Flower Power
Valentine’s Day is next Monday, and even if you are not an active participant of this commercialized holiday, I hope you agree with me that it is so special to receive a bouquet of flowers. I absolutely love flowers! When I lived in New York, I made a concerted effort to always have a fresh bouquet in my apartment – it was so easy to just pick one up at the corner market.
Now that I live out West, I don’t purchase flowers as often. I think it is because I live in such a beautiful area that is surrounded by gorgeous foliage and verdant flora all year round. I mean, I have a plumeria plant inside my house and bougainvillea sprouting beautiful magenta flowers all the time! Regardless, I still love flowers and I absolutely believe an elegant floral arrangement changes the entire aura of my home.
Now, why do women love flowers? Obviously they are beautiful and smell wonderful, but flowers also have a long history as messengers of romance and a storied history as a symbol of love. Since the days of ancient Greece and Egypt, flowers have held an important meaning in relationships due to their beauty. More importantly, there’s generally meaning behind flowers. Every single color and type of flower comes with its own traditional meaning and sentiment - symbolisms that have been developed through time. Many of us probably know the language of roses in particular. Finally, someone took the time (possibly) to arrange what kinds of flowers would be in the bouquet or arrangement. That fact alone can make anyone gush!
So, in honor of Valentine’s Day, surround yourself with flowers! Some florists to consider:
B.Brooks Fine Flowers (www.bbrooks.com): This is my go-to place whenever I want to send a tasteful and elegant arrangement. They have partnerships with local florists around the country that are invitation-only, so you can rest assured that your arrangement will come from only one of the finest local florists. When you order from B. Brooks, one of their exclusive floral designers will create a unique flower arrangement just for you and deliver it anywhere in the US.
Bloom Flowers (www.bloomflowers.com): You have to live in New York City and the surrounding tri-state area, but this was my florist of choice when I lived in Manhattan. Established in 1993, Bloom is a premiere, luxury flower destination. Each arrangement is a tight compact assortment of extraordinary seasonal flowers in monochromatic or lush jewel tones. In my opinion, one of New York’s finest.
Isari Flower Studio (www.isariflowerstudio.com): Spreading the love to my boyfriend’s aunt’s shop, but it is seriously one of the most beautiful places with the chicest arrangements. A truly treasured gem in Solana Beach, California.
1-800-Flowers (1-800-flowers.com): Oh, don’t be so snobby! Have you seen their arrangements lately? They’ve definitely improved their aesthetic, including offering exclusive arrangements by Martha Stewart, the home doyenne. Best of all, you may be able to score a promotion code which will help you save on shipping or the total cost of the arrangement.
