Exotic Flowers in Boston

It’s true, right?  Red roses are the number one flower given to women as a romantic gesture and have long held the symbolic meaning attached to love and passion.  For centuries, this variety has been “Queen Bee” in her realm against other species, trumping over white lilies, orchids and even daisies.  I bet more than once in your lifetime, you’ve received a dozen or more of roses, perhaps from a partner or better yet, an admirer?  Yes, long stem red roses continue to hold a strong demand in the floral business, becoming the number #1 imported product for holidays such as Valentine’s Day.  It’s impressive how these beauties have maintained their popularity over the years, even when new competitors appear in the market.  For some reason, they just never seem to hold a candle to this oldie but goodie… If you’re curious as to why this might be, the answer lies within the properties of the bloom-specifically its ability to affect several of the human body’s senses.  Pretty cool, don’t you think!

When it comes to your sniffer- the nose always knows… The scent of the red rose is one of the most powerful floral aromas, which enhances both mood and sex drive.  In some cultures, red roses are strewn around a honeymooner’s bed with tiny petals spread about in order to encourage a “healthy physical relationship” between the partners as well as an emotional one.  Typically, you’ll find that most varieties have a perfumed, sultry smell that is different from others which can have a sweeter scent that is another sign of erotica.

To touch a rose is like grazing your fingertips against a silky material and is often also compared to a velvet fabric.  The petals can be used multi-purposely by adding them into baths to create a luxurious bathing experience.  Once the blossoms release the oils contained within the petals, you’ll find the water is enhanced to contain these essential elements that in turn will soften the skin.

Red is the color of passion and roses represent this perfectly due to their rich shades that epitomize love, hearts and blood.  Red is another strong attribute when speaking of the senses because most people react to this shade faster over any other including blue, yellow and orange.   

It’s summertime and parents all over New England are looking for fun activities to distract and entertain the kiddies for the next several months.  Hopefully encouraging them to play outside, there are so many wonderful things to do to pass the time, many of which you can find hidden in your own backyard.  If you have a child who particularly loves gardening, here’s an idea that might be perfect for you!  Do you have a bed of flowers and a few old masons jars lying around that need to be repurposed?  If you do, here is an excellent craft to teach your children while also bringing the beauty of summertime into your homes.

photo credit via aboutflowers.com

Kid-Friendly Directions for Making Arrangements

Materials:

Cutting Shears Masons Jars

Water Flowers

Green Thumb

Directions:

(Your child will need to be supervised during this activity.)

1.  Take the cutting shears and snip off shoots that are bright in color of differentiating lengths.  Depending on the child’s age, you may want him or her to do their own cuttings so you’ll want to remind them of the plants they are allowed to snip and the ones they are not.  Excellent species to use for this type of arrangement are catmint, hydrangea, nasturtiums, campanula, yarrow, sunflowers, sedum, butterfly bush and lavender.  

2.  Fill the masons jar with warm, temperate water (not cold) and set aside.

3.  Once you have your floral clippings ready, place one at a time in the vase, fluctuating between colors and lengths to design an attractive an interesting piece.  Be sure to turn the jar as you add stems to avoid off balanced bouquets and clumping.  Try to only touch a flower once as well because the more times the petals are disturbed, the greater chance of bruising or breakage.

4.  Once you have filled the vase, bring the piece inside and place on your table.  If you have more spare containers and an overflowing garden bed, create several others and gift to loved ones and neighbors.  

When you think of famous people, actors, doctors, astronauts and inventors may be the first professions that come to mind.  These are the careers chosen to influence the world by making it better place through ingenuity, brilliance, healing, entertainment and discovery.  While these are obviously some of the most sought after positions, it’s imperative we take a look at those who have gifted society with beauty-perhaps a florist could fit well in this category?  Over the years, there are certain florists who have pushed their way up to the top due to their impressive visions of creative floral design.  Gifted with imagination, talent and the ability to implement inventive presentation by the use of blossoms, these famous designers have truly put their mark on the industry, revolutionizing our appreciation and pride within the floral industry.  Read their stories and learn how they rose to become the highest celebrated professionals in their realm.  

Simone Gooch - photo credit via http://www.dailyimprint.net

London

Simone Gooch has been said to be the top floral designer of London whose clients include Chanel, Hermes and Louis Vuitton.  Her style is categorized by a “minimalistic” approach and sways towards “less is more” attitude when designing pieces.  Gooch is often inspired by visiting wholesalers to see what catches her eye instead of always relying on ordering a particular type of flower.  Although London is known to encourage an “English feel” to their floral arranging, she prefers to be more architecturally animated instead of compact as the traditional style demands.

