Double Bling and Wedding Bells

Last fall, I posted about my son's engagement to his lovely fiance, Danielle. They're settling in to their 'engagement' stage of their relationship. I appreciate the time they are taking to do things 'their way'.

Like many brides, Danielle is working her way through nursing school. She's in school full time and working full time, too. Honestly, I don't know how she's doing it. But she is.. and is always just a sweet bubble of sunshine. She is showing extreme patience in setting their wedding date, because another goal they have as a couple is to purchase a home. They've found the perfect 'nest' and are patiently awaiting a complete stranger's approval on them making it their own. Once they check that off their 'to-do list' I think they can select their big day.

As if that isn't exciting enough, last night, my darling daughter Jen and her boyfriend of 6 years JC, got engaged! Late last week, JC happened to call me to see if Jen had gotten home yet, I wasn't sure because I was working late because of Derby and Mother's Day. Little did I know, he just happened to stop by our house to speak to my husband about marrying Jen. My husband said he'd planned to ask Jen next week while they celebrate their six years together. Needless, that ring an a guy's possession is very hard to contain and rather than waiting- he popped the question just a bit early.

To some couples, six years is indeed a long time, but to them and us, their families, it's even more than that. For a good majority of their relationship.. they have been apart. A few months after they started dating, JC left for 4 years in the ARMY. Yes, she knew he'd signed up, and she was still willing to be adventurous, patient, supportive and encouraging while he was gone. Even during a deployment to Kuwait for over one year. They got to spend one prom together, her junior. She spent three years of college on her own. In return, he supported and encouraged her, too. She has just finished her senior year of college. Is she done? Not quite. She changed her major going into her Junior year. So, that meant she'd be a semester off on graduating because she now has student teaching to add to the list.

Now, at the end of this summer, Jen is the one leaving town for a while. She'll be going to Germany to teach her major- English, at, of all places- a US ARMY base. So needless to say, I think they have to jump on the wedding planning. She won't return until December...so, I think we'll definitely have double bling and lots of wedding bells coming this Spring.

In the mean time.. I hope she'll breathe for a while, enjoy the engagement bliss and soak in her last summer of being single.
[the photo posted, is one of my very favorites.. after over a year's deployment to Kuwait, Jen and JC were reunited. I think the photo says it all for patience and love.]

Ready to lose my marbles..and a Royal Wedding

First. I have been trying to get back on this blog so I could post and for the life of me, I could not get back in. So again, I've had to reset the password. Now, that was enough time given to the hacker creep who is still invading my time. Can't have any more.

On to the fun business.. A Royal Wedding.
I have a floral friend, Jodi Duncan, who is lucky enough to be in London right now and will be able to witness the fun and royal frolicking that will take place for Kate and William. I am so green- [a lovely chartreuse shade] with envy. I and several hundred other floral friend have been following her posts while she's been in not only London, but also Scotland and Paris. Why is she traveling? ? because of flowers.

She was invited to design some florals for an amazing floral industry magazine- Fusion. It is a european magazine [aka.floral bible] within our industry with lots of really beautiful photos- kind of a picture bible but for adults not kids. Because once we open this, we're busy looking at the photos and eventually we do get back to reading what it's all about. Just in the mean time, we're mesmerized by the bright colors and details. Anyhoo, Miss Jodi was invited to do a photo shoot for the magazine, and she just happens to be in London for the nuptials. Lucky Gal!!

She also posted a brief article from people.com about the florals being designed by the Middleton's family florist- Yay Middleton family! you have a regular florist and don't use a phone book to find someone to do Kate's wedding!!Kudos- AND- Kate is using the 'Language of Flowers' as an additional guide for selecting her blossoms. I've just snagged a snippet of the article she posted below...

"The symbolism means a lot to [Kate] and the sourcing has been hugely important," says Connolly. He describes Middleton, who has been very involved in the designs, as a "dream client" and "like few other brides I've ever met."

Connolly (who will be working with the Middleton's Bucklebury family florist Emma Sampson on the event) also reveals that the trees lining the aisle at the abbey will be six English Field Maples and two Hornbeams.

Some Surprises...But he remains tight-lipped on the bridal bouquet which, traditionally, features all-white blooms.

