Holiday Flower Gift Giving

 The big holiday celebrations are just around the corner now, and thoughts are turning to gifts, food, and decorating. Whether it is Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa; you don't have to get stuck in the same rut you may have been in for years when it comes to appropriate gift giving and decorating.

There are always those people you want to give a nice gift to, but just don't know what you should get. There are those you want to say thank you to for a great job done. Maybe you want to do something creatively different this year in your own decorating for the holidays.

There is a wonderful answer to these holiday dilemmas. Do it with flowers. That's right flowers. There are many beautiful varieties of blooms available during the fall and winter seasons. Tulips, Hyacinths, Poinsettias, and Narcissus are Christmas favorites. Send flowers to that someone you want to give a special gift to, and they will always remember your thoughtfulness.

There are so many ways to use them too. Place a live flower arrangement on the table for a centerpiece; nothing says elegance like live flowers. You don't have to confine yourself to the traditional red either. Think of a white and green centerpiece made up of white tulips and evergreen boughs for a beautiful winter tablescape. Or for a more unique look, try an arrangement using flowers and live succulents. It will last a long time if cared for properly. Use winter roses in your Christmas tree: Try pink rather than red. Put Paperwhite Narcissus in a blue vase on your Hanukah table. Use greenery in abundance for your Kwanzaa party. And, of course, you can place live poinsettias in the wreath hanging on your front door. Live flowers are especially lovely when used with tiny white lights. And you can't use too many of either during a holiday celebration, so get plenty of each. Flowers and candles make a serene setting in the bathroom. And, every work desk should have a plant or flowers on it all the time. It is cheery and brightens what might be a dark spot.

Greenery has been associated with the holidays dating back to the use of decorated trees, boughs of holly, fir garlands, and the list goes on. Only your imagination can hamper your creativity. With the use of colorful blooming bulbs, any greenery can be dressed up like a belle going to a ball. And of course there is always that sensuous perfume associated with some flowers. That mixed with the scent of evergreen will ensure everyone will remember your home for years to come.

When it comes to gift giving this holiday season don't settle for less. Try using colorful live flowers or greenery to lift one's holiday spirit, say thank you, or even as decoration in your own home!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/374438

How to Care for Fresh Flowers

Flowers are beautiful and professionally designed bouquets are especially attractive. Flowers can also carry huge sentimental meaning because they are often given as gifts from people close to us. So it's little wonder that we would want to extend the life of our flowers and enjoy their aesthetic and sentimental beauty for as long as possible.

With proper care and attention most flowers will last around 7 days with some varieties lasting for as long as 14 days. Here are some practical steps to help extend the life of your cut flowers.

Get flowers into water

After only a short time out of water flowers will begin to dehydrate. Therefore it is essential to get flowers into a vase or container of water as quickly as possible. When you first get the flowers home use warm water, not cold or hot, as this is the quickest way to rehydrate the flowers. Warm water will also promote opening of the blooms as most flowers are shipped with the blooms in a closed or tight stage.

Technically speaking the optimum temperature is 37.5C (99.5F), which is roughly body temperature. At this temperature air bubbles, which may have formed in the stem, tend to breakup. Also water that is warmer than the surrounding air is more readily taken up by the flowers.

Change the water regularly

Try to change the water every two days. The flowers should be well hydrated by now so you can use cold water instead of warm. This helps keep the flowers cool which is a key part of keeping flowers in good condition.

Use flower preservatives

Each consignment of Affinity Flowers comes with a sachet of flower preservative. Flower preservative contains two main components, carbohydrates and anti-bacterial additives.

The carbohydrates act as food which helps to sustain the flowers. The carbohydrates will also stimulate flower heads to open quicker. This is handy when you're trying to open flowers that usually ship with tight blooms like lilies.

The bactericide component inhibits bacteria developing in the water. Bacteria laden water will cause flowers to deteriorate quicker. Bacteria is also a problem because it can block flower stems and hinder the uptake of water. If left long enough the bacteria will also discolour the vase water and produce an unpleasant odour.

Simply empty the contents of the flower preservative sachet into the vase water.

If you don't have flower preservative you could add 1-2 drops of bleach to the water instead. The bleach will act as an anti-bacterial just like the additives in commercial flower preservatives.

Remove leaves that will be under water

This is important as leaves that are below the waterline will deteriorate quickly and become a breeding ground for bacteria. If you have a professionally arranged bouquet you'll find that the leaves have already been removed by the florist. But flowers bought loose or unarranged might still have leaves low on the stem.

