Wedding, New Baby)

Carnation (Yellow) : Rejection; Disappointed

Chrysanthemum : Cheerfulness; Wealth (Friendship)

Chrysanthemum (Red) : I love you

Chrysanthemum (Yellow) : Slighted Love

Chrysanthemum (White) : Truth

Crocus : Youthful gladness; Cheerfulness (Friendship)

Cyclamen : Resignation; Goodbye (Funeral, Moving Away)


D

Daffodil : You're the only one; Unrequited love

Dahlia : Dignity; Elegance; Good Taste (Friendship)

Daisy : Innocence; Loyal Love; I'll never tell

Delphinium : Flight of fancy; Ardent attachment


F

Fern : Secret bond; Magic; Fascination (Christmas, Birthday)

Fleur-De-Lis : Flame; Burning

Forget-Me-Not: Memories; Do not forget (Funeral)

Forsythia : Good nature; Anticipation

Freesia : Innocence, Trust (Friendship)


G

Galax : Encouragement (Birthday, Congratulations)

Gardenia : Sweet Love; Refinement; Purity (Baptismal Anniversary)

Geranium : Stupidity (I'm Sorry)

Gladiolus : Generosity; Sincerity

Gloxinia : Love at first sight

Grass : Submission


H

Heather (Lavender) : Solitude

Heather (White) : Protection; Wishes will come true (Funeral, Wedding, Birthday)

Hibiscus : Delicate Beauty

Holly : Foresight; Defense

Hyacinth : Games; Sports; Rashness

Hyacinth (Blue) : Constancy

Hyacinth (Purple) : Please forgive me (I'm Sorry)

Hyacinth (Red/Pink) : Play (Birthday)

Hyacinth (White) : I'll pray for you (Funeral, In Hospital)

Hyacinth (Yellow) : Jealousy

Hydrangea Thank you; Heartlessness


I

Iris : Faith; Wisdom; Promise (Christmas, Friendship)

Ivy : Affection; Wedded love


J

Jonquil : Sympathy, Desire, Love me (Funeral, Romance)


L

Lilac (Purple) : First emotion of love

Lilac (White) : Youthful innocence; Majesty

Lily (Calla) : Beauty

Lily (Day) : Coquetry

Lily (Eucharis) : Maiden charms

Lily (Tiger) : Wealth; Pride; Prosperity

Lily of the Valley : Sweetness, Return of happiness (Wedding)


M

Magnolia : Love of nature; Dignity

Marigold : Grief; Credulity; Jealousy; Despair

Mimosa, Bloom : Sensitivity

Monkshood : Beware; Chivalry

Moss : Charity

Myrtle : Duty; Affection; Home (Mother's & Father's Day)


N

Narcissus : Stay as you are; Formality

Nasturtium : Patriotism; Conquest; Victory (Patriotic)


O

Oleander : Caution; Beauty; Grace

Orange Blossom : Purity; Marriage (Wedding, Romance)

Orchid : Refinement, Beautiful lady (Mother's day)


P

Palm Leaves : Victory; Success

Pansy : Thoughtful reflection (Funeral, Friendship)

Peony : Bashfulness; Happy marriage (Wedding, Birthday)

Petunia : Anger; Your presence soothes me

Phlox : Our souls are united

Pine: Pity

Poinsettia : Be of good cheer (Christmas)

Poppy: Eternal sleep; Imagination

Poppy (Red) : Remembrance

Poppy (White) : Consolation

Poppy (Yellow) : Wealth; Success (Friendship)

Primrose (Evening) : Inconstancy


Q

Queen Anne's Lace : Haven


R

Rose (Red) : Love; I love you (Valentine's day)

Rose (Pink) : Grace

Rose (Deep Pink) : Thank you

Rose (Light Pink) : Admiration

Rose (Yellow) : Friendship

Rose (White) : Innocence; Purity; Charm

Rose (Peach/Coral) : Desire

Rose (Orange) : Enthusiasm

Rose (Red & White) : Unity

Rose (Single Red) : I love you (Valentine's Day)

Rose (Long Stemmed) : I will remember you (Funeral)

Rose (Shirt Stemmed) : Girlhood (Birthday, Mother's Day)

Roses (Assorted) : You're everything to me

Roses (Mature Blooms) : Gratitude (Thank you)