The flowers planned for the abbey decorations may provide some clues, though. Among the varieties: Azaleas, the Chinese symbol of femininity, lilacs, which represent first love, rhododendron and wisteria.

"One of the things that has been very important to Catherine is the meanings of flowers and the language of flowers," says Connolly. "We've tried, especially in the wedding bouquets, to make beautiful stories." ....

I think my invitation to this lovely event is stuck in the mail. Imagine that! Thanks to the internet I and everyone else can get a front row seat. And now you know.

Oh, thank Goodness!!!

I have not been able to blog for a while as you can see by the date of the last posting. Why? My account was hacked. It has taken quite a while to get back in to some of my accounts and this was one. It has wigged me out knowing that someone has access to my personal emails. Not that I have anything to really worry about, but it's just the point. I can't get back into my account because the creepers changed my password and they locked me out. So, now I have a new personal email and password.

My darling niece and Goddaughter Alexis, is getting married this summer and we are going to Wisconsin to design her wedding. We're super excited and so is she. Unfortunately, some of the emails we exchanged are now in the hands of the hacker. So, now she has to re email me all of the pics she likes and it's just a pain.


It's always fun creating a wedding, but this one will be exceptionally fun, because it is the first of my nieces on my side of the family to get married. The four girls are all close in age. Alexis and Rebecca 26 and 25--- both turning 26 and 27 the first week of April... and Jennifer and Elaina are 22. They have lots in common, yet each is so different. But all of them are crazy fun, love to dance and LOVE Fashion especially shoes. These are the shoes and 'fascinator' Elaina will be wearing as Maid of Honor.



A real party is in the works for July. And the count down begins April 1.

VD. It's coming whether you like it or not.

VD. Valentine's Day....aka "A made-up florist's holiday"

Okay, I've had enough. This holiday has been around for a while and long enough for EVERYONE to know this isn't true. Flowers, although one of my favorite things- are not the only thing going on for Valentine's Day. And by the way, I'm keeping count of how many people call and pronounce it ValenTIME's Day. Just sayin-

I'm just going for the love factor and not even talking about flowers on this one. I'm not pushing anything other than LOVE. My most significant and memorable Valentine's Day was at the age of 15. I was a freshman in high school and totally smitten with my boyfriend, now husband. Yes, we've been together since we were 15!

Every high schooler's dread- what to do for Valentine's Day. You don't want to do too much but you don't want to look like you didn't make any effort either. I cannot even remember what I gave him- but I do remember, and still have, the hand written valentine letter he gave me. Complete with this little face he draws [his trademark]

I was head over heels for him, before I'd even met him -[I'd seen his photo.]...but that's another story. My point is- no matter what you purchase - give it from the heart. Even if it's a handwritten note or card- those are truly the very best gifts anyway especially if accompanied by flowers- Oops! Think about what you want to say. You might not think it's a big deal- but it is. Because they, like me, might really keep it forever... and forever is a LONG time.

Have a great Valentine's Day.

Top 10 Reasons...

With Valentine's Day around the corner...along with just every day living and no better reason for giving flowers than...Just Because... I am posting the -Top Ten Reasons to Order from a "Real" Local Florist

1. Ensure Maximum Value--We want you to get the most bang for the buck- we really do.
Save on extra service fees by cutting out the middleman.

2. Speak Directly To The Florist Who Is Filling Your Order- a HUGE benefit. They know what's actually in stock in their shop. You don't have to settle for the basics on a website.
Find out what flowers and plants are in stock, what looks particularly good, or whether any blooming plants may be planted outdoors later.
Have a custom design created to your specifications...the BEST reason. Let a talented florist be creative.

3. Communicate Special Requests Directly
Does the recipient have any favorite flowers? Any dislikes?
Should the recipient be called prior to delivery?
Is the recipient hard of hearing, or slow answering the door?
Is one entrance better than another?

4. Select Additional Gift Items
Many flower shops also carry unique gift lines, such as candy, plush animals or candles, which can be added to your order or sent independently.

5. Get Same-Day Delivery - If Possible
By phoning the local florist directly, find out if same-day delivery is possible. Calling early improves the chances.