Trim the stems

Take a pair of scissors or a sharp knife and trim 2-3cm (1 inch) from the bottom of the stem. Try not to crush the stem while you're doing this. Cut the stem on an angle to increase the surface area exposed to the water. Cutting on an angle also stops the stem sitting flat on the bottom of the vase and blocking water uptake. Once cut immediately place the flowers into water.

Water is sucked up the stem like a straw. If there is anything blocking the straw then it will impede water flow to the head. Over time the end of a stem can become blocked with impurities from the water and bacteria. Also, if a flower has been out of water for any period of time, air will be drawn into the stem which will block its ability to draw water.

Some florists recommend cutting the stems underwater which prevents air being drawn up the stem.

Re-cut stems every two days or when you change the water.

Keep flowers cool

Flowers should be kept in cool conditions. Keep them away from direct sunlight, heaters, lamps and other heat sources. Also try not to leave flowers in a hot vehicle when transporting them. This is why specialist flower delivery couriers have chilled storage on-board their vehicles.

Each variety has its own optimal holding temperature but the ideal temperature for most flowers is a chilly 4-5C (39-41F), about the temperature inside your refrigerator. Obviously these aren't ideal temperatures for people but if you really wanted to extend the life of your flowers you could place them in the refrigerator overnight or if you were going to be away for an extended period.

Keep flowers away from fruit

Fruit and vegetables produce ethylene gas which is detrimental to flowers. Carnations and Delphiniums are particularly susceptible. Try to keep flowers away from fruit and vegetables to keep them in good shape.

Similarly domestic gas is also damaging to flowers. There is a story of a flower grower who found it difficult to keep cut flowers on his farm. He suspected his gas supply may have been the cause and a check by a specialist confirmed he had a gas leak on his property.

Tips to Follow When Sending Sympathy Flowers

Losing a loved is really hard and nothing can make up for it. However, support and sympathy from various people makes the family members of the deceased feel a little better. Sending flowers is a suitable option for showing one's sympathy for the close family members of the deceased. That is why people all over the world send sympathy flowers to bereaved family members whenever they hear about the death of someone they knew. However, people also often get confused when sending sympathy flowers as they do not know the etiquette regarding sympathy flowers. As a result, they sometimes make mistakes when sending flowers on this occasion. Following are some tips that should be followed when sending sympathy flowers.

Firstly, the appropriate flowers and colors should be selected. In most of the world, there is no hard and fast rule regarding suitability of different flowers and colors for expressing sympathy. Most of the flowers can be used for the purpose. One can select the deceased's favorite flowers for expressing sympathy or go by the meaning of different flowers. However, different cultures deem different flowers and colors appropriate for expressing sympathy. For example, only white flowers are appropriate for this occasion in Japan. Religion also plays a major role regarding the selection of sympathy and funeral flowers. Thus, it's best to ask the florist if one is confused.

Secondly, the appropriate size and type of the flower arrangement should be chosen. Florists have wreaths, bouquets, casket sprays and inside pieces for funerals. The choice of the size and type of the flower arrangements depends on the sender's closeness with the recipient. If the deceased was close to the sender then big and rich looking arrangements like casket sprays should be given. Otherwise, a small bouquet or flower basket will be sufficient.

Thirdly, a card with a sympathy message should be sent along with the flowers. The message should be written appropriately. Many people find it difficult to put their feelings in writing at times like these. However, all that is needed is a short message expressing sympathy and offering comfort. Such messages are greatly appreciated by the family of deceased in these hard times. If there is still a problem in writing such a message, then a card with a message already printed should be chosen.

Fourthly, the place to send the flowers should be decided. The flowers can be either sent to the funeral homes or to the residence of the person, who has died. Some cultures prohibit sending sympathy flowers to homes of the deceased people since it is seen as a bad omen. Thus, one should take the culture of the deceased into account when deciding where the flowers are to be sent. Closeness to the deceased also matters when determining where to send the flowers. Close people often send flowers to the residence of the deceased.

Finally, sending the flowers at an appropriate time is important. Sympathy flowers should be ideally sent at funeral homes before the first visitation hours. If they cannot be sent at that time then they should be sent before any additional visitation hours. Rushing the flowers to the graveyard or funeral home when the funeral services are taking place is considered inappropriate as it can disturb the ceremony. If the flowers cannot be sent on the day of the funeral then should be sent within one week.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7037784

How to Select Valentine’s Flowers Like a Champ

Ah, Valentine’s Day. The holiday always falls on the 14th of February, but still — somehow — seems to come out of nowhere. Don’t get caught off guard and end up scrambling to find a token of your affection. Flowers are the perfect gift.