Rosebud : Youth; A young heart of innocence

Rosebud (Red) : Pure; Lovely

Rosebud (White) : Girlhood


S

Snapdragon : Gracious Lady; Presumption

Spider Flowers : Elope with me

Statice : Sympathy, remember (Funeral)

Stephanotis : Happiness in marriage; Come to me (Wedding)

Stock : You are always beautiful

Sunflowers : Adoration; Sunshine (Friendship, Birthday)

Sweet Pea : Thank you for a lovely time

Sweet William : Smile; Gallantry


T

Tulip : Perfect Lover; Fame; Passion (Valentine's Day)

Tulip (Red) : Believe in me; Declaration of love

Tulip (Yellow) : Sunshine in your smile; Hopeless love

Tulip (Variegated) : Beautiful Eyes


V

Verbena : Will you get your wish?

Veronica : Fidelity

Violet : Modesty; Virtue

Violet (Blue) : I'll always be true; Watchfulness (Friendship)

Violet (White) : Let's take a change on happiness (Wedding)

Viscaria : Will you dance with me?


W

Wallflower : Fidelity in adversity

Water Lily : Purity of the heart (Valentine's Day, Friendship, Funeral)

Wisteria : Welcome (New Baby, New Home)


X

Xeranthemum : Eternity; Immortality


Y

Yarrow : Healing (In Hospital, Funeral)


Z

Zinnia : Thoughts of absent friends (Thinking of you)

Zinnia (Magenta) : Lasting affection (Funeral, Wedding)

Zinnia (Scarlet) : Constancy

Zinnia (White) : Goodness

Zinnia (Yellow) : Daily remembrance (Funeral, Thinking of you)

Zinnia (Mixed) : Thinking of you; Absent friend (Funeral)


By: Janna Hagan [Via]

Magnolia Flower


The Magnolia Flower is awesome.

Magnolia Flower, originally uploaded by Evelyn J,.

Flower Confidential: The Good, the Bad, and the Beautiful in the Business of Flowers

The cut flowers that people purchase every day as tokens of affection and gratitude have more often than not traveled a long road to reach the consumer. Not only have they been shipped over hundreds of miles, but some have also been genetically engineered to bloom out of season or to display colors more vivid than those found in nature. Stewart reveals the workings of the floral industry and the intensive efforts being put into breeding, growing, and selling flowers that look beautiful in a vase and remain so for long periods. Stewart, an author and a journalist, recounts how the flower trade evolved from a cottage industry involving only growers and their local customers to a big business importing flowers from South America and Africa for U.S. consumers. The author explains the science behind blooming and how breeders have made winter bloomers out of flowers that normally bloom in summer. In an epilogue, she takes a look at the floral frenzy of valentine's Day, the industry's busiest day of the year. Algonquin Books, 2007, 306 p., hardcover, $23.95. [Via]

Guerrilla Flower Project


"Guerrilla Flower Project", an experiment about Guerrilla Marketing, Treasure Hunting & Flowers. On the night of the 21 may 2007, 130 paper crafts flowers were hidden in Villa Guardia, a little Italian town.

Guerrilla Flower Project, originally uploaded by komart.

Wedding Flower Checklist

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and you want everything to be perfect. Whether you're planning all the details for your own wedding or enlisting the assistance of a bridal consultant, planning can be time consuming and stressful if you're not organized and supplied with the proper tools.

Just as you might make to-do lists to ensure you accomplish all of your daily goals, want to use wedding checklists to ensure that you have budgeted for and planned everything you require for your wedding. One very important checklist is your wedding flower checklist.

A wedding flower checklist ensures that you don’t forget to order all the flowers you want and need. Imagine how upset you would be if, on the day of your wedding, you suddenly realize you forgot to order a boutonniere for your father, the candle arrangement planned for your unity candle ceremony, or the toss bouquet you've always dreamed of playfully tossing to your single girlfriends. Worse yet, imagine how brokenhearted your grandmother would be if you forgot to honor her with a corsage especially if you remembered a corsage for everyone else except her!

While the above example sounds extreme, weddings are both an exciting and stressful time so anything can happen. Most florists will guide you through an organized ordering process to reduce the chance of omitting important details. However, if you are working with a very busy florist, particularly one who schedules and books multiple weddings on the same day, it's a good idea to have your own separate wedding flower checklist. If you have a checklist to take to your floral consultation, it will make the ordering process faster. Also, you can use the checklist when confirming your order with the florist the day before your wedding.

