Exotic Flowers in Boston

Did you know that flowers are considered one of the top ten luxury items bought in the United States?  We usually don’t consider a bouquet of roses to be expensive enough to be deemed “luxurious” but still, according to surveys, flowers continue to remain a popular purchase for dispensable income.  

Interesting isn’t it?

But what if I told you that there are real varieties of plant species that have been recorded as sold in the hundreds and even sometimes thousands?  There are virtually species in existence that are regarded as priceless specimens, which are heavily sought out after to be included in rare flower and orchid collections.  There is proof that on auction, a priceless plant can demand close to a million dollars from bidders. I don’t know about you but the most I think I’ve ever spent is a couple of hundred dollars on ranunculus, hydrangea and chocolate cosmos arrangements.  Never, have I come close to spending anywhere near to the price tags hanging from some of the world’s most expensive blooms.  Have you?

Saffron Crocus

Many of us have some sort of variety of crocus pop up from our gardens during the early spring but if you happen to posses this particular breed, we’re talking big bucks because the average price is around $1300.00 per pound for the nectar!  The precious herb, saffron, is derived from the pretty deep purple flower, which is why it is considered so valuable.  Since it takes several blooms to collect enough saffron to be ground properly, the flower heads are worth even more to owner.

The Juliet Rose

We all know that there are many different varieties of peach and pink roses but have you ever heard of a rose costing five million dollars to create?  Well, in this case, the Juliet Rose is one of a kind and has infamously been named as the most expensive rose in the entire world!  Now commercially cloned this rose was a pioneer in the wedding rose world.

photo credit: higherlearning.com

Rothschild’s Orchid

I’m an orchid lover, through and through but this species, which has a unique green and red striped head with long thin petals extending from the middle, supersedes my budget.  Each plant costs around $5000.00 per unit and sometimes even more depending on the seller.  Because of its beauty and rarity, the plant has come close several times to becoming extinct from thieves and hoarders who didn’t take care of them properly.  Now it grows sparingly in Malaysia.

March Madness begins on March 15th with NCAA teams racing down the courts to become the number #1 college basketball team in the country!  While some of you will participate office pools and placing your wagers on hopeful winners, some fans will be showing their spirit in other ways as they anxiously await the beginning of one of the most exciting sporting tournaments of the year.  Have you made your plans on how you will be watching who makes it to the Final Four?

photo credit via: valentine.gr

For those of you who are planning to watch the games while having a get together, choosing the perfect decorations to accessorize your March Madness party is a top priority!  Hang banners in the colors of your favorite teams, select party platters and bowls in the shape of half moon basketballs and you’ll need to devise a menu that compliments the occasion such as serving nachos organized as a basketball court, basketball cupcakes or veggie platters organized in a circle of orange carrots with green peppers to form the stitches.  

photo credit: petalstreet.com

If you’re thinking about really going for a fantastic basketball bash, you’ll need flowers of course!  Many are weary towards designing pieces in reflection of this event and fret about complications or expense.  Not to worry!  Florists are way ahead of the game per usual and have already begun organizing innovative and fun floral ideas to match you March Madness soiree.  From basketball inspired vase ware to blooms resembling key features of the sport, you’ll be amazed by the brilliance of our very best Boston designers.  Here’s a sneak peek of some of the best March Madness bouquets available to you

The month of March is the luckiest time of the year when we search for four leaf clovers, leprechauns and of course, their pot of gold at the end of a rainbow.  It’s the season of adventure, the season of mystery, and most of all, the season to find trinkets that we believe can bring prosperity to anyone clever enough to find them.  The magic that surrounds the idea of certain items enhanced with good fortune is a popular belief found throughout many cultures although Bostonians typically celebrate this during Saint Patrick’s Day.  Although we may never retrieve a perfect shamrock or trace the whereabouts of an imp’s treasure, there are certainly other tokens that are believed to be symbolic of “luck” and are quite a bit easier to obtain.  