Your sweetheart will appreciate and remember having received your Valentine’s Day flowers — especially if they’ve never received a floral delivery before. You will receive extra bonus points if your beautiful floral gift arrives in front of your sweetheart’s coworkers. Your love will be the topic of conversation for all of the right reasons, and you will be so happy you sent those flowers.

With so many sources available for purchasing flowers, it can be overwhelming to make the right decision. My favorite place to buy flowers is from a local professional florist.

What’s the benefit? First, by going in person, you’ll have the opportunity to chat with a sales person, designer or possibly the shop owner — any of whom can offer advice on the latest trends, the different meanings of flowers, etc.  You’ll have the chance to see the types of flowers they carry, the design styles they create, the green and blooming plants offered, and perhaps some extra little gifts that can enhance your order. 

Ask what they’ll have specially designed for Valentine’s Day, perhaps in a keepsake or themed vase or container. If your sweetheart has a favorite flower, ask about its seasonality and if it can be included. Don’t forget: plants also make great gifts. 

Be sure you leave yourself plenty of time to order and be prepared with the recipient’s information for delivery. If your flowers (or plant) are headed to the office, include the business name, any department or floor information, phone contact, and if they only work until a specific time. Every florist wants you to have a fabulous floral experience; providing the correct contact information makes it a snap.

While most flower shops have a website to check out as well, you just might enjoy a few minutes of calm perusing the flower shop. Enjoy the opportunity to surround yourself with beautiful flowers and plants.

When you’re ready, place your flower order in person, on the phone or their website with complete confidence. February 14th is coming. Be fearless and make it fabulous.

Tips to Follow When Sending Sympathy Flowers

Losing a loved is really hard and nothing can make up for it. However, support and sympathy from various people makes the family members of the deceased feel a little better. Sending flowers is a suitable option for showing one's sympathy for the close family members of the deceased. That is why people all over the world send sympathy flowers to bereaved family members whenever they hear about the death of someone they knew. However, people also often get confused when sending sympathy flowers as they do not know the etiquettes regarding sympathy flowers. As a result, they sometimes make mistakes when sending flowers on this occasion. Following are some tips that should be followed when sending sympathy flowers.

Firstly, the appropriate flowers and colors should be selected. In most of the world, there is no hard and fast rule regarding suitability of different flowers and colors for expressing sympathy. Most of the flowers can be used for the purpose. One can select the deceased's favorite flowers for expressing sympathy or go by the meaning of different flowers. However, different cultures deem different flowers and colors appropriate for expressing sympathy. For example, only white flowers are appropriate for this occasion in Japan. Religion also plays a major role regarding the selection of sympathy and funeral flowers. Thus, it's best to ask the florist if one is confused.

Secondly, the appropriate size and type of the flower arrangement should be chosen. Florists have wreaths, bouquets, casket sprays and inside pieces for funerals. The choice of the size and type of the flower arrangements depends on the sender's closeness with the recipient. If the deceased was close to the sender then big and rich looking arrangements like casket sprays should be given. Otherwise, a small bouquet or flower basket will be sufficient.

Thirdly, a card with a sympathy message should be sent along with the flowers. The message should be written appropriately. Many people find it difficult to put their feelings in writing at times like these. However, all that is needed is a short message expressing sympathy and offering comfort. Such messages are greatly appreciated by the family of deceased in these hard times. If there is still a problem in writing such a message, then a card with a message already printed should be chosen.

Fourthly, the place to send the flowers should be decided. The flowers can be either sent to the funeral homes or to the residence of the person, who has died. Some cultures prohibit sending sympathy flowers to homes of the deceased people since it is seen as a bad omen. Thus, one should take the culture of the deceased into account when deciding where the flowers are to be sent. Closeness to the deceased also matters when determining where to send the flowers. Close people often send flowers to the residence of the deceased.

Finally, sending the flowers at an appropriate time is important. Sympathy flowers should be ideally sent at funeral homes before the first visitation hours. If they cannot be sent at that time then they should be sent before any additional visitation hours. Rushing the flowers to the graveyard or funeral home when the funeral services are taking place is considered inappropriate as it can disturb the ceremony. If the flowers cannot be sent on the day of the funeral then should be sent within one week.