6. Pay Accurate and Appropriate Delivery Charges - No More, No Less
Pay the right local delivery fee without having it deducted from the value of your order.***If for no other reason, this is the biggest reason- Wire orders with the 1-800 companies add a service fee/charge which most customers think is the delivery charge- it isn't. This service fee is kept by the 1-800 company. YOUR delivery fee comes out of the amount you thought was going towards the number listed for the flowers.
A delivery to a location close to the shop may not cost as much as one farther away. Only the local florist knows.
Some locations, such as gated communities or certain businesses may require an additional charge.

7. Familiarity With Local Delivery Regulations
Hospitals, funeral homes, schools and businesses may have delivery cut-off times or size limitations.
Hospitals in particular often limit the size, quantity, or types of balloons that can be delivered.

8. Familiarity With Local Funeral Customs
In some areas a standing spray of flowers is customary, while in others a basket of flowers is most appropriate.
In smaller towns, a local florist may know what has already been ordered or sent to the funeral, and can then help you choose something different.

9. Establish A Relationship With The Flower Shop For Future Orders- We definitely have many 'former wire' clients who 'found' us and now call us direct to place an order, get personalized service and more value for their money.
Join a mailing list for email newsletters or seasonal offers.
Many shops offer a reminder service for sending flowers at special occasions.

Only nine reasons, you ask? The tenth is simple and universal:
10. Everyone Loves To Receive Flowers!

Research conducted by Rutgers University and the Society of American Florists indicates that flowers have an immediate impact on the happiness of the recipient, have a long-term positive effect on people's moods, and increase the connections among family and friends. Not only that, but a study by researchers at Texas A & M University shows that flowers and plants improve productivity, innovation, and creativity in the workplace.


I happened to run across the basics of this Top 10 list on the web. I felt it was important to add my two-cents [of course] and hope you'll spread the word the next time you want to send flowers across the country or world.

Where have I been???

Imagine... Where have I been? Where am I going?
It is always my goal to be on top of things. To keep things under control. I like to lead not follow. I'd rather do things myself, than 'patiently' wait for someone to do something for me. If back in college, I would not do well on a group project. Especially if I know my grade depends on the contribution of other's.

Unfortunately, I have not been on top of blogging. I know it. Honestly, I thought I had blogged in December, but it's obvious I didn't. So, I stopped to think what the heck has kept me from blogging? Where have I been? How did I miss my goal of being on top of things? Let's see.. I was busy living things I imagined.

November and December are a blur to me. Truly. A. Blur!! We were blessed to be busy. Weddings, funerals, parties, and everything in between. My very handsome son got engaged to a sweet, smart 'Girlie Girl.' I'm so excited for them and look forward to Danielle becoming part of our family. I get to watch them as they plan their 'perfect day' with a date sometime next year.

And then, my birthday..un-eventful. ..which works for me.

Our 'Grace Darling' coming home from a semester in Italy..[Jessica and I secretly jealous] oh, the adventures we know she had.

My ever-so-lucky-daughter celebrating her birthday in Vegas. Will this be an annual event?? Vegas? And poof!! It's Christmas. Where did the time go?

Then a New Year. 2011. In a New Home. My husband and I found 'the house' and said, "be brave! Let's do it!" and we did. We spent the New Year in a new home. Strange, but a good strange. It's been a good adventure so far.

So, what does this have to do with my photo 'Imagine'? All of us imagined all of these things. An engagement. Traveling abroad. Celebrating a birthday with friends. Winning big. A dream home.

This year, I imagine myself on top of the blogging. I imagine gathering just the right happy people working together at Lavender Hill. Open, creative, supportive, fun, artistic people- working together on beautiful flowers for everyone's reason for needing them. I imagine working with some great photographers, getting me great shots from some really great weddings we have on our books. I imagine great parties for Derby. I also imagine an over the top wedding for my beautiful niece. She will start my month of July. My whole family together celebrating her big day AND my son's 25th birthday.

Also in July, I will find myself, not just Imagine myself, on a stage in San Francisco. Getting inducted into the American Institute of Floral Designers. It will be real. It will be official. I will get that gold pin and those four letters AIFD after my name. Something I have imagined for quite a while. I am so excited.

So, where have I been? It doesn't matter. As long as I'm here, living in the present. Because being in the present, truly is a Gift.

Halloween and Weddings...

