At Best Buds It Was Always About The Love!

I'd love to introduce all of you to Kate & Mike ... one of the happy couples that I have had the privilege of getting to know while we worked together to create the floral designs that would make their August Wedding at the Glasbern Inn a reflection of themselves and their style! When you are a Wedding Floral Designer you have the responsibility of not only trying to capture a vision but also 'delivering dreams'!!! All of this may sound like a wee bit of a stretch especially if you are in your business and just worry 'about the bottom line' ... but Best Buds has always been run with Passion!!! Yes, a passion not only for the flowers but also for the people who trusted me with one of the most important days in their lives ... talk about pressure :-) But in Best Buds' 12 year history I am pleased to say ... YES ... we made lots of dreams come true!!! But now ... it's time for me to 'turn a page' ....

I have been blessed to meet so many great people and be a part of their weddings, special events and even decorated their homes ... loving every minute of it. There is nothing more important in life to me than my family ... and several months ago I was unable to attend a few of my oldest granddaughter's events and when I told her I could not come because I was going to be setting up wedding flowers ... she looked at me and said 'Gram, you are always working' .... hmmmmm .... out of the mouths of babes .... I took her words to heart and tucked them away and kept on working ... but they continued to echo in my heart ... what was going on? ... I love what I do! Then came the desire to go forward and explore new adventures...begin all those new projects that I have 'put on the back burner' for so long ... and also to re-visit some old loves ... so what was the message that my spirit was trying to tell me?

...then in the eyes of my two favorite girls ... Jordan and Aubrey ... I saw my new path ... it was time to leave the world of Weddings, take their hands and share those new adventures and projects with them ... we only have 'the present moment' and I don't want to miss another minute of their moments ... so that is why Best Buds will be leaving the 'Wedding' scene at the end of 2012 ... it's been a great time ... and I still have a VERY VERY busy Fall and Winter Schedule ahead of me which I am so excited about and looking forward to making more dreams come true ... I want to thank all of you for your support ... for believing in Best Buds .... and while I won't be creating Wedding designs in 2013 ... flowers will always be a part of my life and you can be sure so will all of YOU!!!

Picture Perfect Peonies!

The Month of May is such an extremely BUSY time here at Best Buds ... not only because Wedding Season kicks into High Gear .... but it's also growing and planting time on our three acres of Paradise. Right now our organically grown Peonies are bursting into full bloom ....

the rain did a number on us this month and it was a 'race to the finish' to harvest buds and get them into 'cold storage' for future use in June. Peonies are one of my favorite blooms because they are so showy and fragrant. I love flowers that have fragrance and even when they begin to drop their petals ... I will air dry them . . . .

OR just air dry the entire peony bloom (individually because they don't like company and will rot) and later place them in a pretty dish to display

... that way I get to enjoy their essence just a wee bit longer :-) People ask me all the time 'How can I prolong my fresh cut Peony Season?' I tell them to harvest their Peonies when the buds have shown color and if you gently squeeze it ... it feels like a soft marshmellow.

Cut them with a sharp knife on angle . . . shake off the ants and earwigs that want to come along for the ride ... wrap them individually lenthwise in plain paper (cut the ends off a brown bag) and secure them with rubber bands ... keep them in a cool dark place free of humidity and they will go into a dormant state and when you want to use them ... unwrap them ... give them a fresh cut on an angle with your knife and place them in fresh water

and see them bloom right before your eyes -- Hope you try this 'trick' and enjoy the 'magic' of Peonies too!

'To Fool Or Not To Fool!!!'

Happy April Fool's Day!!! Why single out the first day of April to dream up what sort of 'sneaky' thing we can pull on someone so we can have the 'satisfaction' of experiencing that 'Gotcha' moment!!!

Well I'm not going to give you a history lesson on the who, what, where or why about April 1st and why they call it 'Fools Day' . . . that would be taking all the 'fun' out of this great event.

I LOVE April Fools Day . . . maybe because I am the daughter of one of the 'Biggest Fools' as he affectionately referred to himself -- you see my Dad, Julius, was born on April Fools Day.

Can you imagine this day as your Birthday . . .

. . . think about it . . . you are a 'sitting' duck ... everyone would be out to 'get the birthday guy or gal' -- who wouldn't want the bragging rights to have pulled the best prank of the day. Well in our home, my Dad was the prankster. NO ONE ever got the upper hand with him --

He lived up to his reputation of being an April Fools Baby and was VERY PROUD OF IT!

So Happy Birthday Dad --

you may no longer be with us .... but I can feel your smile as I remember all the 'gags' you pulled off to make YOUR Birthday special . . . thanks for the great memories!

St. Patrick's Day Wedding

You were all probably expecting to see a photo of Green flowers well surprisingly enough I learned a few things from Nicole, a sweet Irish Lass, who was married to Anthony yesterday -- which by the way was PERFECT for their Lakeside Ceremony.

