Exotic Flowers in Boston

You’ve bought the candy, made the reservation at her favorite restaurant and now its time to order flowers.  You’ve decided to go with a pretty mix of vibrant colors instead of the traditional red roses and you’re feeling pretty good about the Valentine’s Day plans you’ve made so far.  There’s just one small problem…what do you say on the card to make her really understand your deep felt sentiments?  It has to be personal, original, meant for her eyes-only but what words do you choose to say? 

Relax, there’s a simple model for successfully conquering this common anxiety ridden task.  The first thing that needs to be done is to truly understand what feelings you want to convey.  Is it love or lust?  Is the relationship casual or serious?  How long have you been together?  Is this a long-standing partnership or brand new?  What about her personality?  Is she romantic, creative, sensitive or funny?  See, all of these aspects must be weighed before taking out that pen to scribe your feelings.  Unfortunately, a message ill written or taken the wrong way may be destructive to your relationship with your Valentine so your card has to be clear.  Once you’ve decided which thematic path you wish to travel on, commit and select the perfect message that conveys those feelings.  These are a few of my favorites that have put a smile on my face. 

For the Valentine whose put in her time over the years:

Cupid’s aim is still pretty good!

For the 1-2 year relationship:

With you, it’s Valentine’s Day 365 days of the year.

For the 70’s peppy music lover:

How sweet it is, to be loved by you!

For the 80’s sentimental music lover:

You take my breadth away….

For the unsuspecting Valentine:

Be Mine

For the math loving Valentine:

You + Me = Forever     or       You + Me + Perfect

For the exotic romantic language loving Valentine:

Je t’aime

For the Poetry lover:

Even in a fairy tale where every dream comes true, I could never hope to find a husband/wife as sweet as you.

For the “Working Things Out” Valentine:

The best proof of love is trust

Suzie and Rick Canale were married on July 12, 2003. Their wedding song was Love by Nat King Cole.

What is the top gift for women on Valentines Day?  Is it a box of chocolates or a dozen red roses?  Those gifts are certainly popular but lingerie remains the top requested item for the holiday.  The reason is because lace and silk make a woman feel sexy, appealing and most importantly, wanted by her someone special.  Now this can sometimes become problematic for the shy guy unwilling to brave it alone through stores selling undergarments.  We have all seen that male customer enter Victoria Secrets with a hat pulled down over his eyes and that hilarious stutter when a sales person asks if she can help him find anything in particular.  It can be a rough task but knowing beforehand exactly what you want to purchase takes a whole lot of pressure off.  How are you supposed to know what she likes?  Research is the key and here are a few tips to get you started.

Color plays a huge impact when buying bras, underwear, teddies or nightgowns.  Certain shades reflect certain personalities and role-playing so take a little time to notice what her tastes and preferences are in the bedroom.  White can be a great choice which represents more of the “play hard to get” kind of girl but black might also be the way you want to go if she’s more of an exotic or serious partner.  Red works well for women who love playing the seductress and pink pairs well with the flirtatious type.  Yellow and blue are your safety picks when you’re not quite ready to choose a bedroom personality for her yet.  If you really want to indulge in the fantasy, buy her something in purple, which stands for passion and sexuality.

Body types can determine the right style for your sweetheart so it’s another area that you need to pay close attention to.  Take notice what her best physical assets are (legs, back, use your imagination) and select outfits that show them off.  Silk slip nightgowns are really flattering on a full size woman as is a great bustier.   Bra and panty sets are perfect for a woman with height and for the slighter gal, a teddy combination with wrap is the right choice.  If she’s on the petite side, try a two-piece thong and push up bra made solely of lace.  Several lingerie companies suggest purchasing a robe to accompany the undergarments bought making this truly a romantic gift tailored specifically for your special someone. 

 So you’ve figured out a plan and now you need to know where to go.  Victoria Secret is the heavy hitter in this category and has several locations around the Boston area including Copley Place, Newbury Street, Legacy Place and Faneuil Hall.  If you want to try somewhere else, check out Intimacy, also in Copley Place, La Perla on Huntington Avenue, and Forty Winks in Cambridge.  All of these companies carry high-end , beautiful sleepwear that also promises to “wow” your girl this Valentines Day!