A strange combination...Halloween and Weddings. But, kind of cool to me.

My parents would have actually been celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary this Halloween. Unfortunately, both of them have passed away, but I still love looking at the few wedding photos I have of their day.

One in particular always captured my attention. It was a great photo taken outside the church. Off to one side of the photo were two kids in their vintage masked halloween costumes. I always wondered who they were.

Why would they hang outside the church? What kid would hang outside a church? I mean really. And then I stopped thinking that after it occurred to me- I was that kid. I mean- not them.

I was that kid that hung outside the Greek Orthodox church down the street from my house. Patiently waiting on my pink bike with the streamers hanging from my handle bars. If there was a wedding going on, I was there. I loved it. Back in the day.. to me, all of the brides looked like Pricilla Presley. Giant dark hair. Huge dresses. Big doe eyes with black eye liner. I thought they were beautiful!!!

The big, black Cadillac covered with handmade Kleenex flowers taped to it. This oh-so-fancy, big car, waiting for this special Girl. I learned to watch the man in the black suit with the hat who hung out by the big black car. The Driver! He was my cue for when those doors would fly open and all those people would pour out. But, who was SHE? And the Elvis-like man. To me they were this beautiful, mysterious couple. And what was more mysterious to me was- the church.

I loved getting a glimpse of the inside of this beautiful, gold church. PLueeeease open the doors wider! And while you're at it, get out of the way, so I can see in.

Adorned was this church with these unusual paintings of people. Saints? Who were they? I was Catholic. I always thought my church was so beautiful... and it was. Our's had beautiful marble statues and our patron saint's was especially ginormous to me. ..but this fancy church! One day I'm going to find a reason to get inside it. But how???

Fast forward to my profession and ...Voila!! I'm in!!! I AM a Florist !!!! Big bouffant hair, the giant dress, the big, dark eyed bride. Yes!! I am doing my neighbor's wedding. In this church. The mystery is revealed. And it was as magnificent as I had always imagined it would be.

So... to the little kids outside my parent's church on their wedding day- I totally get it.

The Vows...

I must say, we've been really busy this past month. Crazy busy!

I'm beyond grateful for the opportunities to design the florals for so many of the recent occasions. Let's see.... We've done flowers for the party celebrating the 'Water Taxi' that will now be available to take Cardinal Fans to the new YUM! Center. For those readers not in the area, just Google- YUM! Center and you'll be filled in. The Cardinal Fans are the sports maniacs from the University of Louisville. I say maniacs, lovingly. Not originally being from here, I had NO idea how hooped up people get about College sports. I knew people went nuts over professional sports-hello, I'm from Chicago- the Bears, the Bulls, the Blackhawks, the White Sox, and I'd like to say the Cubs, but I can't. Those darn Cubs-That's another story.

We have also been invited to partner with the Belle of Louisville for her future events. Again, you might want to Google the details on the Belle, if you're not familiar with this beautiful 90+ year old Steamboat check out www.belleoflouisville.org- It is an amazing vessel that is definitely available to host parties and private functions aboard.

We've created some cool florals for the Floyd County Arts Council, the River Breeze wine event and received the honor of being voted the Reader's choice of Best Florist in Clark County! Of course we've had many weddings along with everything else. So where is this rambling going? Back to a particular wedding which I got a call about, just 10 days ago.

This wedding took place Saturday night. Yes, yesterday. So now, I must back up and fill in the blanks. The first person who called has known me for a while. She has a 'friend' who was planning on getting married but had to bump up the date to Saturday night. This is not unusual, but not for the reasons you may be thinking.

No one was 'with child', or shipping out because of the military. No green cards involved- but I have had those. [Again, another story and the green card one is great!]

This one was bumped up because of LOVE- Well, all Brides and Grooms are in love. But this one is different. The love goes far beyond the Bride and Groom. This really involves their friends.

You see, the Bride and Groom had planned on getting married. Unfortunately, the Groom has become terminally ill and time is of the essence. So what do great friends do? They plan the whole wedding in about a week. Take care of the details and expenses for the Bride and Groom. The first friend called and explained the situation saying she wanted to pay for the Bride's bouquet and Groom's boutonniere. Another friend and regular client, called and said she wanted to pay for the attendant's bouquet and the flowers for the cake. Another friend ordered and paid for a beautiful centerpiece for the buffet.