The following is a comprehensive checklist to use when budgeting, planning, and ordering your wedding flowers. As each wedding is unique and varies by individual preference and faith, you may not have a need for all categories or all selections within a category.

Bride Bouquet or Equivalent Headpiece or Flowers for Hair Presentation for Mothers Presentation for Honoring Special Guests Presentation for Honoring Deceased Family Members Presentation to the Virgin Mary Throw Bouquet Going Away Flowers

Maid/Matron of Honor Bouquet or Equivalent Headpiece or Flowers for Hair

Bridesmaids Bouquet or Equivalent Headpiece or Flowers for Hair

Junior Bridesmaids Bouquet or Equivalent Headpiece or Flowers for Hair

Flower Girl Bouquet, Basket with Petals, or Equivalent Headpiece or Flowers for Hair

Bride's Mother Corsage or Equivalent

Groom's Mother Corsage or Equivalent

Grandmothers Corsage or Equivalent

Stepmothers Corsage or Equivalent

Groom Boutonniere

Best Man Boutonniere

Groomsmen Boutonniere

Ushers Boutonniere

Ring Bearer Boutonniere Ring Pillow, Ring Box, or Equivalent

Fathers Boutonniere

Grandfathers Boutonniere

Stepfathers Boutonniere

Minister, Honored Relatives, Honored Friends, Reader(s), Hosts and Hostesses, Cake Server(s), Punch Server(s), Guestbook Attendant, Candle Lighter, Gift Attendant(s), Soloist(s), Organist/Pianist, Other Musician(s), Rice Bag Attendant(s), Favors Attendant(s), and Service Personnel Female: Corsage, Equivalent, or Single Stem Presentation Flower Male: Boutonniere

Ceremony Decorations Main Altar Side Arrangements Candelabra Unity Candle Flowers Kneeling Bench Arch Huppah CanopyTent Decorations Pew Decorations or Chairs Aisle Candelabras (Candlelight Ceremony) Guestbook Table Plant or Tree Rentals Aisle Runner Door Wreath Floral Garland (for Staircases, Doorways, Narrow Ledges, Etc.)

Reception Decorations Bridal Table/Head Table Arrangements Guest Table Centerpieces Table and Chair Accent Flowers and Garlands Flower Favors/Place Setting Flowers Cake Top and Cake Flowers Cake Table Arrangement Buffet Table Arrangements Bar and Beverage Table Arrangements Gift Table Arrangement Topiaries Plant or Tree Rentals Car or Carriage

If you're planning a rehearsal dinner prior to your wedding, you may wish to include flowers. Appropriate rehearsal dinner flowers include centerpieces for the dining tables, a corsage for the bride-to-be, a boutonniere for the groom-to-be, and floral favors for place settings.

Wedding flower checklist provided by Something Spectacular Custom Floral Design http://www.SomethingSpectacular.com The Premier Silk Floral Designer - Copyright 2002-2003

Blossom - My first flowers


These were on a magical tree where we sat and had our lunch at blackgang chine.

Blossom - My first flowers, originally uploaded by s0ulsurfing.

FLOWER


Attleboro nursery flowers

FLOWER 013, originally uploaded by tomcollinsarc.

Artificial vs. Real Flowers

Many brides today are struggling over the great floral dilemma: Should she choose fresh or artificial flowers. The deciding factors in this dilemma usually boil down to cost, appearance, durability, and convenience.

Most brides will notice a considerable cost savings when choosing silk. It is not unusual for a fresh bridal bouquet to cost more than an entire wedding party’s silk flowers. Keep in mind, some stems can still be very expensive, even in silk. Those that tend to be expensive are large, high-quality roses, calla lilies, and orchids. As a less expensive alternative to roses, try cabbage roses or ranunculus.

Many brides worry that the artificial flowers will look fake. This, again, depends on the choice of flowers. Some flowers, such as calla lilies, are very difficult to replicate with a natural look. Even so, most fresh callas will run about $5.00 per stem, compared to $3.00 per stem for artificial callas. Other silk flowers, such as roses, can appear every bit as realistic as fresh flowers. A good, realistic, silk rose should run from $1.50-$6.00 per stem.

