Exotic Flowers in Boston

Super Bowl Sunday is February 13th this year. I know who can focus on Valentine's Day when football season is still on?

Join us for fun and romance at Exotic Flowers, 609 American Legion Hwy in Roslindale on Super Sunday. The store will be open from 9 am to 3 pm.

Our 72" TV Screen will have football on all day. We will have pizza and chocolates for your enjoyment while you can purchase roses, gift baskets, teddy bears, and all things for your favorite Valentine.

Beat the rush this holiday and have some fun on Sunday. We'll see you this weekend.

Did you know there are over 100, 000 different varieties of roses?  Out of those, there’s another few thousand species of red, which are still the most popular color requested for Valentine’s Day floral deliveries. Now, you might think a rose is just a rose but some species have made a name for themselves based on their exotic beauty, durability and pristine formation.  Due to these impeccable characteristics, growers devise a list of the most spectacular burgundy, maroon, crimson, scarlet, and ruby shades to promote to wholesale and retail customers around the world.   While super stunners such as “Darcy”, “Chrysler Imperial”, “Eternity”, “Black Magic” and “Samourai” have remained some of the top favorites by florists, a new breed is taking the industry by storm and is expected to become a hot seller for the upcoming Valentine’s Day holiday.

photo credit via Rosaprima

The Black Pearl Rose

The “Black Pearl” rose is becoming one of the hottest items this season and judging by its appearance, there’s little argument as to why.  The deep lush tone of blood red crimson is truly invoking, as is the flower’s velvet petals that promote a romantic effect when paired next to candlelight.  Being a relatively new variety, the Black Pearl is RosaprimaInc.’s premier pride amongst their other products and is referred to as the “crown jewel” of the rose world.  Sold exclusively by the rose grower, this stunner is cultivated in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador and shipped to designers who utilize the stems in prominent arrangements saved for their most exclusive clientele.

Most of us associate Valentine’s Day with cards and roses, gifting these treats to those who are or would like to be in relationships.  Teddy bears, chocolates and fuzzy romantic packages are exchanged on the 14th to signify couple’s love for one another as well as those who seek to find companionship.  The tradition started back in the Roman times and is still celebrated today becoming one of the largest retail holidays during the year, particularly for Boston florists.  

But what is the significance of February 14th in terms of historical importance?  You would be surprised to learn that there is a fascinating story, which is believed to be the real meaning behind Valentine’s Day (and that doesn’t include Cupid’s arrows or other mythical characters).  In fact, the ritual can be traced all the way back to 200 AD Rome when it was under the control of a brutal ruler named Claudius II.

Claudius II was a fierce emperor who believed that any romanticism, which encouraged his young and single soldiers, was only a distraction and curtailed the strength and brutality his army to become weakened.  So much so that he banned all future marriages for those who remained unwed and illegalized any other rites that could be seen as similar.  

For Priest Valentine who had performed all of the matrimonial ceremonies for several years, this became an outrage.  Ignoring Claudius’ orders, he performed these ceremonies in hiding until one day he was caught and arrested.  During his incarceration, he met the jailor’s daughter who was blind (he later healed her sight) and fell in love.  Soon afterwards, the jailer’s family secretly converted to Christianity but was unfortunately captured by the emperor’s soldiers after learning of their treason and they too were sentenced to death. Although the tale has no happy ending (both lovers were executed by clubbing and decapitation), Valentine left a note to the jailer’s daughter before his death reading, “From Your Valentine”.  Later, Valentine became a Saint and was idolized as the patron of this holiday.

Thousands of years later, we still recognize February 14th as a time to express our feelings of adoration for one another and utilize Priest Valentine’s gesture by presenting cards, roses and other sweets to our loved ones.  

Valentine’s Day flowers have usually been associated with the colors red and pink. There’s nothing wrong with this but wouldn’t it be nice if we could shake things up a bit?  Don’t get me wrong, a bouquet filled with these two tints, which signify love and sweetness are very pretty and complimentary to one another but it would be fun to add a pop of color every now and then?  Really, why limit our selves to red roses and pink tulips when there are so many stunning varieties to choose from that are equally beautiful.  Thankfully, Boston florists are recognizing a need to switch up a few of the customary blossoms this February and go for a fresh array of product that will hopefully please and excite their customers.  