When Cary and I arrived to set up the flowers, we were blown away by the number of 'girlfriends' present buzzing around getting everything set for the evening. It was really, touching. All of these awesome ladies had gotten together and harvested all of the flowers, ornamental grasses and foliage from their own yards. Together, they created very natural, gardeny centerpieces in mason jars. All of the tables had a little bit of love placed on them. The decor was spread throughout the room...and it looked lovely.

I haven't heard how things turned out. But I'm sure I will hear- the rest of the story, tomorrow. It's amazing what can happen when people comprehend a true sense of urgency. What was urgent was that this Bride and Groom get married. And that while they get married, they won't have to worry one bit, as to how it will all happen. That their friends love them so much, they want them to only to focus on their wonderful evening and those vows...especially the closing when you hear...and I now pronounce you husband and wife.

Let true bliss commence.

Some wise advice...

For those who know us at Lavender Hill..you know we do flowers. But what you may not know, is we do, and have always done more than that. We also have our own line of rentals, invitations and do offer planning and coordinating services. We have always done these things. Many of our clients get these additional services from us, especially our rentals. We are thrilled to create your florals, and we are very excited when you do ask us to help with the planning and execution on your big day. We also happily work, as a team, with other coordinators and event planners to make your day wonderful.


Whether we do one thing for you or a few, our goal is that you are a guest at your own event. This is recent post from a fellow florist friend, Jodi Duncan Cfd Aifd. She too, is a florist. A very talented one. She too, has been in the business for quite a while and has also seen a lot over the years. I read a recent blog post and thought I should share.......

From Jodi---
This weekend I had the privilege of providing decor for a lovely bride and her family. Bride was out of state, so I dealt mostly with mom. Both were sweet, down to earth, straightforward, and good communicators.

When I met with them at our very first consultation, I always ask:What services are you interested in?
Ceremony decor? Wedding Party Flowers? Reception flowers and rentals? Co-Ordinating? Or all of the above?

They just wanted the flowers for wedding party, ceremony and reception--they were taking care of everything else themselves. And that is always fine with me! I am glad to be the lowly florist and not service the event.
I am ala carte: my clients are free to choose as much or as little of my package as they are comfortable with.

Sooo, fast forward to the wedding date:

The chairs arrive 3 hours late. And they are dirty. And that set my clients back on their set up time that they were under contract to provide me. They were supposed to have it all ready for us when we arrived. They did not.
Thankfully, we were ahead of schedule and kind enough to set it up
(at no additional charge) so they could get their hair and makeup.

BUT...
The hair and makeup people were running late.
And taking entirely toooo loooong.
And young inexperienced divas.
And they did not realize that their grandstanding and showboating was derailing the day for the bride. And the MOB was afraid to "say anything to upset them..."
I wanted to get things back on track SOOO much!

But it was not my job.
I was the florist.
And they were their own co-ordinators.

I, as the lowly florist, just watched the wheels come off.
It was painful, for me and them.

It gets worse:

The flatware that the mob and fob were setting the table with was terribly spotted, so they were scrubbing all the flatware.
They also were setting up plates and glassware.
Then they discovered they were shorted by the rental company.

They then discovered that the desert favors the bride had made
had gotten left in the freezer at their house.
And it was too late to do anything about it.

And they were already terribly behind from the late delivery of dirty chairs.
And starting to get stressed.
And were getting snippy with each other.
And it was all unnecessary.

But they LOVED me, and LOVED their flowers.
And I hated to see such nice people in such a predicament that could have been totally avoided.

The mother of the bride did not get to be the mother of the bride.
She worked like a dog.
She did not get to enjoy her daughters wedding day.
She was too busy polishing flatware, setting the tables and fussing at the rental company.

And it made me sad.

As I left she said "Why, oh WHY did I not hire YOU to take care of ALL of THIS?!?!"
I said "I am so sorry it turned out this way for you"
She said she wished she had it to over again.
But she doesn't.

She thanked me for my extra help, and for the beautiful flowers.

And I thanked her for choosing us to be a part of their special day.

I just wished they had chosen more of me.
And so do they.

So remember, just because you CAN do it all, does NOT mean you SHOULD.