 Suzie and Rick Canale, Chestnut Hill MA January 2015

Roses may seem to be the major player on Valentine’s Day but the truth is, not everyone likes roses.  I know there are other flowers to choose from such as lilies, tulips, hydrangea and other beautiful blossoms that florists carry for the holiday but in some circumstances, there are women who just don’t enjoy cut flowers as a gift.  It may be the maintenance of changing murky water or the disappointment when petals drop and die too soon but whatever the case, that bouquet just might not impress your lady.  Does this mean nix the call to your florist altogether?  Of course not!  You’ll need their help more than ever in choosing just the right Valentine’s Day presentation that is sure to get her heart pumping.  One suggestion that I know they’ll give is the option of plants instead of flowers.  If you think about it, this is a great idea since there is a variety to pick from with breeds ranging from color, scent, expense, life expectancy and caring instructions.  I’ve broken down a few types of plants to match particular women’s personalities.  Does your sweetheart match any of these?

Busy but Grateful

Look, she appreciates the gesture and all but this girl simply does not have the time to take care of a needy plant.   Honestly, you love this all business attitude of hers and like her independent personality so why send her a different message in the flowers you give her for Valentines Day?  Try ordering a white Phalaenopsis plant, which is both classy and easily taken care of on its own with the exception of occasional watering.  Another great option is a bamboo creation that is both eye pleasing and fuss free.   It will look great in her apartment and also remind her that you support her individuality and determination.

Sweet and Sentimental

You have a few choices if you’re lucky to be gifting a woman who’s not necessarily into cut flowers but adores the romantic act of a sweet and sentimental present.  It’s likely that she feels this way because she hates to see living things die so be mindful of long lasting selections.  Leaning towards flowering plants such as spray roses, hydrangea or heather is just the right fit for this type.  The presentation is warm and loving while still respecting her taste.   Great color choices for this category are pink, red and blush, which perfectly match this theme of romantic and beautiful flowering plants. 

Edgy and Modern

This girl is a challenge because she likes to promote her contemporary yet edgy appeal, the characteristics that got you to fall for her in the first place.  Its not that she’ll kill anything quickly or be saddened if a bouquet dies too fast, it’s more likely that she wants to think she’s beyond the traditional Valentine’s Day greenery.  Try asking for planters of Bromeliad, Calla Lilies or Cyclamens.  They make a stunning presentation and she’ll love your boldness made by this modern move!

 Suzie & Rick Canale, Westwood, MA

Suzie loves plants and repots herbs and orchids during the winter.

Valentine’s Day is one of the biggest gift-giving holidays of the year specializing in flowers, chocolates, jewelry and lingerie.  On February 14^th, women all over the country will be unwrapping treats from their sweethearts with romantic and sentimental gestures in mind.  Wait a minute, what about a gift for him?  Ok, so he leaves toothpaste in the sink and sometimes snores too loud but all in all, he’s a great guy and maybe it’s time to reciprocate the gesture with a thoughtful present this year.  You might think that there’s no real appropriate Valentine’s gift for a man since it may seem kind of sappy but with some careful research, you can find something perfect for him.  Don’t kid yourself, men like attention just as much as we do although they may seem to hint otherwise.  Valentine’s Day treats can be meant for both him and her so be mindful not to forget your sweetheart this February!

For the Foodie

There are a lot of great gifts you can grab for the guy who loves food such as a gift card to his favorite restaurant or a cookbook written by his most talked about chef.  Great suggestions include southern barbecue publications, the “Food Truck” compilation and “Heritage” written by Sean Brock.  Make sure the cookbook reflects his tastes and you might just inspire him to do more of the cooking in the future!  If you want to add a great accessory, pick up the flick, “Chef” (my husband's favorite movie in 2014) starring Jon Favreau to go with it.  He’ll love brushing up on how to make his top dishes and I promise, he’ll love the movie too!

For the Sports Guy

Ok, the football thing can drive us nuts sometimes but he loves it so why not pick him up a couple of tickets to the next Patriots, Celtics, Bruins or Red Sox game?  He can take one of his buddies so he can truly enjoy the experience and you can head to the spa for your own entertainment.  It’s a win win present for both of you!

For the Guy’s Who’s Always On Time.  Or Late.