One suggestion is to do a little research on varieties of flora and fauna that have been known to precipitate a shower of good tidings to all those who plant or place them within their homes.  In case you’re cringing, I wasn’t talking about those familiar green carnations that seem to arrive at the beginning of every March.  No, fortunately there are several other plants and flowers that have been labeled as “luck” driven conduits.  Although not all of them are shaded in green, these species are not only a good omen in your garden but also breath taking to feature in a favorite vase or landscaped bed.  If you’re looking to make a change from the traditional symbols of Saint Patrick’s charms, take a look at these varieties that promise to please and might even send good fortune your way!

Peace Lilies

The name of this flower is literally the characteristic it holds, which is the ability to enhance peace and a constant flow of positive energy whether they are in your garden, office or on your dining room table.  A Peace Lily’s creamy supple texture is translated into the flower’s nature to smooth out disagreements as well as raise comradely.  Not only are they stunning in appearance and easy to take care of, they are easily ordered from local florists in and around the city.  

Lucky Bamboo

Lucky Bamboo is the next most popular flower next to green carnations sold in the month of March.  The reason is because not only are these stalks inexpensive and readily available, they are believed to attract the five core luck factors (wealth, love, happiness, health and spirituality) to those who place them in a vase in their home.  If the funky abstract stems and cool presentation interests you, be sure to buy the stalks in multiple packs.  The more stems you have bunched together, the stronger the ability of the plant to attract the five lucky attributes.

Sunflowers

Not only are sunflowers one of my favorite blooms having strong round heads with color resembling sunshine, but they are also know to bring safety and protection to your family as well as nurture positivity within the home.  Other attributes to sunflowers include and increase of fertility, cultivation of new relationships and the ability to ward of those who are not truthful.

Flowers aren’t just used for display on your dining room tables-no sir.  These delicately bold gifts from Mother Nature are hitting the fashion world by storm, inspiring some of the most talented designers of the world to create spectacular frocks and accessories!  From daisies to roses, these striking blooms are headed straight for the runway, adorning exciting cutting edge presentations of fashion.  Not only are pant suits and dresses being accessorized with both faux and real blossoms but also scarves, hats, neckties and more!  If you’re a style lover who’s looking for an inspiring new look for 2016, search no further.  The conservative, sleek cuts are out and the gregarious flower fru-fru is in.  Move over Ms. Versace and Mr. Lagerfeld, there’s a fresh vogue turning heads in the fashion department bringing fun and flair to this year’s clothing racks.  Take a sneak peek at these innovative, provocative and glamorous tailored trends!

 Gown of Flowers - photo credit: lovethispic.com

Quoc Binh- Cosmos Pattern

photo credit: english.vietnamnet.vn

Plants are far more useful than we think. Beyond visual aesthetics, plants continually shape the world around us. They serve as the font for most of our oxygen, and adorn every building, sidewalk, home, and office. Whatsmore, plants are known to improve the environments where they exist, purifying the air, and giving boons related to their metaphysical properties of the old.

Folk tales abound surround plant species, detailing what their uses were- and are still used for in New Age practices today.

Plant Intelligence

Charles Darwin first elucidated plant intelligence in Power of Movement in Plants, and subsequent findings of plant intelligence have been asserted by neurologist Stefano Mancuso in a Ted Talk.

Ten Magical Plants for Happiness

Returning to the allure of the olden days, where herbs and plant life were readily used to treat both physical and mental ailments, try these ten beautiful flowering plants to promote happiness wherever you are!

1.Azalea

Spriety, flowering azaleas are known to attract benevolent energy, put a pep in your step, and brighten up any garden or room they’re in. Azaleas make wonderful flowering houseplants.

2. Beech

Long revered for casting hopeful wishes upon, Beech is purported to increase literacy skills (hear that bookworms?) and illuminates happiness in every soul that passes. Dr. Edward Bach elucidated Beech is ideal “for those who feel the need to see more good and beauty in all that surrounds them. . . to be able to be more tolerant, lenient and understanding of the different way each individual all all things are working to their own final perfection.”