There is a saying "Whatever you are, be a good one"

You are not a planner. You are a mother/sister/friend of bride. Be that.

Let planners be planners.

Florists be florists.

Friends and family should get to be friends and family.

Its a cautionary tale.

Be a part of that wedding in your future with a smile on your face and a spring in your step.

Your heart should be full of joy, not regret, on the big day.

So here's to joy-filled wedding days!
Leave the angst filled days to the planners. We know how to handle it.
And we love our clients.
The most important thing is to look back on Your Day with no regrets.


Please remember, be a guest at your own wedding or event. We just want you to be happy. We really, truly do!! Work with a professional.

A crazy busy week for us!!!!!!

A busy week is ahead of us.

Saturday we have...A wedding in Cherokee Park and beautiful florals for the River Breeze Wine Event in Downtown Jeffersonville. We have also been asked to provide florals for the "Starry Night Event" in New Albany benefitting the Floyd Count Arts Council.

If you're looking for something to do-- don't crash the wedding, but do try and attend the other events. The River Breeze Event benefits the City Pride group in Jeffersonville. These volunteers help keep the city looking snazzy with flowers and plants and other 'beautification' projects throughout Jeffersonville. The event will take place on the Riverstage at the Lookout. There will be lots of wine and amazing food. It's the place to see and be seen.

The Starry Night event will also have barbeque, and other food, a variety of adult beverages and cigars along with- Juicy Lucy from Glassworks, an ironsmith, very cool art and other interesting features to fund the arts. If for no other reason than to support the arts- go just to see this absolutely beautiful home now a part of the Floyd County Arts Council. It's super and the flowers will be too!

Plenty to do this week!... and both events support great causes.

A quick update..

We've been super busy with weddings!!! Designing them and booking them for just a few weeks out and for next summer.

This pic is just a quick shot of the bride's bouquet from this past weekend. Our bride Lindsay wanted greens with a touch of blue. Her color palette was green, mediterranean blue and creme. Since we were busy setting up things, we didn't have much time for pics. But, not to worry. The lovely Vogue Visions was snapping some great things. We look forward to seeing what her eye captured. Check out her site or contact her with the info below.

Vogue Visions Photography • Phone: 502.609.1869 • jessica@voguevisions.com

The Seelbach WeddingShow

This past weekend, Jessica and I participated in a wedding show at the Seelbach Hotel. It was definite 'Eye Candy' for anyone in attendance. Beautiful dresses, florals, photos, food and so much more. We were happy to participate and look forward to hopefully working with some of the brides in attendance.

I wish we had more photos to post, but we were busy chatting with happy Brides and Grooms to- be.

Dream dreams....

The second part of my trip to Boston is this...along with being there for the Floral Symposium, my first reason for attending was to test for my AIFD certification. Well, this should be simple- heck I've been in the floral business for...let's see...25+ years. Truth be told, this was my second attempt to pass this test. I went for the first time last year and missed passing by one point. As much as it humbled me- there was no way I was accepting defeat. I knew I could pass this test. So I would avenge myself this year. Failure is not an option for me.

The best way to compare this test for someone not in the floral business is to combine every Food Network Show- Chopped, Iron Chef, Cake Challenge and every other super stress inducer and roll it into one four hour episode. As prepared and skilled as you are- you have no idea what you will be asked to design. You have no idea what flowers will be given to you and you have no idea what you will be using as a container for your design. So, you better know how to think on your feet, be really creative and have complete control of your nerves under pressure.

I walked, in found my table, saw what I was designing with -all in my least favorite color palette [of course] and my mind went completely blank. Which was actually a good thing for me. I completely focused and just created. Four hours flew by and so did the rest of my stay in Boston.

I tried not to drive myself crazy rethinking everything, but at times I did. I truly tried to be in the moment of enjoying this opportunity to be with floral friends and fellow testers. I enjoyed the opportunity to assist in the design room and be 'this close' to some of my favorite designers and just take in their creative ideas and conversations. It was such a welcomed moment in time. It was then Monday and time to return home. We would find out the results some time in August..or so we were told.

