Plants

There has been of late a huge surge in the promoting the benefits that plants have on indoor environments and the health benefits they provide for humans. I have recently just finished a report regarding the benefits of flowers in urban environments such as offices. The average consumer forgets that flowers are there to be utilised, not just for decoration, but when words just wont do, flowers are there speaking volumes, Im sorry, Thank you, I miss you, In Sympathy, Happy Birthday, the list is endless. Participants in my study eagerly looked forward to fresh flowers at the beginning of each week and made positive comments regarding such as the flowers enhanced the sterile office environment, they provided stimulation and a focal point for staff members, something that they could all share in. Many commented that they felt happier arriving to work and seeing a riot of colour on their desks. I, myself, am a firm believer in the practical benefits plants and flowers provide. I was delighted when a week ago, my Stephanotis plant began to flower . . . I was beginning to give up hope thinking I had killed the poor thing. I am eagerly awaiting the creamy buds to open and pour a sweet scent into my room.

I have 2 beautiful Phalaenopsis orchids that take pride of place in my plant collection. Not only for their incredible vibrant colour but for their air purifying abilities. Orchids are known to be one of the best houseplants for 'cleaning' the air around it. Orchids recycle the air at night, giving fresh oxygen out. Therefore, it makes a wonderful plant to keep in the bedroom, so it cleans the air as you sleep.

This particular moth orchid has the most exotic speakled  petals, mirroring a lepoards spots but on a condensed scale.

Mothering Sunday

I think spring may have finally sprung . . .  the wind is certainly brushing away the winter cobwebs. I have just recovered from my first Mothering Sunday at a local florists. I must say it was truely manic. If the phone wasnt ringing, then it was customers queing out the door!! A team of 9 people and we still felt overwhelmed at times. As much as I would like to say that this how every shop was running or does run everyday, sadly I cant. The recession has hit us hard but such a busy period really has raised the spirits somewhat. Brought a new perspective to the table. . .  and hopefully we  all have listened carefully to our customers requirements and provided a memoriable service and top products  so that they continue to come back year after year and not just for Mothers Day!! By lunch time Saturday 2nd, the girls at the shop has made a unanimous decision that the shop needed to be shut for a hour or two to catch up on the orders due to be delivered the following day. Our boss, however, with much courage said we must soldier on. . . and soldier on we did. I was stationed at making ready - to -run bouquets for those customers who prefer to pick up something pretty and hit the road quick. Every bouquet I made, I can happily announce left the shop floor, not long after being priced and sat in a bucket. A few pictures below of my handy work. No accessories needed . . . the  simplicity of the flowers did all the talking.

A simple country chic style bouquet featuring Bella Rosa and beautifully scented stocks. . . The smell can really be the selling point of a bouquet.

Bella Rosa, China Grass, Alstroemaeria and Baby blue Eucalyptus makes for a feminine and unstated combination. A few pink tulips add a hint of spring.