Klaus Wagner

Germany

Klaus Wagner is an important industry leader for his native country of Germany where he is the first German designer to be awarded the honor of “World Champion”.  He depends solely on inventing new materials to use in his arrangements, creating optimally extensive “works of art” instead of mere bouquets in vases.  Kraus is the owner of the flower shop, “Blooms” as well as a floral publishing house and agency.

Menno Kroon  

Holland

Menno Kroon comes from a country where floral designing is one of the most competitive professions you can be in, yet he still manages to rise to the top as one of the best.  Starting at a young age, Kroon was mesmerized by anything that grew, particularly seeds and their process to grow into something beautiful.  He nurtured his passion by studying under some of the most renowned florists in the Netherlands until he, too became a Dutch Master himself.  He is not only recognized for his beautiful talent with flowers but also for his interior and exterior designing skills.  

On Wednesday, July 12th: Arnold 'Sonny' Canale will have been the owner and operator of Lombardi Florist for 60 years. An amazing testament to talent, work ethic and care for clients. As we tell clients every day, he must be doing something right.

In 60 years - he's sold more than five million roses, one million carnations, more than one million deliveries, grown thousands of poinsettias and outdoor plants and has designed a million floral arrangements. He has operated five locations, supported dozens of charities and employed hundreds. Three Best of Boston awards, a World Series florist, a PGA Championship florist, FTD Top 1000, Top 500, Top 250, Top 100 and Top 10. Telelfora Top 50. Floral Management Marketer of the Year, RedBook Circle of Excellence. The numbers are not only staggering but humbling.

Stop by the shop on July 12 and say hi. We'll have treats and surprises.

609 American Legion Hwy, Roslindale, MA 02131

617-247-2000 

If you are soon expecting a bouncing baby boy or girl, you may be feeling a bit overwhelmed about what’s to come…  It is a time for joy but it can also be a little anxiety driven due to big changes soon to come.  For many women, they are well versed on how to take care of this situation during pregnancy and stock up well in advance with things that relieve their discomfort.  For some, lavender infused tea may due the trick and for others a soothing massage could be what gets the kinks out.  Comfort foods, soft clothing, long naps, a relaxing walk and fizzy bubble baths are just a few of the medicines many pregnant women utilize.  

photo credit via http://www.karenscottreflexology.com

If you are a lover of flowers, you might want to consider a simple aromatherapy tactic that doctors and florists swear by.  No, you don’t have to drink elixirs filled with petals or swallow an all-natural pill with remnants of roots or leaves to make you feel better.  The answer is simple when looking to implement blossoms to ease expecting mom’s irritability, soreness and other common maladies related to pregnancy.  It is a proven fact that by selecting certain varieties of flowers to be placed inside the home, you can alleviate a multitude of symptoms just by having them near you.  Based on color and scent, floral designers can actually create perfect arrangements that will help mom feel happier and healthier.  If you are a soon-to-be who is having a difficult time adjusting to Mother Nature’s calling, try these helpful plant ideas to help you find a source of restful peace.

Color

If you are looking to select flowers based on their color, you might want to pick up a bunch or purple iris or yellow daffodils.  Science says that purple and yellow are instant triggers to encourage tranquility and serenity.  While it is commonplace to give pregnant women bouquets of either pink or blue in relation to the baby’s sex, experts insist the other options available might be a better choice.  

Scent

This is a tricky area because many expecting moms suffer from over sensitivity when it comes to their sniffers.  Stay away from strong scented species such as roses and lilies and opt for a softer smelling variety like sweet pea or ranunculus.  The last thing you want to do is make her even more nauseous than she already is so be sure to ask your florist for suggestions.

Get outside and plant something.

Being outside with plants is good for your mind, body and soul.

Fresh air, exercise and an immeasurable feeling of being whole.

Many people prefer the color green when asked for their favorite shade but what do you do when selecting the same tint in your flowers?   Sure, red, orange, yellow, blue, purple, and pink are easy to come by in the floral world but green is a lot harder.  If it makes you feel any better, a person who is drawn to this shade is often considered exotic in nature, much like the varieties that might appeal to you!  It’s a common misconception that lovers of green will only have the option of selecting dyed green carnations or roses, which are – less face it - only a practical decision around Saint Patrick’s Day.  

The truth be told, I can assure you, there is in fact a multitude of gorgeous flowers grown in your preferred likeness.  Although few existed decades ago, green has become a trendy color, increasing the shade’s demand.  Botanists and growers spend millions of dollars cultivating this fashion forward hue so that customers like you can enjoy them!  If you’re not sure where to begin, check out this list of spectacular green blooms that can be ordered from your local florist.