So where does this rock with the words on it come in??? Well, it was by chance while I was on an early morning walk in Boston, that I saw this. Down a boulevard a few blocks from the hotel, this rock was part of a memorial for a writer and sailor. I just thought it was interesting that on this day - July 4th, I would read these words-- Dream dreams.. then write them..but live them first-

I dreamed many times how I'd feel passing this test- but first I'd have to take the test. I lived it. I did it. And now I'm writing- I passed. I am now AIFD floral designer. The good news came a little early.

Who has not posted in a while???

Me!!

Time sure flies and what have I been doing? Gosh, let's see.. weddings, weddings, a couple of very detailed funerals..yes, funerals. We've done parties, photo shoots, videos, and traveled to Boston. We've done more weddings and hosted a Wine Walk with just a couple of hundred guests. Now I have time to blog. Oh, we've been doing wedding appointments and custom floral work for home interiors too.

So I've posted a couple of photos from my trip to Boston. I attended the American Institute of Floral Designer's annual Symposium- 'Revolution'. It is the Super Bowl, World Series and World Cup all in one. It's the Oscars, Emmy's, Grammy's and Tony's of the Floral industry.

I cannot put into words the visuals and the photos just don't do the event justice. I will post again in about a month about the Symposium.

In the mean time, I must say the photo of the man with the unusual floral bouquet is Gregor Lersch from Germany. I [along with a few others] was lucky enough to help him and his design assistant- Stefanie, prepare for their presentation. For people not in the floral industry, the only way I can compare my opportunity to do this is with the following... it was like being a film student and someone just told you you were going to assist ----oh, let's see- Meryl Streep or Robert DeNiro. Yes, someone really big, talented and very important within our industry. And I got to help! He was genius, patient, gracious, kind and incredibly talented. He even remembered my name when I returned to the design room to help the second day. The whole group of designers assisting him was wonderful. Some were from Canada some from California- everyone talented. It is amazing to be partnered with people, everyone new to each other with one common tie- flowers.

I did get to see a snippet of Boston, but not much and I'd love to go back. Enjoy the photos- I will post more.

A recent wedding

The wedding season is in full force. We've been busy every weekend since April and there's no end in sight. Every weekend has a wedding, multiple weddings and or and event thrown in.

I'm looking forward to the the photos I should be able to get from the photographers. In the mean time, I've posted a couple of shots from one of three weddings Mother's Day weekend. These were shots we took in our shop. I loved Lauren's choices, peony, stephanotis, hydrangea and LOTS of swarovski crystal. Always a great choice for the bride going for a feminine and old garden look.

We have some great weddings scheduled for this summer and fall. We're definitely ready for the beautiful flowers and creative opportunities ahead of us.

Something Blue Collective

I remember hearing a line in an American Express commercial ... membership has it's privileges. For some reason that has always stuck in my head- maybe because the line can be taken many ways. At the time I guess I thought -Gee, if I have an American Express card somehow I must be special. Well, I have an American Express card, and I have had it for a while, and I can't say I feel any more special than when I didn't have it. It's just a card I have and I rarely use it.

In the past year I have had the opportunity to have membership in a couple of things that have made me feel special. The first was my certification as a Certified Floral Designer with the American Institute of Floral Designers. I have been working towards this goal for a while. I achieved the first part of my goal last summer. This July, I plan to achieve the second half.

The next membership I feel truly privileged to be a part of is the Something Blue Collective. Recently, I received an invitation to become a member. This group includes a limited variety of vendors who are truly passionate about their art and business. I list the art and business as two things because to me, they are similar but not the same. My art is floral design. My business is successfully continuing to keep my art in a positive state of existence. Being sure people are aware of its' existence, consistently producing an excellent product, providing excellent client service and being sure I keep my creative support team employed. It is a huge responsibility.

The Something Blue Collective is a group of local vendors with links to the wedding and event industry. Members include, photographers, event planners, caterers, floral designers, attire, etc. It is an amazing group of individuals all truly passionate about their art and business. If you go to the website, www.somethingbluecollective.com you can get a glimpse of some of the best local talents in the business of weddings and events. I am honored to be considered a member.