Dish Gardens - Bringing Nature Into Limited Spaces

 

If you live in a high rise apartment or a condo unit where there's limited space, there's no reason why you can't have a garden around you. There's nothing as refreshing as the sight of live plants and new trend that's gaining some popularity among those living in restricted spaces is container gardening.
The best thing about container gardening is the control you have in your design choices. Containers come in various types - you can use small, shallow dishes or terra cotta pots, or if your space allows, empty barrels, old copper vats and crates are great for a rustic feel.

Selecting plants for your container depends on what region of the country you live in. As a general rule, go for slow growing plants that don't need frequent repotting. Perennials are a great choice, especially the woody types. They're hardier, can withstand temperature changes, and are easier to maintain and control.

Herbs are also a good option for your container gardens. You can regularly prune them as you use them and they have beautiful foliage. Most of them also fill the air with their wonderful scents and aroma.

You can also choose to work with several different-sized small containers and create a display of dish gardens in a patio or deck corner. This is a great idea especially for small plants like herbs and cacti. There are beautiful flowering varieties of cacti that come in such attractive colors. They're very easy to grow and demand very little attention and maintenance. They're perfect for someone who's always on the go and doesn't have all the time to spend on plant upkeep.

Whatever type or size of space you have, there's always the possibility of bringing the richness and beauty of nature into it. Container gardens are there to remind us of the splendor that surrounds us all at the outside.

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DIAMOND ANNIVERSARY

Lasting arrangement: Coggins Flowers and Gifts marks 60 years

Jim Coggins, left, his daughter Lori and grand-daughter Karlee, 5, at Coggins Flowers and Gifts on North Church Street in Spartanburg.
TIM KIMZEY/tim.kimzey@shj.com

By Trevor Anderson
trevor.anderson@shj.com

Published: Sunday, February 7, 2016 at 6:15 a.m.

Last Modified: Friday, February 5, 2016 at 3:17 p.m.

The beautiful arrangements in the back of Jim Coggins’ floral shop remind him that growing a small business requires patience, hard work and attention to detail.

“It’s just what you’ve got to do if you want to build something that’s going to last,” said Coggins, owner of Coggins Flowers and Gifts at 800 N. Church St. near Spartanburg Medical Center.

This year, the store will celebrate its 60th anniversary.

Coggins’ parents, the late Helen and Walter Coggins, opened the flower store behind a barber shop on North Church Street in 1956, the same year Coggins was born. The idea grew out of his mother's passion for arranging roses grown in her own garden. Both of his parents went on to study design at Finley’s Floral School in Greenville.

Coggins said he started working in the shop when he turned 5. He swept the floors and watched his parents create beautiful bouquets.

Now, he has brought his son, Brad, and daughter, Lori, into the fold. His wife, Ginger, also contributes at the shop. And his granddaughter, Karlee, who is 5, has just started to show an interest, giving Coggins hope that the store might continue to a fourth generation.

“I’ve been reading about some local businesses turning 50,” Coggins said. “I was thinking, we’ve got them beat by 10 years. … It’s pretty rare in the flower business to find a shop that has been around that long and still owned by the same family.”

When Coggins was still a child, his parents moved their business to a former grocery store closer to the hospital.

In 1969, the shop moved across the street into a new structure that was built on the site of a former gas station at 800 N. Church St. It has remained there for the past 44 years.

Coggins was able to salvage the business’s old sign, which now hangs inside the store, from the grocery store before it was demolished.

Coggins took over the reins of the business in 1981. The senior Coggins, who also worked part-time as a night watchman, died in 1992.

Helen Coggins continued to help out at the shop on holidays until her death in 2011. She was 92. Her last day at the shop was on Valentine's Day.

Coggins said his parents would be happy to see the business thriving.

“It’s tough,” he said. “You have to work long hours and stay focused. … It means a lot to me that we are turning 60. I’m glad I can have the opportunity, because you just don’t see that anymore.”

Coggins said the Great Recession hit his business hard between 2008 and 2010. In 2011, sales began to bounce back and have continued to grow every year.

He credits increased marketing efforts and a commitment to quality products and service for the comeback.

“Making sure we do the right thing,” he said. “That has been very important.”

Lori Coggins said she is optimistic about the future of the business.

“Some days are tougher than other,” she said. “Overall, it has been a great experience to work alongside my dad and learn from him, to work together as a family.”