Men love watches for several reasons.  They’re stylish, fashionable man jewelry and assists in getting them to where they need to go.  Now we’re not talking Rolex here, just a nice piece that looks great at an affordable price.  Several companies exist who provide these but you might want to check out Timex’s “Weekender” watch that has a cool wrist band, contemporary sporty face and awesome affordability in price. 

For the Cocktail Guy

These are so cool, there’s no doubt he’ll flip when he unwraps them.  “Double Walled Whiskey Glasses” are the newest rave in barware and are so visually appealing that they can be used for a variety of other purposes. Designed in ultra thick glass, the cups are formed in an oval shape with two layers displaying both the beverage and a beautiful sheen from reflected light.  The chic presentation will surely have your guy’s heart thumping this Valentine’s Day!

 Suzie and Rick Canale together since 2000. 

Children have amazing little minds because they often learn the first key components of a new concept through words and images found in picture books.  For my five-year-old son, it was books where he learned all about Christmas, Thanksgiving and Halloween including the colors and traditions associated with these holidays.  Now that Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, I’ve made a conscience effort to search far and wide for the best picture books, which explain this time for red and pink hearts.  I look for stories that have a clear story, are simple enough to apply to things he actually sees around him and ones that contain illustrations which legitimately reflect common images related to Valentine’s Day.  Incredibly enough, more and more authors are choosing to write about February 14^th making it easier for us parents to select the right material appropriate for our children.  After carefully reading the selection available in my local library I came up with these beautiful children’s books that are perfectly paired with the spirit of Valentine’s Day. 

Happy Valentine’s Day Mouse

By Laura Joffe Numeroff

From the author of, “If You Give A Mouse A Cookie” is the Valentine’s Day inspired board book, “Happy Valentine’s Day Mouse”.  Geared towards toddlers and early reading youngsters, mouse begins to make his valentines for friends and then explains the reasons why he loves them each.  The story is very simplistic to understand and contains bold illustrations that are easy to follow along with the story. 

Llama Llama I Love You

Anna Dewdney

Another hit series writer, Anna Dewdney, writes and illustrates this lovely holiday accompaniment to her other “Llama Llama” books with a fresh and sweet story about giving hugs and hearts for Valentine’s Day.  Published as a board book, this is great for the young readers who are learning to sound out words and also a great gift for the teeny weenie reader who may have destructible hands. 

The Land of Chocolate Cosmos

Suzie Canale

“The Land of Chocolate Cosmos” is filled with a delicious “chocolate” theme, which we all know is symbolic of Valentine’s Day.  Written with a sweet message regarding the importance of recycling, kids will drool over the scrumptious images illustrated by Kevin Coffey while learning a valuable lesson about preserving our natural resources.   This is a wonderful book for kindergarteners through 2^nd grade.

 Suzie and Ryan Canale, Boston 2014

In addition The Land of Chocolate Cosmos, Suzie has published three other children's books. They are available to purchase at Exotic Flowers in Boston or available at The Westwood Public Library.

Bostonians are already booking their romantic dinner reservations for Valentine’s Day and are wondering what are the hotspots for February 2015?  If you’ve begun the search, you already know that there are a ton of options available to you, which can be like finding a needle in a haystack.  Not to worry there’s an easy way to find your perfect dining locale by asking yourself a few questions first.   What type of ambiance do you desire?  Which variety of cuisine are you hoping to eat?  What is your meal expenditure?  Are you looking for entertainment during your date or maybe a quiet and secluded environment?  These are important issues when designing a successful Valentine’s Day experience and will provide you with the useful information needed to make the correct choices.  For me, I prefer Italian food or fish rather than steak house menus and love a candlelit room but dislike it when you can barely see the person across from you.  (Last week I actually went to a restaurant where it was so dark, I couldn’t find my way out of the bathroom.)  So it might be wise to get a good feel for your partner’s tastes before booking a table.  Check out these Bean Town eateries that have always made my Valentine’s Day list and see if they are the right fit for you and your sweetheart!