Green Anthurium

If green is your color, you might want to become knowledgeable about tropical plants and flowers because there are many species available to you.  Preferring climates with warmer wet conditions, it is a safe bet New England won’t have many of this type of flora and fauna harvesting in the fields although they are shipped here quite regularly.  One sample is the anthurium, which has a shiny textured surface and a heart-shaped head.  They can get a bit pricey but are well worth the cost because they are long lasting and stunning to behold.  

Green Hellebores

This variety is one of my all time favorites to grow in my garden but I also adore it as a cut flower, too!  These heart spring blossoms have pretty star heads and are attached in clumps much like hydrangea.  Depending on the type, the green can sometimes change to maroon as the season wears on but there’s also a soft shade of emerald that carries with the flower while it is still in bloom.  

Green Succulents

If you haven’t been introduced to succulents yet, I bet they will be right up your alley because they grow in a wide array of greens ranging from light to darker shades.  You can place these inside your house in pots or enjoy them out on the patio during the warmer temperatures.  They’ll be easy to find as well since most greenhouses carry succulents, being a popular purchase for gardeners.  

How often have you visited your local florist and been envious of the way they can whip up bouquets like there’s nothing to it?  So, you go home, snip a few blooms out of the garden and think you can make the identical replica no problem, right?  WRONG!  There is a skill associated with making hand held bouquets that requires an eye for color, taste and the ability to follow a process.  Yes, it’s true.  Anyone can learn if they have the patience and passion to work with flowers and you don’t need a horticultural degree to do it.  Let this guide lead you through the steps towards creating beautiful arrangements for your home and events without having them look disastrous.

If you have a garden, particularly a perennial garden, you have a strong advantage from those who don’t because the product is waiting for you in your backyard.   If you don’t possess a green thumb, visit local farms that usually sell bundles of single variety blooms.  No matter what the temptation, stay out of your neighbor’s yard because it’s likely they won’t be pleased you’ve helped yourself to their hard earned harvested blossoms.  

When you’ve selected your stems, try to make choices that will allow you to make pretty contrasts between textures and colors.  Unless you’re using all of the same kind, mix spiky heads with wide faced petals and leafy foliage with simple greenery.  Do not overload the combination with too many things that just don’t go together.  If you want to play it safe, try arranging same shaded flowers instead of getting creative before you’re ready.  Learn the basics first.

Now that you’ve gathered all your flowers, it’s time to put them all together!  The trick to this is you want to slowly add stems to the bunch and turn the bouquet while you’re doing this.  That way, each side will balance allowing fewer holes and clumping.  Do not make it any bigger than what your hand can fit and tie a ribbon around the middle to finish it off.  Place in a vase or give as a gift to someone you love.  They’ll adore the thought and your floral efforts.

Is it the flowers ?

Is it the dirt ?

Is it the hard work ?

It's all that.

when you are working outside and dirt weaves through your hands, your endorphins get going. Step outside and make your life better.

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Flowers are capable of providing us with many benefits including aromatherapy, visual stimulation and beautiful décor to name just a few.  We enjoy the color, the shape and texture which we use as ornamental items in our houses, yards and even business offices to elevate our moods and general well being.  Florists will be the first ones to tell you the positive attributes of placing bouquets throughout living spaces and there is even evidence that doing so can elongate a person’s lifespan.  That’s pretty incredible, right?  But what if I was to tell you that certain flowers also possessed a bit of magic?  No really, I mean it!

Those practicing the art of spell work and other related mysteries beyond our world would tell you that there is indeed a relationship between true enchantment and blooms.  While not every petal you find can produce a mystical forth giving, there are those that can provide healing such as cleansing, peace and wisdom.  Still not buying this yet?  Take a peek at these flowers that have been known to work their magic beyond the human realm…

Black Eyed Susan’s for example are tied to being connected to those who have passed away.  For loved ones who are no longer with us, this summer perennial is said to be an inducer for mediumship.  It is said if you place them by your home you will increase your chances of calling loved ones who are now deceased into your dreams.   

The Hollyhock is also an interesting plant to study since it’s said to bind you to your past lives.  Hollyhock is believed to accentuate the ability to remember who you were in terms of reincarnation where you may be able to “sense” certain previous relationships, skills and life journeys from long ago.

Lilies are something you might want to invest in if you are thinking about re-landscaping your yard because they are known to attract angels-yes angels!  In doing so, you are inspiring safety, peace and spiritual wellness to surround your home.