When I first met Nicole .... I had a portfolio full of designs overflowing with bright green flowers, foliage, shamrocks ... you name it .... it was in there! Was my face 'red' when she told me that it really was 'bad' luck for the couple if guests wore green to the Wedding and she was not taking any chances with her flowers ... She wanted bright bold colors with just a wee touch of the green!

Everyday should be an adventure and we should learn something new by day's end ... I sure did ... and I can't wait to see what I can add to my little 'brain' bank today!!!

2012 International Philadelphia Flower Show

This past Wednesday I was fortunate enough to have the pleasure of visiting the 2012 International Philadelphia Flower Show which showcased the Islands of Hawaii.

It was a virtual 'Sea of People' that resembled a 'Lava Flow 'similar to the 'Pele' Display by Schaffer Designs!

Simply put this show is where Mother Nature met the imaginations of so many talented designers. The incredible beauty of the tropics was enhanced by the authentic Polynesian Dancers who performed for the awe struck audience ... including yours truly!

Of course one does work up an appetite at these events and even though there were plenty of opportunities to visit eateries at the show --- I love the Reading Terminal Market right across the street from the Convention Center --- so we made our way to Herschel's Deli to enjoy one of their mouth watering authentic Hot Pastrami Sandwiches -- the kind you can only get in the City!

I may be a 'Country Girl' but I do love the 'energy' of the City!! So after lunch and a quick run around the market ... we headed back to the show to visit Waldor Orchids -- one of my favorite show vendors! There are all kinds of orchids ... from the easy to the complex care ones -- but all of them are beautiful and healthy. Their staff is friendly, knowledgeable and patient!!! You never go wrong with one of their plants!

I circled their display about three times until I made my final choice & purchased this little beauty ... I know I know .... she may be small but give her a year or two and she will be glorious!!!

We also visited many other vendors .... but I always stop at the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society Stand -- they have so many beautiful items for sale but my hands were full, my little purse was overflowing and I needed HELP quickly and I spied this great 'tropical' tote to stash all my treasures in for the trip home!!

So there you have it -- my little day trip to Hawaii!!! If I have peaked your curiosity, given you a case of Island Fever, tempted your tastebuds and appealed to the shopper in you, I have only skimmed the surface of this wonderful show. But if you are now 'kicking yourself' for not getting there .... it's OK .... you still have time to visit the show this weekend and create your own magical Island Memory!!! Aloha!

2012 Magic of Love & A Cure For Cancer Valentine's Fundraiser Results

Good News is always fun to share but first I want to tell everyone who came out to Best Buds and supported the 2012 Magic of Love & Cure for Cancer Valentine Fundraiser Event how much it meant to have your support for this very worthy cause.

We had so much fun from Friday all the way until Valentine's Day seeing all the faces of those who came to pick up their 'Magic' Roses ... and hearing all the positive feedback as to how surprised they were to see what 'they were getting'. Many had never seen Golden Flower's 'Magic Rose' Series .... as I said before - they are not your garden variety of Valentine Red Rose .... they are just a fun rose as you can see from the photo I added. Most were pleasantly surprised as to how they were packaged and could not wait to give them to their 'special someones'. Again and again I am hearing as to how surprised they were at 'how long the roses lasted' ..... I tell them that is a Best Buds' trade secret :-)

Well here is the GOOD NEWS that I broke to Diane O'Donnell, the Chairperson from the American Cancer Society Tamaqua Relay For Life Campaign. . .
BEST BUDS IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THE DONATION OF $1,180.30!!!!!! Best Buds' donated all of the 300 roses, accent flowers, packaging, sweet treats, time, etc. and yes, we could have charged so much more ... but I believe EVERYONE should have flowers ... it's the 'Magic' of Valentine's Day and the joy of giving that makes life so worthwhile!

Again, Thank You ..... Thank You ..... Thank You for allowing me the privilege of putting on this event and again for your support of the American Cancer Society and Best Buds Specialty Florists!

BLOOM!!!

Where on earth did February go??? Blink and it's over ... well no worry much going on here at Best Buds ... just finished the American Cancer Society Valentine Fundraiser ... stay tuned ... will be announcing the first week in March the total amount raised -- so exciting.

Met so many great people in February who came in for Wedding & Event Consultations and learned a 'thing or two' about real Irish Weddings -- will share that with you in March, joined Pinterest -- very habit forming, be careful

but if you like the photos on this Blog then check me out on Pinterest ... not just Weddings, all kinds of fun things.

Doing some Book Research for a fellow Wedding, Event Planner and Flower Friend ...

oh that reminds me, I must email that to Dawn.

Also, I want to Welcome Adele and Diane who signed up to follow along & to all the 'Linky' followers ...

so grateful to have you stop by and visit!

Enjoy the last few days of February -- and remember ...
No matter where you are planted .... Bloom .... Just Bloom!