One trend that is beginning to make headway is the replacement of rouge with lavender.  What’s pushing purple to be used more often than red?  There’s a good few reasons why… For one thing, orders that are created with traditional shades are twice as expensive as opting for a less seasonal color.  Purple roses can be significantly less expensive than a box of long stem red roses and in many cases will last longer, too.  A second reason why lavender is being seen more often in Valentine’s Day pieces is because the color is both sultry and sexy-two prominent themes we like to see in romantic arrangements.  The last reason is because there’s a lot more to choose from in this color giving patrons a broader spectrum to select from.  As found in other industries, it’s a simple case of supply and demand.  There’s less availability of an item when the need suddenly spikes causing the price to increase.

So if your starting to change your mind about red versus purple flowers this holiday, you’ll be happy to know that designers are already lining up their carts with stunning flavors other than roses. Holding the desirable pigmentation, all are available through your local florist this Valentine’s Day so be sure to say it with flowers and say, “I Love You”.  

Valentine’s Day is all about hearts, chocolates and flowers but on the years when the holiday falls on either a Friday, Saturday or Sunday (this year the 14th is on a Sunday), Boston couples will be happy to know there are additional options available to say you “I Love You”… to make a huge impression.

Booking a romantic getaway is just the thing to spark the love in a relationship and lucky for us, there are plenty of great places that are in close proximity to the city. Without having the nuisance of traveling by plane, those wanting to escape for a couple of days can find the perfect hotel or inn that best suits you and your honey’s tastes.  Whether your interests lie in the country where you can enjoy romantic walks in the woods or a more urban approach of sipping martinis inside of a fancy nightclub, Boston has an extensive variety of places to choose from!  Many hotels will also offer package deals, which may include couple’s massages, champagne brunch or complimentary roses.  So if you’re interested in adding a bit more spice to the festivities this Valentine’s Day, visit these sensational locations to celebrate the day of love in style!

Lake Salem Inn, Derby, Vermont

Not only do the rooms have a magnificent view of Lake Champlain but visitors will also get treated for a romantic dinner for two, spa treatments and complimentary flowers. Oh, and make sure you try the Champlain chocolates-they’re delicious!

Stoweflake Mountain Resort and Spa, Stowe, Vt.

I’ve stayed here before and boy did we have a great time appreciating the gorgeous mountain landscape as well as their indoor pool, outdoor Jacuzzi, spa, salon, restaurants and game room!  The hotel is affordable as well as an easy trip back to the city.

The Eastland Park Hotel, Portland, Maine

This is a great deal. You get breakfast in bed, truffles and a free set of pajamas for you and your sweetheart!

XV Beacon Hotel, Boston, MA

This hotel is featuring two special deals this year, which both offer an incredibly menu of romantic enticing.  Breakfast in bed, late check out times, champagne, chocolate covered strawberries, rose petal bed turndowns and a warm fireplace right in the room are all a part of the inspiring possibilities for couples.   

Valentine’s Day is on Sunday, February 14th and there are millions of happy couples that are already planning their romantic getaways (it’s a long weekend by the way).  But for millions of other people, this holiday can be a real downer because the truth is-not everyone is involved in a lovey dovey relationship!  For those who find themselves in the thick of this category, you may not want to reminded by the bombardment of heart shaped cards, chocolates and roses being gifted to seemingly everyone but you.  It’s depressing, frustrating and flat out obnoxious to feel the emotions of being left out of an entire holiday based on whether you have a significant other on a single day of the calendar.

That’s why I’ve decided to change my annual “Most Romantic Valentine’s Day Movie Pick List” to the “Funniest Valentine’s Day Flicks”.  That’s right!  I’m throwing out the tear jerking, steamy, love affair scenes for a more entertaining look at what really goes on between most couples.  Seriously, have you ever honestly been able to put yourself in the place of the characters in “The Notebook”, “Sleepless in Seattle or “Love Actually”?  Did you know that even the movie, “Titanic” is listed as one of the top most romantic movies of all time?  How about “Legend’s of the Fall”?  Have you seen that one where the women are fighting over hunky cowboys like Brad Pitt and making love in barns and haystacks?  Come on!  Let’s get real here people… It’s time to throw out some of the fru-fru fantasy and pop in a DVD that we can at least somehow relate to!

So here’s what I’m advertising this year for Valentine’s Day flicks-movies that are comical, embarrassing, awkward and undeniably enjoyable.  These are for those who are married, divorced, coupled, single or anybody who simply doesn’t want to celebrate this year’s holiday covered completely in romantic sap.  