Capital Grille

250 Boylston Street, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467

(617) 928-1400

This has been one of my haunts since moving into the city and I can honestly say that you almost can’t go wrong with anything ordered off the menu.  Although yes, it’s a steakhouse, they offer a variety of other delicious dishes including plank salmon and seasonal halibut with heirloom tomatoes.  The sides are incredible as well, specifically the sautéed spinach, mashed potatoes and frites.  I also highly recommend the Caesar salad and French onion soup that are definitely the best Ive tasted anywhere in Boston.

Towne Stove and Spirits

The Shops at the Prudential Center

900 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02115

(617) 247-0400

This is a great place to go because its location is directly next to the Prudential Center where there is an abundance of shopping and live entertainment including jazz music, piano bars and dance clubs.  The food is pretty good too where they offer a wide variety of gourmet induced cuisine such as their lobster pizza.  The chef prepares several shellfish concoctions including shrimp and lobster but allows a healthy selection of steak, poultry and duck for you meat lovers out there.  This is the place for you if you’re an adventurer in the kitchen and it’s likely that you’ll appreciate their interesting spin on popular restaurant dishes. 

 Suzie and Rick Canale January, 2015 Chestnut Hill MA 

It’s that time of year to be mushy and gushy and what better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than with a romantic flick?  Hollywood was founded on the principles of making movies with great love stories that most of us can only dream about.  Some are serious, some are tear jerkers and some are just flat out hilarious with botched relationships and zany hook ups.  The list is long as to what is available within this holiday genre but I can promise you, there is something for everyone no matter what your taste my be.  I have highlighted some of my top favorites over the years that whether if I’m alone or celebrating with that special someone, they are sure to keep my heart entertained! 

Love Stinks (1999)

This one is so good, I almost can’t wait to play the dvd on the 14^th – it’s that funny!  “Love Stinks” might be a chick flick but it is brutally honest (and hysterical) within the script, which tells the story of a woman who will stop at nothing to be married.  Starring Tyra Banks, Bill Bellamy, French Stewart and Bridgette Wilson, you’ll be amazed as to what “Chelsea” does to snag a ring from television writer, “Seth” who winds up literally running for his life.  “Love Stinks” is funny, racy and a perfect reminder that sometimes being alone for this holiday is a blessing.

Date Night (2010)

Tina Fey and Steve Carell take on the characters of a bored married couple, stuck in a rut.  With the intention to spice up their love life, the pair head out to a romantic dinner where they run into a case of mistaken identity.  Disaster erupts as they dodge danger around every corner but in the end realize that they make quite a team. 

Valentine’s Day (2010)

If you’ve ever experienced pure havoc on Valentine’s Day, you’re going to really identify with this holiday film treat.  Several single Hollywood couples make up and break up all within the 24 hours of Valentine’s Day.  With goofy mix-ups, romantic attractions, serious defiance and heartbreaking decisions, you’ll learn that finding love has a whole lot to do with both chance and destiny.  The all star cast in this movie alone is reason enough to watch with players including Julia Roberts, Jessica Biel, Queen Latifah, Jennifer Garner, Bradley Cooper, Kathy Bates, Jamie Foxx, Ashton Kutcher, Taylor Swift and several other heavy hitting Hollywood actors. 

Say Anything  (1989)

This movie might not take place on Valentine’s Day but I’ve never seen a better movie about finding love in the least expected places.  Led my John Cusack and Ione Skye, you can’t help but relate to this sweet high school story about an underdog, Lloyd Dobler who will do anything to connect with the class valedictorian, Diane Court.  The whole movie is reminiscent of teen years and inspires memories of our own high school romances.  Music fans will get an extra bonus from the “Say Anything” soundtrack which still remains famous today twenty years later.

Suzie & Rick Canale, Westwood, MA 

Suzie's favorite movie is Say Anything and she is a huge John Cusack fan. 

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.

Valentine’s Day is on a Saturday this year which means that Bostonians will be vamping up their plans to extend over an entire romantic weekend!  While couples scurry about trying to make their ideal holiday itinerary, some are at their wits ends as to where and what they should do?  Should we stay in the city or venture out towards other New England hot spots?  Should we book a fancy urban hotel sweet or take a drive to one of Massachusetts more secluded locales?  It’s a lot to decide since we all know whats riding on our decisions.  One bad move and we can seriously affect the romantic outcomes of Valentine’s Day so be careful.  Bostonians are lucky though to have so many options at their disposal.  Whether you’re interested in having a beachy, glitzy, snowy or laid back theme to your special weekend, this region has something to offer every sweetheart couple.

