A toast to 2011!!

Wishing everyone the best year ever and hoping 2011 is a year of love, health and happiness. Have a wonderful and blessed new year!

Jill & Craigs Wave Hill wedding

photo by Windham Gardens

Check out the photos of Jill & Craig , married at Wave Hill Botanical Garden - NYC!! Thanks to the talented Cappy Hotchkiss for sharing the images!

Cappy Hotchkiss Photography Blog

The CT Bridal Event - UCONN Alumni Center

I've finally gotten pictures up from the Fall CT Bridal Event!!! It was great to see so many talented vendors again, as well as have the opportunity to make some new friends. Thanks to Kia and her fabulous crew at ESTOccassions for hosting this great event!

Happy Memorial Day!!

Hoping everyone had a safe and happy holiday and sending out a huge thank you to all the men and women serving our country!!

Artichokes!!!

I'm so excited to be growing artichokes this year!! I've been babying them from seed in the greenhouse since February, and finally they are ready for transplant!

Vegetables are such a fun addition to arrangements, and I love artichokes. Garlic and leeks are also fun, but for Summer, they are my veggie of choice. We will have both green and purple available and I'm dying to see how they come out. You never can tell when growing something new, but I have a good feeling about this one.

Check back to see our progress!!

May Flower of the month~

Okay- I'm more than a bit overdue with my favorites, but here is one that I just can't get enough of...

Bells of Ireland
Molucella laevis

Molucella - also known as "Bells of Ireland" - is a wonderfully versatile flower, used widely throughout the flower industry. While retaining a distinctly rustic charm, echoing the traditional lines of the foxglove, it also gives an eclectic modern edge to many flower combinations; it also looks fantastic on its own, just 6-7 stems standing tall in a stylish glass vase. The marvelous lime green bells of the flower calyx make this a great one for arranging!

Whether molucella is actually a flower or variety of foliage is often open to debate. In fact, molucella is a member of the mint family and has a unique perfume all of its own. Bells of Ireland originally came from Syria and the eastern Mediterranean; a hardy annual with flowers that never fail to impress, blooms which are the most exquisite shade of lime green.

The so-called "bells" - actually the calyx - can be found along the length of the stem, which often reaches a height of 2ft, possibly more. Each of the bells conceals the flowers protection mechanism; a series of small, white spikes which are surprisingly sharp. These are generally removed before getting to the retail level, but you should beware just in case!!

It is best to keep molucella cool, with a good supply of fresh water. from direct sunlight, A cool window ledge which receives lots of natural light but only minimal direct sun is the perfect spot for a bouquet.

Since Victorian times, Bells of Ireland have been considered a symbol of good luck - the perfect flower to send to someone starting a new job, or moving to a new home.

Available from your local florist year round, these are really an awesome flower!!

Grand Opening!!

photos by Windham Gardens


It's right around the corner and we can't wait!! On April 30th Windham Gardens will open it's doors right here at the farm. It's been a labor of love, and many years coming to have our store here at the farm- to meet our neighbors meet with our clients and invite people to be a part of what keeps us going.

It's been hectic over the past month, with getting the store up, planting the greenhouses, and getting the fields planted, but here we are, and summer will be here before we know it. We'll be starting the Madison Farmers Market at the beginning of May, so if you weren't able to make it last season, you'll have! It really is a wonderful market, with only 13 vendors, but a fantastic variety!! TALK seafood brings in some of the freshest seafood you'll ever find, Sankow's Beaver Brook Farm brings cheeses and lamb meat, and what would a trip to any market in CT be without a loaf of Wave Hill Bread?? At this small but abundant market you can find a whole meal in one trip, all while enjoying local music and a glass of lemonade from Michelle at Michelle's Pies from Norwalk. (She makes the most delicious pecan pies I have ever eaten!!)