3. Geranium:

Turn to the bloom of Geraniums to relieve negative thoughts to fonts of happiness. The essential oil of Geranium is said to prompt happiness while balancing the mind and body.

4. Hawthorn:

Sacred to peoples of the past, Hawthorn carried elicit happiness, invites benevolent spirits, and banishes negativity from your person and home.

5. Lily:

A lasting fan favorite, all varieties of Lily promote happiness and invite prosperity- making them a perfect addition to any home or office.

6. Lily of the Valley:

If you want a different spin on Lilies, Lily of the Valley dispels negativity, exudes happy energy, and has a measurable calming effect to those in its presence.

7. Neroli:

Feeling down, or know somebody that is? Invite Neroli into your space! The lovely plant promotes joy, happiness, and confidence. If you’re in inner conflict Neroli can help lift emotional blockages and uplift your spirit to make the best decisions going forward.

8. Quince:

Perhaps somewhat obscure, Quince is a bloom promoting love, happiness, and prosperity! People of old believed Quince protected from evil and negative energies.

9. Rose:

Of course the supreme flower of love and friendship also permeates all who surround it with peace and happiness.

10. Saffron:

Much loved my New Age practitioners, Saffron is believed to promote healing, happiness, and strength. The dried petals are sometimes used in sachets of herbs and oil to promote happiness.

Jessica Rae Pulver-Adell is the author of Holistic Healing: Enlivening Body, Mind and Spirit to Remedy Depression, Anxiety and Self Hate. She is currently writing her second book on Natural Medicine for Mind & Body. You can follow her work on Harbor Village.  

The fashion world is getting a fresh taste of inspiration in 2016 and it doesn’t include a designer’s variation in fabrics.  Flowers of every variety and dimension are hitting the runway, featured in some of the most elite fashion events of the year.  Around the world, florists are becoming involved within this competitive industry where they are showing innovative techniques and presentations with the use of imported product.  Orchids, roses, willow, and an eclectic multitude of tropical leaves are being sewn, glued and stapled onto dresses, blazers, hats, pants, skirts, shirts and more!  Contributing a breathtaking flare and contemporary vision, models are strutting these striking concoctions adorned with lavish blossoms everywhere from New York to Paris.  According to reviews, the floral fascination is making a splash and is leaving their audiences in awe.  

photo credit: franzgrabe.co.za/

Is this a fleeting trend?

A hoax?

photo credit: architecturaldigest.com

A desperate attempt to re-infuse clothing with personality and intrigue?

I don’t think so…  Talented designers are making serious headway by creating fashion forward ideas that will revolutionize what is shown on the cover of magazines and storefront windows.   Flowers have asserted themselves as being the new vogue when it comes to clothing and judging by these pictures, there’s no questioning why.  Take a look at these popular new looks and ask yourself if you see yourself dripping in daisies the next time you plan on attending a function!

Tis’ the season of giving and if you’re like the rest of the world, you’re probably starting to feel a little anxious about how all of the shopping will get done!  The truth is, there’s just not a whole lot of time left to purchase all of the holiday presents written on your list so you’ve got to come up with a realistic plan.  Gifts should be thoughtful, accommodating and affordable for your friends and loved ones.  Forget the expensive trinkets, useless junk and endless hours spent waiting in long lines and try something new!

Floral gifts are beginning to make a gigantic comeback as 2015’s gift of choice and there’s no doubt why.  Flowers are both cost efficient, easily attainable and pleases a wide variety of people, particularly the fussy ones who are hopeless to buy for.  Select varieties that are compatible to the giftee (no scent for those who dislike strong odors, plants for those who might be allergic to blooms) and watch them praise you for the heartwarming sentiment! 