Ocean Getaway

Just because it’s cold outside, it doesn’t mean that we have to completely omit any ideas of visiting the beach.  New England has some of the most beautiful oceanfront property in the country and believe it or not, can still provide the perfect vacation venue year round, even during the winter.  North Shore destinations include several Gloucester and Rockport inns and hotels including Bass Rocks Ocean Inn and the Vista Motel which both provide breathtaking views of the Atlantic at affordable prices.  If you are traveling south, check out Wequassett Resort & Golf Club in Chatham or Seacrest Beach resort of North Falmouth, Cape Cod.  You won’t be disappointed in these luxurious getaway spots and will still be conveniently close to home!

Housebound Romance

Who says you have to leave the house to have a truly romantic weekend alone with your honey?  Forget about making the beds, washing the dishes and doing the laundry.  Just make a pact that you, as a couple, will spend the entire weekend at home with no one and nothing to take care of but each other.  Stock up on romantic movies, candles from anthropology or terrain and grab a whole bunch of local take out menus to order from.  Make sure you swap the everyday sheets for new silk blankets and stop by your florist for a fresh bouquet of flowers to add to the ambiance.  Pop the cork on a good bottle of wine and your good to go!

Ski Bunny Stay

The slopes may be calling you this Valentine’s Day and since we’re lucky to live in one of the greatest places in the country for skiing, you’re in luck!  Not only are our winter resorts home to stunning white powdered covered landscapes but also provide quite a spread for couples looking for a romantic retreat.  Sitting by stone fireplaces, sipping hot chocolate and even indulging in many of their five star spa packages are definitely things to put on your to-do lists.  Suggested ski resorts for Bostonians are Mt Washington in Bretton Woods, NH (great spa, buffet, pool and game room) and Stowe Mountain Resort in Stowe, Vermont (great accommodations and lots of fun things to do in town). 

Suzie and Rick Canale, Westwood MA

Suzie and Rick will be spending a romantic evening at their Westwood home on Valentine's Day.

Valentine’s Day brings out the largest played genre of music, love songs of course!  The best crooners of all time are played over the loud speakers, adding to the romanticism of the holiday celebrations.  Music is essential for a successful Valentine’s Day and may be so important in fact, that it may be useful to scout out your preferred selections prior to the big day!  For some, easy listening is the way to go and for others, a soulful ballad is a better fit.  Whatever your tastes may be, keep in mind there are love songs that have stood the test of time and have become classics for Valentine’s Day.  Here are the most played tunes for the month of February:

“Still Into You” by Paramore                          “Love Song” by Sara Bareilles

“Little Things” by One Direction                    “Baby Love” by The Supremes

“A Thousand Years” by Christna Perri          “Love Story” By Taylor Swift

“I See the Light” Tangled Soundtrack           “Part-Time Lover” by Stevie Wonder

“To Make You Feel My Love” by Adele        “Don’t Let Go” by En Vogue

If you’re a florist and looking for a Valentine’s Day/Flower themed love song, check out the lyrics to Jim Reeves’ “One Dozen Roses” that shares a sweet tune about placing his heart within a dozen roses for his sweetheart.  The words are beautiful and directly reflect the sentiment that most florists aim to please when making their Valentine’s Day arrangements for clients.  Check out these lyrics and see if it might be the perfect track to play in your stores this holiday!

Give me one dozen roses
, Put my heart in beside them
, Send them to the one I love.

She'll be glad to receive them, 
And I know she'll believe them
, There's something we've been talking of.

There may be orange blossoms later, 
I think that there will
, She's done something to me, 
And my heart won't keep still.

Give me one dozen roses, 
Put my heart in beside them
, Send them to the one I love.

There may be orange blossoms later, 
I think that there will, 
'Cos she's done something to me
, And my heart just won't keep still.

Give me one dozen roses
, Put my heart in beside them, 
Send them to the one I love
, Send them to the one I
, Send them to the one I love.

Suzie and Rick Canale,Westwood, MA

Although Suzie's husband Rick will be working late on Valentines Day, they will celebrate Valentines Day the following weel at the Capital Grille in Chestnut Hill.