Thank you, Trevor Anderson for writing such a nice story about our 60 years in business. We look forward to many more years.

  http://www.goupstate.com/article/20160207/ARTICLES/160209774/1086?p=1&tc=pg

Choose The Right Color Flowers for Mother's Day

Everyone knows that flowers are one of the best gifts for mothers. Every mother appreciates a fresh bouquet that has been lovingly selected just for her. But before you send Mothers Day flowers, be sure that you are choosing some that are the best color to fit her unique personality. When you pick out flowers for her, you may think that knowing her favorite kind is all that matters; the color isn't really important as long as the flowers are pretty, right?
Wrong. The color can make a huge difference in how much she really likes the flowers. Have you ever heard of color psychology? It refers to the effect of color on human behaviors and emotions. Different feelings and associations come to mind when we see different colors. These emotions and thoughts can vary with the times and cultures of different civilizations, but no one can dispute the power of color when it comes to our subconscious mind.
Before you send Mothers Day flowers, think about her unique personality and the qualities you value the most about her. Then consider the following characteristics of colors:

• Yellow -- Yellow is a cheerful color that makes us feel happiness and joy, as well as a color that many people associate with wealth because gold is so valuable. But be careful! When some people see yellow, they may think of cowards and liars.
• Pink -- Pink is the universal color of peace and unconditional love. Seeing it can invoke feelings of affection and increased sensitivity to others. These associations make pink a wonderful color to choose for her flowers because it is representative of the nurturing instinct that all mothers naturally have.
• White -- Most people consider white to be the color that symbolizes sacred concepts like holiness, reverence, and purity. They think that white is connected to cleanliness, as well. Also, white is the color that represents peace, as in "raising the white flag" to signal that the fighting is over and that peace should be restored.
• Red -- Red is a color that is symbolic of many ideas. The most common concepts that accompany red are highly emotional rather than intellectual, such as passion and true love. But don't be too hasty in selecting red flowers; a lot of people think of anger or revenge when they see the color red.
• Purple -- Purple is often identified with nobility and style. It is the color of royalty, signifying kings and queens. If she is the queen of your heart, maybe purple flowers would be best for her.

If you take the time to put a little extra thought into it, you can send Mothers Day flowers that are the ideal color for her. Consider her unique personality as you ponder the symbolism of the different colors. She will be thrilled that you were so considerate and thoughtful in the selection of her gift, and she will know just how important she is in your life.

Let one of our staff at Coggins Flowers and Gifts help you put together the perfect arrangement. 

Easter Flowers - Symbolic of Renewal and Spring

There are particular sorts of blooms that are ordinarily utilized as a part of observing Easter, which is by a long shot the most heavenly Christian occasion; they are given the name of Easter blossoms. These blooms are colorful, and they symbolize both the Resurrection and reestablishment connected with Easter. They are the perfect indications of both Easter and spring. Blossoms that are regularly utilized for Easter time incorporate lilies, hyacinths, azaleas, tulips, daffodils, and narcissus blooms.

White lilies are the most widely recognized and extraordinary Easter blossoms, and they are commonly used to topping places of love amid the period paving the way to Easter. These blooms are initially from Japan, and individuals in the US began developing them amid World War II. Lilies that are white now be indications of the virtue and restoration that Easter is known for, notwithstanding the Resurrection of Christ. The bloom's petals have the state of trumpets, which symbolize the trumpet utilized by God to get back to for Jesus to come after His demise. It is outstanding that the development of white lilies is constrained in nurseries particularly for Easter.

Hyacinths are blooms that are customarily utilized for Easter blossom plans. They come in numerous grouped pastel hues that are perfect for Easter, including blue, purple, and pink. They are likewise accessible in white. Hyacinths can grow up to twelve inches in length.

Azaleas are regularly given as blessings to the leader at Easter suppers. They develop regularly amid the Easter season, and they arrive in a wide show of exquisite hues including white, orange, pink, and red. These blooms are seen as indications of Christ's Resurrection, and in addition of recharging and well wishes.

Tulips are likewise conventional Easter blooms. These ravishing blooms are indications of spring's feeling of recharging and of perfect adoration. They are basic parts of Easter bloom courses of action and are accessible in more than 150 sorts. They additionally arrive in a wide mixture of hues.

Stunning yellow Easter blossoms that have the state of trumpets are known as daffodils. They symbolize unceasing life, restoration, and kinship's. With respect to, is held that they develop from knobs that seem to be dead, in this manner showcasing the blossoms as living delineations of restoration and resurrection. Furthermore, it is recommended that these blossoms first developed amid the Resurrection of Christ. Daffodils are the essential Easter blossoms utilized for Easter decorative arrangements.