When selecting the right floral product, you want to keep in mind a few factors.  Not every arrangement is appropriate for everyone so you’ll want to do your research first.  What colors do they prefer?  Do they like Christmas décor or subtle non-denominational pieces?  Is the climate chilly or hot and do they prefer sweet aromas as apposed to fruity?  It might seem silly but there are many instances where it is of the utmost importance to do your homework before calling or ordering on line.   For example, you wouldn’t want to give a poinsettia to someone who has a nippy cat or dog for a pet since this species must be kept inside from the cold weather and are poisonous to ingest.  The best gifts during the season are ones appropriate for the entire household’s enjoyment and safety.

Now that we’ve nailed down the basics of gifting with flowers, how about we browse the possibilities and head to our local florist!

If you’re mulling over the idea of picking a wedding date before the year is over, you might want to contemplate saying, “I do” on December 24th or 25th.  Sound like a ridiculous idea?  There are actually several positive aspects of throwing a Christmas Eve/Day ceremony including wider availability, lower costs for reception halls and higher accessibility to bridal vendors (eg. wedding planners).   Another bonus is that you’ll be choosing an important spot on the calendar, which decreases the likelihood of one of you forgetting your anniversary (trust me, it happens). 

For many couples who debate booking their nuptials in December, fear commonly derives from the flowers having to be an all white, red and green color palette but I assure you there are other options.  While it is true that these shades are abundant during the yuletide season and more affordable, florists can still create bridal worthy floral work without making the church or event room look like a lit up Christmas tree.  Keep in kind there will be varieties intertwined that are accustomed to the holiday product line but use this to your advantage.  Foliage such as pine is a lot cheaper than other greenery such a hosta leaves or ruscus.  In the long run, it will save you money so be aware of what your florist is carrying this month and compromise additions within pew markers and boutonnières.  From bouquets to table centerpieces, let these stunning samples convince you of the vast possibilities that await a holiday wedding celebration!

The trick to making a December wedding not look “Chrismasy” is to keep all three of the red, white and red color combination out of your bridal work.  One or two shades are okay but a third will bring you right back to the holidays and that’s what you want to avoid.  This bouquet features white ranunculus (luckily available at this time) and white hydrangea.  Place pearl pushpins in the center of the heads and you’ll dazzle with this stunning all-white-wedding theme. 

For those who desire a sultry style, you may want to go for the deep reds and burgundy color tone.  Not only is the look both wedding appropriate and beautiful, florists will be able to utilize the abundance of berries, amaryllis and roses that are popularly shipped into Boston during December.  Candlelight works really well against this sexy platform as well and inspires a romantic feel for both newlyweds and guests. 

You can’t get more glamorous than a thick bunch of green cymbidiums for a bride and her maid’s hand held bouquets.  These orchids are fabulous year round and also enhance an exotic appeal.  You might be worried that you can see white in the center as well as a touch of pinkish red but in no way does this pretend to be a Christmas inspired presentation.  The cymbidium bouquet is sleek and tropical so there’s no mistaking its bridal worthy effects.

Bringing Flowers Home to Boston

I’ve bet you’ve visited flower shops a million times before, carrying beautiful blossoms that strike you as soon as you walk through the front door.  Buckets of sunflowers, roses and hydrangeas are the most common varieties that are being carryied this month but did you ever wonder how they got there?  Often, we don’t take into account the logistics involved with flower transportation and don’t realize how this factor alters conditions including availability, longevity and even price influxes or reductions.  The process is quite fascinating when you really get down to it.  Understanding how it all works will not only help you to become a savvier shopper but it will also give you a greater appreciation for the stunning stems you bring home weekly to put on your tables.  So here’s how it works…

There are a few different approaches that florists use to select their flowers.  They can be local, meaning that they are grown in greenhouses and farms that are close in proximity to your area or they can be imported from far away, even from another country.  Let’s start with the “greener” method and begin in our own backyard…

Locally Grown

There are many reasons why you should consider buying flowers that have been raised to supply your floral specialty shops.  For one thing, their travel time from being cut, boxed and shipped is going to be considerably shorter than imports sent from far off places like Japan, France or Canada (although wait-there’s bonuses to that too).  This can positively affect the flower’s lifespan to be longer and lower costs due to a decreased need of fuel for gas or air flight. It also allows you to know more about the product and be able to find out how the crop was harvested and what by what means with regards to chemical vs. organic support materials.  Buy shopping locally, you can also help sustain these growers within your community thus supporting a higher production of fresh flowers for your neighborhood.  