Should you choose silk flowers and wish to have a hand-tied bouquet, be sure to request a stem holder when talking to your florist. These holders allow the handle to appear to be a large bunch of stems, instead of a thin, wire handle.

A wonderful alternative to silk flowers are latex stems. These flowers are moldable and will mimic the natural texture of the flower much better than silk. Latex flowers also hold their shape very well and can be arranged more precisely. Although these stems may cost slightly more than silk, they are well worth the added expense.

Other brides will choose fresh flowers because they want their flowers to smell good. The important question to ask yourself would be, “Is the smell worth the price escalation?”

As stated before, durability is something you will need to consider when choosing your flowers. Artificial flowers will not wilt, they will not discolor, and broken stems do not usually occur. And, when the wedding is over, you will have a wonderful keepsake without the additional preservation expenses.

Perhaps one of the best things about silk flowers is the convenience they afford. They can be ordered long before the wedding and stored until the big day. This also leaves time for corrections, should your florist make a mistake.

For the bride who can let go of the pretty smell of fresh flowers and the touch of a rose petal, silk flowers are a very affordable and convenient alternative to fresh flowers.

Article by Jennifer Goldsberry, http://SilkWed.com

Steps To Wedding Flowers

If you are in the process of planning a wedding, you know that there is much more involved in tying the knot than just… well, tying a knot. It takes a considerable amount of time and effort to prepare for the day that you have dreamt about for so long. Flowers are an important aspect. The right wedding flowers will compliment you, as well as, make your ceremony and reception more beautiful. Fortunately, choosing the right wedding flowers doesn't have to be difficult. Your florist can help, and here are some tips from wedding professionals to make the job even easier:

Contact A Wedding Florist
Once you've set the date, it's a good idea to contact a florist to inquire about availability. If you're not sure which florist to call, ask friends and relatives if they have recommendations or ask in a wedding planning forum. The best wedding florists decorate lots of weddings. So, it's usually easy to find people who have seen their work. When you call, confirm that they can serve the locations for your wedding and reception. You may also want to ask about other weddings they've done, whether they can provide any pictures of their work or referrals from local customers, and when you could meet. Most florists are happy to schedule free consultations to help you.

Take One Step At A Time
The next step is usually selecting the gowns for the bridal party, because the flowers should compliment their color and style. Get some pictures or fabric swatches to show to your florist. It's also helpful, before meeting with your florist, to go through a few bridal magazines and clip any photos of flowers and bouquets you particularly like. These simple tools will help you communicate with your florist, so he or she knows where to start in helping you select something you'll love. Don't worry if you don't know the names of particular flowers. You don't have to be an expert. Your florist will guide you through the process.

Meet with Your Florist
If possible, you should have the dresses picked out and meet with your florist about four to six months prior to the big day. Earlier is better. Remember, you don't want other bridal parties to beat you to your florist of choice for a particular date. Bring your photos or fabric swatches with you. If you'd like additional input, bring your mother, bridesmaid, or friend along. The key elements for your wedding flowers will be the bridal bouquet, selections for the bridal party and parents, decorations for the ceremony, and centerpieces for the reception. Your florist will be happy to select specific flowers, colors, and design styles with you. Many will also offer to create a sample or two for approval before delivery.

Consider a Few Extra Touches
For the most memorable day of your life, you may also want to consider accent pieces for doorways, pews, the cake, the alter, and even your car. Think about how others can remember the day, as well. Small bags of candy will be eaten and forgotten, but many will cherish the novelty of individual flowers placed at every setting. It will make your guests feel as if you are thinking of each and every one of them. You might also consider allowing the guests to take the centerpieces home, as a token of thanks for their friendship, and to help them understand how special this day is to you now, and how unforgettable it will always be.

Discuss Your Budget
Wedding flowers can be anywhere from a few hundred dollars for an intimate nuptial to tens of thousands of dollars for an impressive ceremony and reception, with the average normally in the $2,000 to $3,000 range. A lot depends on the location, number of guests, and how you want your wedding to be remembered. Be upfront with your florist about your wishes and your approximate budget. Get their best recommendations, but don't be afraid to ask how you might economize, too. Your florist may be able to suggest ways to use some pieces at both the ceremony and reception. Some will provide the transportation for this, as well. Many florists can also provide plants, votive candles, candelabra, linens, and other decorations on a rental basis to help you save money.