Check us out at www.madisonctfarmersmarket.com



Come visit with us, get your plants for your garden, join our CSA, pick up a lovely bouquet for your home or office, or plan your meal around some of the best produce here in CT. Whatever you're coming for, we think you'll be pleasantly surprised at what can be found here in our little corner. Not only do we have our own great products, but those from our friends at other CT farms and businesses as well.

We're looking forward to another great season here at the farm and we can't wait to see you here!

Beautiful greenhouse!!

It's official- in our world, Spring is here!! We are full bore into planting season, getting ready for the Spring season as you all know it. That is to say, April and May when all of the seeds that we're growing now will become your gardens. Wonderful flowers, fantastic veggies and beautiful Hanging baskets for your front porches.

... and our big news for the year- our planning and zoning commission approved our permits to open our store, so not only will we be at our usual markets this year, but you all can come visit us here at the farm!! I'm looking forward to all of the possibilites that this will open up for us. We'll keep you posted on the progress.

Spring is coming!!

images from Windham Gardens

I love this time of year!!

I've been lost in the greenhouse, busy seeding all the annuals, perennials, and herbs that will become bouquets, centerpieces, and arrangements as the season progresses, and I have to say, I am in my glory!

I absolutely love this time of year, when I can feel Spring in the air- despite the fact that there is snow in the forecast, and I can dream of all the lovely blooms to come. March 20th will mark the first day of Spring, as well as Firefly Night to benefit the Channel 3 Kids Camp. I can't wait! I have a great arrangement in my head for the raffle, and I am so looking forward to making it.

It's not too late to get your tickets if you haven't already!

This Spring season is bringing lots of exciting projects- the opening of our store/ studio here at the farm, booking weddings for 2011 already, and getting lots of new varieties growing for the season.

Wish Upon a Wedding- check it out!!

Liz Guthrie has brought together some great wedding professionals to grant wedding wishes to people facing terminal illness. Together, with a group of wonderfully talented professionals, Liz and the crew at Wish Upon a Wedding are working to make sure that people get to marry the ones they love despite their illness or situation.

Anyone who knows me knows that I hold the fight against cancer close to my heart and send my prayers to any family or person affected by this disease. Any organization that helps people battling terminal illnesss of any sort has my support! To see these wonderful women helping people fulfill their dream of getting married is truly inspiring.

Check out their website to find out how you can become involved!

www.wishuponawedding.org

Currently they have chapters in California, Chicago, New York, Orlando, D.C., Maryland, Houston, Tennesee, Atlanta,Indianapolis, The Carolinas, and Seattle with plans to expand.

They're taking applications now for wish granters in all areas as well as from those looking to receive a wedding wish !

DIY Flowers ... part II

So what if you can't hire a floral designer?
Maybe you're on a limited budget, or flowers just aren't your priority. You can still have a beautiful wedding- but here are some things to remember that will make the process go alittle more smoothly!

Set realistic goals. If you've never arranged flowers or are not naturally artistic, don't try to create an opulent 4 foot centerpiece with crystals, flowers and candles for 15 tables. Stick with something simple that will be easy to create in mass.


Be thorough. Make a detailed list of all the pieces you need and how long it takes you to make each piece.

Don't forget - containers, supplies ( wire, foam, shears, ribbons,baskets, pins for bouts/ corsages), flowers and greenery.....
make sure your list is complete, and know where to go if you need anything last minute.

Do a trial run. Figure out stem counts, and remember to allow for error. A stem will always break, or have a blemish. It is nature after all. I always like to have extras on hand. Know how much time you really need to put it all together, so that if it is really too much you have time to make that decision.

and finally...


Do your homework!! I can't stress this one enough. Get a book, ask a friend that does flowers, or consider grabbing your girls and going to a floral arranging class! Make a day of it- champagne, flowers and friends. Learn how to process flowers so that they last. Also make sure you know which flowers work well for cut flowers- not all flowers will hold up for 2-3 days once cut from their stems. You don't want to spend all night making your arrangements only to wake up and find they've wilted.

Check our website, chances are pretty good that you can visit our studio and learn everything you need to know.