Imports

Imported flowers are generally purchased from an auction or a large wholesaler that buys what the florists wants and then reships it to them after they have bought from a far away grower.  The first issue that needs considering is that they have a long way to go before they get here.  Airplanes are usually the first choice for shipping because they arrive relatively quickly and have a large storage area for cargo.  Problems associated with imported flowers usually pertain to delayed flights where the flowers are kept too long in heated facilities without water or my favorite-trouble with US customs when they arrive to the gates.  Any unordinary fibers or bugs will win that shipment a one-way ticket to the incinerator meaning they’ll never make it to the florist at their cost making things pricey.  Another problem is that buyers cannot see first hand what they are paying for since the order has to first survive its transportation route.  A spectacular sample of a dahlia looks great online but if it’s had a bumpy ride over, it can be quite disappointing to the end user.  So why do you ask, import flowers in the first place?  Countries such as Holland provide the world with an auction that showcases rare and unique product from around the world.  Things can get pretty dull when you’re using the same varieties of plants and flowers so including a broad range of choice helps designers create fresh and fun looks that keep their customers satisfied.  Being able to access a broader spectrum of color and texture is what keeps the industry learning constantly and adapting to contemporary themes and styles.  The third important reason for importing is that although New England grow beautiful product of our own, there are some things that we simply don’t have the conditions for.   This is when a secondary source becomes extremely useful particularly within wedding events.  Connecting with a large variety of suppliers both educates and influences Boston florists to provide the best arrangements for their customers so a healthy combination of the two is a Boston florist’s best bet!

Did you know that selecting a baby’s name is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when you become a first time parent?  So many first time moms and dads frantically plow down the pages of Baby Name books in the hopes that the perfect title for their child will pop out at them but reluctantly come up empty handed.  So before you find yourself in a tizzy dreading that you’re cute little bundle of joy will be nameless for the first couple of weeks, calm down and take a second to focus on what’s really important to you and your partner.

Daisy Duke via imdb.com

The meaning of a name relies heavily on the historical significance and then again on any ties it may have to a language such as Irish, German or Swedish dialect.  This might be important if you hope to keep a family name in existence or simply want the child to be tightly connected to their ethnic or cultural roots.  For other parents, their baby’s name must be thematic after a feeling or positive characteristic such as “hope or “joy”.  In this case, a baby book might really come in handy since most of them are organized in this manner.  

Rose McGowan via rose-mcgowan.com

But what if you’re looking to pass on a certain hobby, fascination or interest that you would love your child to represent?  Maybe something that is a part of you that you want instilled in your baby?  Something that you want remembered by them every time you hear their name?  What if you’re a flower lover….

It might come as a surprise, but choosing a name that is based on a flower is really quite common and not just for girls, but for boys, too!  Whether you’re a florist, grower, farmer, designer or simply a person who loves a beautiful bouquet of blossoms, take a peek at these names that might fit perfectly for your flower child!

    Sage Steele via People      

  Dahlia Antonia (“Anthos” meaning flower in Greek)

   Zinnea Ren (“lotus” in Japanese)

      Rose Jarred (“Rose” in Hebrew)

      Iris Kunal (“Lotus” of Sanskrit origin)

    Daisy  

Saffron (“Saffron” a flower used as a spice)

   Azalea  

  Narcissus (Used as a boys /girls name)

    Clover Basil (Fragrant herb)

   Rosemary  

  Indigo (Purple Plant commonly used in India)

    Poppy            

  Sage (aromatic herb)

Rosemary Clooney