Use Your Imagination
No matter what you see in magazines or at other ceremonies, remember that almost anything is possible when it comes to wedding flowers. For example, compact nosegay style bouquets are popular, but so are clusters of calla lilies or other single flower types, and traditional cascade style bouquets are back in vogue, too. When it comes to color, pale pinks, peaches, and whites are always popular, but many brides today are opting for reds or more fashion-forward colors such as oranges and greens. Almost anything goes. The important thing is to work with your florist. He or she knows what's hot and what's not and can create almost anything your heart desires. So, whether your wedding will be simple or elegant, traditional or high-style, your wedding flowers will be perfect for the occasion.

*** Courtesy of Phillip's Flowers, a third-generation, family-owned florist specializing in custom wedding flowers and event decorations throughout Chicago and suburbs. [Via]

Wednesday, June 6, 2007

Dente Venus Fly Trap Plant - Dionaea - Carnivorous

Nature provides this remarkable plant with "traps" to lure and capture it's food. The traps are covered inside by tiny hairs and a sticky sweet smelling substance attractive to insects. When an insect touches the trigger hair, the trap is activated and closes around it's victim. After digestion of it's meal (whick takes several days), the trap will open again for a new catch. PLANTING AND CARE: Keep moist at all times, rainwater or distilled water are preferred. Plants should not be fertilized (so therefore should be separated from your other plants). The insects it catches provide natural nourishment. Select a sunny window for your Venus Flytrap. In replanting only use sphagnum! Peat moss will do in a pinch. Put a plastic saucer underneath the plant to hold water and keep it's humidity proper but do not stand in a dish of water.

26,000 Black Eyed Susan Flower Seeds


BLACK EYED SUSAN IS A VERY HARDY PERENNIAL WITH YELLOW PETALS AND A BLACK DOMED CENTER. NOTHING STOPS IT. GROWS BEST IN FULL SUN. Seeds are packaged and germination tested for current year.

Italian Herb Trio - Basil, Oregano and Chives in Glazed Ceramic Pots - A Great Gift Idea!


You won't believe the difference in flavor between using dried seasonings and using the herbs you'll grow with our classic Italian Herb Garden Trio. You can't get fresher ingredients! The kit is both a decorative and culinary delight, featuring the traditionally used herbs basil, oregano and chives. This complete kit includes premium seeds, soil, three glazed, olive green mini pots and a matching drip tray. Beautifully packaged, the miniature herb garden makes a wonderful gift for the gourmand in your life, or will brighten your own kitchen or windowsill with an air of rustic sophistication.

Iris and Pink Tulip Bouquet - Mother's Day Fresh Flowers


This bouquet of premium iris and tulips is a favorite for any occasion. Your flowers will be picked fresh and delivered directly from the grower to your recipients door so that they will last much longer. So fresh that you might still detect a hint of the mornings dew. Your roses will be received within 24-36 hours after theyve been cut, compared to 10-14 days when you buy from a florist. In fact, these roses are so fresh, that we guarantee that they will remain fresh for a minimum of 7 days!

Tuesday, June 5, 2007

Close Up


Not sure what this flower is ... it's an indoor flower and only lasts for 2-3 days.

Close Up, originally uploaded by Boneo.

Inverewe Garden


Of course this wealth of flowers attracts insects, too!!

Inverewe Garden, originally uploaded by friedkampes.

green and blue


Patches of this wonderful flower appeared in the side of a main road not far from my house. They may not really be native here, but they apparently feel great and they'll probably be here to stay! Isn't integration wonderful?

green and blue, originally uploaded by friedkampes.

Clivia ... again / alweer


In the hall Clivia has developed a new stalk , and the flowers have started to open now.

Clivia ... again / alweer, originally uploaded by friedkampes.

hydrangea


have a nice Sunday.

hydrangea, originally uploaded by Joseph Dath.

Red powder puff


Red Powder Puff, Rose cascade, Blood Red Tassel Flower

Red powder puff, originally uploaded by dinesh_valke.

Birthday Flowers


Birthday Flowers

Birthday Flowers, originally uploaded by princessbren2006.

Jiyu Gakuen Myonichikan Flowers


Jiyu Gakuen Myonichikan Flowers

Jiyu Gakuen Myonichikan Flowers #3, originally uploaded by lepagejp.