Happy arranging!

Do you really need a professional florist?

Photo credit: Project wedding

Are you a DIY bride? Contemplating doing your own floral arrangements? With the economy the way it is and everyone trying to keep costs down, floral arrangements seem to be one place where brides can cut their costs. so many brides ask, do I really need a floral designer?

Why should you consider hiring a floral designer? We are professionals, with years of experience handling, arranging, and delivering beautiful wedding flowers. We know what flowers to use, when they are available and how those flowers will hold up all day at your wedding or special event. If the flower you always dreamed of having just isn't an option for the time of year or is too costly for your budget, we know how to give you that same look with something else. Despite all the magazines you've read, nothing can replace experience.

You should be enjoying your event, not working! Do you really want to spend the night before your wedding making 7 bouquets, 12 boutonnieres, 15 centerpieces... the list goes on. We know you can order your flowers from Costco and you can find the vases, but do you know what those flowers will look like after having been in your refrigerator for 2-3 days? We have the coolers, the staff, and the means to deliver your flowers, set up your event and disappear before anyone knows we were there. The only trace we leave are beautiful arrangements and decor for you and your guests to enjoy.

Wouldn't you rather be the guest of honor and enjoy your very special day?

Happy Valentines Day!!

Photo : Martha Stewart Weddings

I hope everyone is having a wonderful Valentine's Day!! Whether you are attached or single, I hope you've had a little love in your day and a fabulous evening!

Come join us!!

Join us to support a great cause!!

Each year more than 4,000 children from Connecticut and New England attend the Channel 3 Kids Camp, nestled on 350 acres in the historic communities of Andover and Coventry. While at camp, children ages 6 - 16 are able to escape the hustle and bustle of the 'real world with time spent in the country. Campers experience a care-free refuge for a healthy summer of play, the outdoors and making new friends with programs that promote confidence and independence.

The Kids Camp is also year round facility, welcoming children and adults to participate in Natures Classroom, Camp Ventures After School Program, Winter Vacation Day Camp and Retreats.

	Firefly Night ~ Every child deserves to chase fireflies! Saturday | March 20, 2010 In conjunction with ESTOccasions (event, special themes and occasions), the evening will feature a cake challenge, signature appetizers prepared by Hop River Café, silent auctions and dancing. Join us for an evening of fun and philanthropy at the University of Connecticut Alumni Center in Storrs, CT. Read More! Purchase Tickets Here

February Flower of the Month- Hellebore

Photo credits: 1. Martha Stewart Weddings, 2. discardedlies.com, 3. pheonixperennials.com, 4. mikejones.us.com


Beautiful Hellebores!!

With a new blanket of snow covering the ground I thought it only fitting that I share one of the few flowers that will grow even as the cold weather has put everything else to rest.

Also known as the Lenten Rose or Christmas Rose, because of their ability to bloom all winter, these are available in shades of pink, white, green, and dark burgundy.

Valentines LOVE

Photo credits: (top left clockwise) 1,2 :Martha Stewart Weddings, 3, 4 : Williams Sonoma
5. Coloring Cricket for weddingpaperdivas.com , 6. Countryliving.com

Valentine's Day is quickly approaching, so for those of you thinking about your special day, a few photos to get your creative juices flowing! Don't you just adore the invites? A little bit of vintage for your special event .

Citrus inspiration!!

Photo credits: from top left: Martha Stewart Weddings (MSW) , sign from Chocolate Butterbean via Southern Weddings, 3,4,5, & 6 from MSW,
dresses from Brides.com, bar display via MSW, center photo- Tyrone Farms, Pomfret, CT.

Sometimes I see an arrangement and I am just inspired! That was the case when I saw this beautiful centerpiece from Martha Stewart Weddings. I know, citrus has been done before, but as I walk outside and the chill hits my face I can't help but look at this and just say wow! So I put together this inspiration board and lost myself to a daydream of New England farms, summer, warm weather and great friends!

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!