Best Buds' 2011 Weddings & Events

Presenting a slideshow featuring the Weddings & Special Events that Best Buds had the privilege of being a part of in 2011. I want to thank all of my Wedding Couples and Mary 'Grammy Janitz's' Family for placing their trust in me and allowing me the honor of creating floral designs for their special days!!!
As I put this slideshow together it was wonderful to revisit their events and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

Make a free slideshow design

The Magic of Love & A Cure For Cancer -- Valentine's Day Rose Sale Friday, February 10th from 3PM to 7 PM

I can't believe we are approaching the end of January and Valentine's Day is right around the corner!!! While most retail florists prepare for this extremely busy day of sales I have the pleasure of celebrating Valentine's Day a little differently!!!!!

How? you ask . . once again Best Buds has the honor of partnering with The American Cancer Society Tamaqua & Surrounding Communities Relay For Life Campaign as we celebrate Valentine's Day featuring 300 Stems of Golden Flowers 'Magic Series Roses which we are offering for $5.00 plus tax for a single stem and $50.00 plus tax for a dozen! All roses MUST BE PRE-ORDERED. They are cash, carry & Pick-UP. The Event takes place on Friday, February 10, 2012 at my Garden Studio located at 2343 Neffs Laurys Road -- which we all know really isn't in Slatington but actually North Whitehall Township and the pick up time is from 3 PM until 7 PM. Arrangements can be made for other pick up hours by appointment if this time frame does not meet with your schedule. There will be an extra 'sweet' surprise that accompanies all orders!

Don't miss out on this great Fundraising Event -- last year Best Buds was able to donate $750.00 and we would like to do a repeat for our friends at the Cancer Society!

So tell your friends, your sweetie and anyone you would like to know about this wonderful cause and event!!! I can't wait to see all of you and am so excited to once again be able to share the LOVE & MAGIC OF VALENTINE'S DAY for such a worthy cause!

More 2012 Wedding Trends

Today I have been doing more homework for the upcoming 2012 Wedding Season Trends
. . .and truth be known the 2013 Trends are already being compiled!

Weddings are no different than the technology we use everyday with our computers, phones, tablets, etc. -- it is changing daily! So whether you want to be a trendsetter or timeless bride . . . there is a look and style for you.

This time of year is known for Bridal & Wedding Expos because during the holiday season 'The Love Bug' has been very busy bringing couples together who have decided to take the journey of a lifetime and now are ready to plan their Wedding. During consultations I'm asked what is 'hot and what is not' for the coming year. Well I can honestly say that after spending time today conducting my own 2012 Wedding Trend Research I have come away with this!

The 'talk' from one set of wedding floral designer experts is that this year we will see floral designs taking on a softer appearance -- the pastels will be back and be 'popped' with feathers, gems and all sorts of bling.

Someone else will use a system that puts bouquets into categories:
The Playful Bouquet which they describe as a kaleidoscope of colors that are playful and bright -- hot pink, bright yellows, blues, etc. and will break with tradition to convey an atmosphere of fun!

Next they list the Romantic Bouquet -- no need to give this one further explanation .. a picture is worth a thousand words . . .

Moving forward . . . we go to 'The Green Earth Friendly' Bouquet . . now this category does not just mean bouquets in the green palette, but also that the material used is grown organically/sustainably and incorporate elements of the Earth.

And last but not least is the category of 'The Passionate' bouquet. It has withstood the test of time -- a classic red rose bouquet that has always been a symbol of love and passion

As I researched on I found a floral designer school of thought that relied completely upon texture as the defining trend for 2012!

Not that there is anything wrong with this ... but to be fair ... on the other side of the 2012 predictors you will find that today's modern bride wants more -- they love a neutral palette that they can use to bring their personality and style into play with their color choices and I think you will continue to see bold colors especially since Pantone chose 'Tangerine Tango' as their color choice for 2012.

One thing is for certain in 2012 you can see the hand-tied bouquet remains the most popular choice!






Now one more 2012 Pearl! When it comes to trends we are going to see more lace and that Victorian & Vintage look will be a trendsetter this year, up and to including the shoes. Why? Well in 2011 we had some high profile Weddings that range from Kate Middleton to Kate Moss. Both of them were gorgeous in their classic styles.

But I think the most important thing to remember is that this is YOUR Wedding and your decisions should be based on what pleases you for your special day. If it's flip flops and sand castles on the beach then go for it. But whatever you decide make sure it makes you smile!

2012 Color Trends

Are you planning a Wedding or Special Event in 2012? Do you follow Fashion Color Trends? Well if the answer to each of these questions is yes . . then you may want to pay attention to Pantone's color choice for 2012 . . . 'Tangerine Tango'!

I love the name 'Tangerine Tango' . . . if any of you go to 'Zumba' classes . . well you may just want to stand up and start moving to the spicy beat of this hot color.

Now most of us associate shades of orange with Fall Events ... but this year I'm telling you that you are going to see this mood elevating color making it's appearance sooner than later in floral designs. Why you ask? Well, because it pairs beautifully with pinks, reds, purple and will bring that 'champagne pop' to the common colors you are accustomed to seeing during the February Valentine Season!

Still not sold on 'Tangerine Tango' . . . well stayed tuned for more updates and photos because 'Tangerine Tango' is going to sizzle!