Valentine’s Day will be here before you know it and you don’t want to greet your sweetheart empty handed like you did last year.  As some of us may be forgetful about the holiday that occurs every February 14th, it’s helpful to have a reminder along with some quick gift suggestions.  Depending on whom you are planning to woo, Valentine’s Day presents should be suitable for their personality and character.   Gifts can be separated into all sorts of categories but for this purpose we’ll use the top five themes with the top five gifts to keep things simple; traditional, romantic, funny, cost efficient and of course- sexy.  Within each one of these segments, you’re bound to find the perfect something for your girlfriend that is just right for her! Try out these items that are sure to leave her bubbled over with love this holiday…

Traditional

1. Box of Chocolate
2. A Dozen Red Roses
3. A Bottle of Wine
4. Perfume  
5.  Jewelry

Romantic

1. Scented Candles
2. Her Favorite Romantic Comedy on DVD
3. Dinner at her Favorite Restaurant
4. A Weekend Getaway
5. “Why I Love You” Diary/Journal

Funny

1. “Your Side My Side” Pillowcases
2. Fuzzy Bedroom Slippers
3. A Chocolate Game Controller
4. Mug That Says “I Love You More Than Coffee”
5. Condoms

Cost Efficient (Cheap)

1. A Single Red Rose
2. “Reasons Why I Love You” Message in a Bottle
3. A Teddy Bear
4. Handmade Coupon Book with Favors for your Sweetheart
5. Her Favorite Lipstick

l

Sexy

1. Lingerie
2. Kama Sutra Book
3.  Silk Robe/Pajamas
4. Bath and Body Gift Set
5. Feed her a Favorite Meal Blindfolded

Valentine’s Day is soon approaching where bright red and pink hearts will be seen everywhere!  Originally named after the Christian Saint, Valentines, February 14^th has been celebrated for a long time throughout history that originally dates back five centuries ago.   Although there is much disagreement as to how exactly the holiday came to pass, most agree that it is a day where we share our sentimental feelings with the ones we love.  Bostonian couples are infamous for their appreciation for Valentine’s Day where some dine in the most decadent restaurants within the city, stay in one of our five star hotels or exchange gifts that signify their adoration for their partner.  Right now, Bean Town is gearing up for the excitement, which will fall on the second Saturday of the month.  How do you plan on celebrating Valentine’s this year?  Here are a few ideas to get the romantic creativity flowing.

Sweet Treats

A box of chocolates is nice but it’s not original.  Find out what your honey’s favorite sweet treats are and package them nicely in a heart shaped bag or box.  Gumballs, fireballs, gummy bears, M&M’s, sweet tarts are a few options.  The local “Party” stores have a wide range of packaging selections including an entire aisle dedicated solely for this holiday.  He or she will love the added extra effort, but if you're short on time Exotic Flowers does have traditional heart shaped chocolates along with Godiva gold box in the Exotic Flowers gift bag.

Flowers Are A Must

You know it’s true.  She’ll never forgive you if she doesn’t receive that beautiful bouquet of flowers for Valentine’s Day but does it have to be the generic red roses thing again?  Don’t get me wrong, they’re pretty and all but why can’t you spark things up this year by doing the unspeakable…ordering something different?  Many floral customers don’t realize that there are a ton of choices out there like tulips, hydrangea, sweet pea, ranunculus, hyacinth and my favorite, orchids.  Some of these varieties last a lot longer than roses and are far more interesting to look at in the long run. (Keep an eye out for more on Valentine’s Day flowers in upcoming articles). 

Something Cuddly

Ok, teddy bears are the number one seller for the month of February but again- I think we can do better.   If you truly want to satisfy an animal lover, why not think about sponsoring an actual animal at the local zoos or aquariums?  Many of these organizations have programs where you can donate a set amount of money to be used for the care and well being of Boston’s animal inhabitants.  Seals, giraffes, gorillas, lions, bears, tigers, elephants, flamingos and so many more need help in funding to maintain their homes.  Contact the Boston Aquarium, Franklin and Stoneham Zoos for more information on how you can help.  Then make sure that you pick up a stuffed toy of the animal you choose to sponsor and watch your Valentine melt over the gesture and the snuggly warm gift. 

Suzie and Rick Canale, Westwood, MA 2014

Suzie's husband Rick always designs Suzie's Valentines flowers.