Just this past weekend, IC Video shot the info segment for Lavender Hill. Along with video, the team from Deanna Kaye Photography shot images to blend with the video. I was definitely nervous about doing the video. We had a busy weekend with three weddings and Mother's Day and I did not have much sleep. I'm not shy about talking, in any way shape or form. To be honest, I was more worried about giant bags showing under my eyes. Worrying about my hands flying about while I was speaking-- I tend to be very animated while I speak and my hands tend to join in on my conversation. And of all things, I wanted to be sure and articulate the things I felt were important to include in the three minute video. I know the video will be wonderful- just viewing the other member's videos verifies that. But I'm still a little nervous about seeing it. Things were just a little busy in the shop and the video and photo crew was incredibly patient. Getting to experience their professionalism, see the amazing equipment they use and how well they blended their two arts was really wonderful. This alone made me again so very happy to be a part of this group.

Check back for the video. In the mean time, check out the website and take the time to view the other member's video. Go to their website and learn more about what they have to offer. You will very glad you did.

Something to Celebrate.. in Paradise

This past Monday, my husband and I returned from a trip- 25 years in the making. We went to Key West to celebrate our 25th anniversary.

Never did I really think, 25- actually 30+ years ago [we dated for 5 1/2 years] that I could ever love someone more than the day I married him. I knew I'd heard that expression, but I always thought- how could it EVER be better than this? Oh, such a naive girl I was.

It has been an amazing journey from a simple apartment to our first tiny- REALLY tiny house, to the next house and more. Two absolutely wonderful, smart, loving confident children- now young adults moving into their own careers. I truly felt if we got raising the kids right- an absolute must- the rest would be gravy. It is. It has been a great journey and I'm truly looking forward to the next 25+ years. I always hope for the best with every Bride and Groom I meet. It's never always easy and truly takes commitment, but the payoff is priceless.

Now, on to the photo. If you want a beautiful place to stay in Key West definitely check into The Reach Resort. It's simply beautiful. Not too big or small, a beautiful beach and pool, beautiful accommodations- it's simply perfect. Fly in-because the drive from Miami is four hours. You will want to get there as quickly as possible so, book the first flight in and the last flight home- you won't want to leave.

Not just weddings and parties....

I know we're known in the area for our wedding and party work..which we love to do. Another part of our business involves doing the floral work for funerals.

We truly LOVE doing sympathy work. We look at that request as a compliment. The fact that someone specifically calls us to send the last floral tribute to their friend or loved one is a very special request.

Recently, Jessica spoke with a family member requesting a garden-like setting to surround their loved one's memorial urn. I think she did a great job creating the garden as our client envisioned. An assortment of beautiful seasonal blooming plants, branches and grasses- all of which can then be planted into the family's actual garden. It was designed complete with rocks, moss and butterflies. A beautiful memorial.

Thanks for stopping by.

It's Contagious!!!

News flash !!!

Many of our Male clients are Contagious!! They have been diagnosed with the Love Bug. The only cure is getting engaged.

We can't say who it is-- you know with all of the privacy rules in effect and everything.. but he's got the ring and she's-
THE ONE!!

It's so cool to be in on the secret !! Congratulations Mr. X !!

Don't wait!!

Oh, my gosh! We have been booking appointments like Crazy!!

If you have a 2010 wedding or event don't wait to call us to discuss the floral details. We have been meeting with lots of super excited people regarding their parties this year. Some dates are definitely booked. Mother's Day weekend- two lucky girls snagged Friday and Saturday. And we never do two that weekend! Or typically even one- for that matter but, they both called within hours of each other. Since one was Friday and one Saturday, we booked it.

There are some wonderful new venues around. The Bliss Ballroom just opened in New Albany. It can accommodate up to 300 people. It has a huge hardwood floor with a balcony area that surrounds about one third of the room. Giant windows, lots of natural light. Check it out.

And for your rehearsal dinner. DEFINITELY check out Cozza Restaurant in Downtown Jeffersonville. It is amazing. The chef is fantastic. The menu fresh, seasonal, local and unique. Their prices- very good, especially when you see what is available to you.

I'd love to write more.. but I have proposals to type.. One word of advice.. if you can find it in your budget, for piece of mind seriously consider hiring a Day-of Coordinator. They are worth the investment to ensure a stress-free day. You will not lose control of what you want. They just make sure everything is taken care of as you wish so you and your groom [and Mom] can just enjoy the day.

Make today great!!!!!!