Virtually any variety of fresh flower can brighten up your home, outdoor walkways and events. When selecting flowers, the three most important things to be aware of are the appearance, color and aromatic scent.
I customarily head down to the San Francisco wholesale Flower Mart and choose various types of flowers for dinner parties, gifts or just plain ol' me. My preferred flower to have in my home isn’t the popular rose, but the white French tulip. When I step foot into a local floral shop, I'm like a kid in a candy store! I love to look at how the flowers are designed and placed meticulously in their vases, pots or even in glass canning jars. It’s a great place for creative inspiration. I'm sure the flower shop owners think I'm crazy when I gaze upon these beautifully stemmed gems, but I just love them!
A bouquet of flowers is easy to design, when you have time. First, choose a color scheme. Then, place both short and spiky flowers into a creative-looking vase. Throw in some green, red or yellow foliage or a branch or two for a different dimension. And remember, the vase or container for your bouquet is just as important as the flowers themselves. Don't choose an ordinary glass vase. Choose one with pizazz! I suggest selecting something out of the ordinary like a hurricane lantern or a container entwined in branches. It's all about experimentation, so have fun!
I love to experimentally design with many types of flowers, but when I want something simple I throw a bunch of like-colored tulips (when they are in season) into a vase to admire. When guests visit, I place fresh flowers in each bathroom or on each bed stand as a happy welcome. Flowers can make anyone feel good and when they smell good, it’s even better. Aromatherapy at its' best! They can spruce up any emotion and I truly believe that they are grown on this mother earth for a reason.
Outside, I'm constantly changing my walkway and large outdoor planters with something full of life and color depending on the season. It’s amazing what a bunch of flowers can do for your well-being. So the next time you’re out and about, find yourself some flowers from the grocery store, florist or even your own garden. Don't wait for flowers to come to you, grab them yourself. You'll thank me later for this touch of happiness. I promise! :)
I'm a regular member of the Flower Mart, so if you're ever in need of some fabulous flowers, just ask! And don’t forget to stop and smell the roses!