The Easter blooms said above can all be found at your Coggins Flowers and Gifts with more than 50 years of experience we look forward to helping you pick the perfect flower arrangement.

Numerous stunning Easter blooms can be observed that symbolize the reestablishment of Easter and spring. Whether utilized for ornamental purposes or given to friends and family, lilies, hyacinths, azaleas, tulips, daffodils, and narcissus blooms all are indications of the excellence and sacredness that describe Easter.

Thanksgiving Flowers - An Inspired Addition to Your Home

Thanksgiving Flowers - An Inspired Addition to Your Home

Why send Thanksgiving blossoms? Thanksgiving is an occasion with a long history in North America. It is frequently connected with the Pilgrims of Massachusetts, however some claim the first Thanksgiving really hung on this mainland occurred in 1578 in Newfoundland, when English traveler Martin Frobisher held a service to express appreciation for having survived his fizzled endeavor at discovering a northern entry to the Orient. After this first festival, different varieties on Thanksgiving happened in districts crosswise over North America. Some were events for expressing appreciation, while others owed their roots to the harvest celebrations that were regular in Europe at the time. By the late 1800s, Thanksgiving was cherished as a national occasion in both Canada and the United States.

For most individuals nourishment is the essential center of this occasion. Indeed, the symbolism of Thanksgiving is loaded with nature's abundance - gourds and squash, turkey and cranberries. Those pictures regularly mean your home's adornment as centerpieces and other ornamental stresses. Little gourds and pumpkins are frequently used to embellish the table. Folks of youthful youngsters might likewise include an extraordinary specialty made at school. Oak seeds and leaves are additionally regular trimmings. Anyway blooms are frequently neglected as embellishing components for the harvest table. Blossoms are related nearly with different occasions - think about the lily at Easter or the poinsettia at Christmas - yet the idea of Thanksgiving blooms is not as ordinary.

The distinctive palette of shades that develops in fall is perfect for a decorative design blessing. Also there is no compelling reason to restrain yourself to a centerpiece. Blossom plans outside and in the basic territories of your home include an inviting touch that your visitors will unquestionably acknowledge on any day of the year.

Thanksgiving blossoms, or crisp fall blooms, come in numerous mixtures and colors, giving practically boundless choices to courses of action. The combo of profound fall reds, oranges and yellows can be found in customary Thanksgiving blossoms, in the same way as chrysanthemums, sunflowers and gerberas. Other Thanksgiving blooms incorporate carnations, solidago, monte club and marigolds. Be that as it may you are not limited to Thanksgiving blooms just. Roses and lilies are additionally accessible in fall shades and include a touch of excellent magnificence to any game plan. What's more keep in mind to accentuate your Thanksgiving blossoms with other occasion touches - wheat, oak seeds, oak leaves, little gourds, corn cobs or even a pumpkin vase.

When choosing Thanksgiving flowers, keep these other tips in mind:

• You should use a round centerpiece for a round table and a long centerpiece for a rectangular table.

• Add candles to your centerpiece to soften the mood.

• If you have a large table, use a few small arrangements to complement the main centerpiece.

• Colorful fall leaves can also complement the main centerpiece. Select leaves in a variety of colors and shapes. Oak and maple have a distinct appearance often associated with the season.

• Many florists offer stunning wreaths made of Thanksgiving flowers and other fall accents for delivery. A wreath on your door provides a warm welcome to your home.

And, instead of the usual bottle of wine, try Thanksgiving flowers or baskets as a hostess gift. Whether it consists of a bouquet in a traditional vase, a glass hurricane and candle, or a cascading cornucopia, a beautiful arrangement in fall colors will be received with great thanks.

 

Valentine's Day Flowers

Just like people, flowers come in hundreds of shapes and sizes. When it comes to Valentine's Day gifts, carefully selecting the flower varieties and colors you send will result in a thoughtful, customized gift your sweetheart will treasure. The first step is to consider your sweetheart's preferences:

• What colors does he or she like? Men respond well to vivid, crisp colors such as red, orange, purple and blue. Women tend to relish pastel tones of pinks, peaches and lavenders.
• Does she have any favorite flowers? What are his hobbies? Your florist can create arrangements that revolve around your sweetheart's favorite hobby, sport or pastime.

Ask yourself what message you want to convey. Consult with your local florist, who can explain the assortment of possibilities available.

To get the best selection and ensure prompt delivery, call your us the week before Valentine's Day. When you call, have the necessary information handy: the recipient's name, address, phone number, what you want to send and how you want to be billed.