Good things in 2010...

Can I just say that I am psyched for 2010? I started this year feeling as though something big and wonderful were going to happen, and so far I have yet to be disappointed. I welcomed the new year with a trip to TSE 2010 in New Orleans, reconnecting with a cherished old friend, and making new friends, who I expect will become every bit as special to me.

I have so many things to be thankful for, and so many wonderful things to look forward to. I can't say exactly what all these amazing things will be, but I do know this. -Personally I have reassessed my goals and dreams, taken stock of the blessings in my life, and tried to focus on the things which are truly important to me.I believe that we have to move forward with optimism and hope and a belief in our dreams. We may encounter failure on the road to success, but it will make us stronger.

Someone very dear to me told me that an old friend was talking about the future and said, " This might be the year." I told that person to let my friend know to let them know that this isn't a question of whether it might or might not be.... this IS the year! I can only hope that everyone else is feeling the same way. Over the past year we have seen changes in our world, impossibilities come to life and catastrophes beyond belief, and in the face of it all, we have come together- stronger communities, families and friendships. Change is about embracing the ups and downs and learning from them! What will you do in 2010?

Are you having a vintage wedding?

These veils are amazing!! I came across these wonderful customizable veils and had to share them!

Dorene at Unveiled Bridal Design creates heirloom quality one of kind birdcage veils and hats that can be ordered off of her website (www.unveiledbridal.com) or made to order using on of her catalogs. If you're looking for something different that can be kept and passed down, definately visit her website.

Green centerpieces...

Photo Credits: Martha Stewart Weddings

Looking for an alternatives to the traditional centerpiece? I love the idea of using unique items in my designs, and as a grower I love to use anything that I can grow in my greenhouses!

Here are some great ideas for centerpieces, decorations and favors that will keep your event eco- friendly, yet beautiful at the same time! Living centerpieces make wonderful alternatives to cut flowers, and you can use them as favors as well. Pot up those herbs in some cute pots and paint them silver for a little sparkle, then let your guests take them home at the end of the evening.

Can you picture the tomatoes at an afternoon wedding on the farm or a family reunion? - and succulents- love them!! I'm seeing them pop up everywhere, and they look great . A little unusual, but fantastic. Imagine tall cylinders with round bowls filled with succulents of all kinds.

Use your imagination- the options are endless!

Planning a beach wedding?

Check out this wonderful tabletop from the fabulous Nouveau Flowers of Grayton Beach, Florida!! I was lucky enough to meet many talented designers and planners at The Special Event in New Orleans this past week. This was one of the many beautiful tabletop designs. I adore the sea urchins, and the blue and yellow details at the top are fluttering butterflies! Beautiful!

Coming soon...

Shalon over at papermepretty has been working on our new brand, and is doing a fabulous job!! I'm so excited to get it all up and running, but for now, here's a sneak peek!!

If you get a chance, visit her website at www.designartsoul.com. She has beautiful business cards, graphics work, and paper products! She has a great store on etsy.com ( love them!! ) and you can find just about everything you need for your design work.

January Flower of the Month

gardenia, originally uploaded by *omnia*.

I hope the new year is treating everyone well! My new beginning is a Flower of the Month! One flower every month from my very favorites to share with you.

Gardenias have always been my favorite!! I absolutely adore them, not just as a wedding flower, but in general! They are available as large blooms- 3" - 4" and in a miniature form as well, and have a heavenly aroma! If you love fragrant flowers, you'll love this one!

GARDENIA

Meaning: Purity, joy
Best For: Bouquets and boutonnieres
Scent: Very fragrant
In Season: Year-round
Price Range: Expensive

Here in the Northeast we can't grow them outdoors, but if your thumb is green enough to keep them indoors- more power to you!

Happy New Year!!

After contemplating blogging for so long I am so happy to welcome 2010, and finally welcome you to my blog. Flowers have been my life for so long I can hardly remember what I did before them. Flowers are wonderful in their own right- flowers for beautiful celebrations are like the icing on the cake for me. Here, I will share with you the many fabulous flowers I both grow and work with, the wonderful friends I have made along the way, exciting inspiration, and all the wonderful happenings that keep me going in the wonderful world of floral design. Thanks for taking the time to visit!!

I wish everyone health, happiness and best wishes for the year ahead! Hopefully we'll have lots to share over the new year!