Tag Archive | holiday

Christmas Cactus

The unique tropical Christmas cactus has been kept as a beloved holiday houseplant since the 1800’s. It is quite a bit different from cacti that grow in the dessert, because it actually keeps its blooms longer in cooler temperatures, and even wilts if it does not get enough water! They are great in hanging baskets from the florist.

Schlumbergera truncata is the botanical name of the Christmas cactus. The name is derived from Frédéric Schlumberger, a well known Frenchman who collected cacti and grew them at his home. Flower shops have many colors to embrace such as red, fuscia, pink, purple, orange and crème, the flowers of the Christmas cactus are pleasant indeed.

As for the “Christmas Tree”… Pine and fir trees are evergreens found in cold climates, and these generally are used as Christmas trees. They bring people comfort from the cold harsh winter. However, since some countries like Africa and Australia have hot dry conditions, nature does not provide pine and fir trees. So the custom of decorating the Christmas cactus as Christmas tree came into being. They decorate the Christmas cactus just as we would, having the best of both worlds with ornaments and flowers!

Here is a neat article from HGTV on these delightful plants: http://www.hgtv.com/decorating/getting-the-best-out-of-your-holiday-plants/index.html

Flowers by the Falls . Kings Mountain, NC (704) 739-7331

Flower Ornaments & Wreaths for Christmas

Dec13

Who doesn’t love decorating for the holidays! Strolling through town in the cool air, with lights everywhere just gets you right in the spirit. At home, most like to decorate the Christmas tree with all of their favorite ornaments. To switch it up a bit, they may even go a little crazy by using colored lights instead of the white lights from year before. How about something new though?

Consider a creative spin from the bridal bouquet balls that hang from ribbon, by decorating with fresh flowers! Adult pomanders or kissing balls is what they are often called, and a miniature version of these truly makes a fashion statement and a fantastic ornament! Have the flower shop design with red roses for instance, chrysanthemums, carnations or even holly, depending on your style. For fun, to add even more personality, these of course can hang from any type of ribbon or beads you desire! String them across your favorite window, hang them from the mantle, add them into the tree, or even mix them into your centerpiece table arrangement on Christmas day. These will have your friends & family smitten.

Flower wreaths need not be forgotten, as they are just as visually stunning as any other Christmas decoration. Who says these can only be used at weddings, to hang on trees & reception doors. Would you not rather spend the money with your florist to enjoy them for the holiday season as opposed to just one day wedding day? Red roses & poinsettias are undoubtedly the favorites, but there are many flower combinations that lend themselves to this idea. Here is a blog that has several beautiful flower wreaths: http://thefrenchsampler.blogspot.com/2010/12/christmas-flowers.html Fresh flower wreaths are great to hang on your front door or dining room area, and are especially great over the headboard of your bed.

Flowers by the Falls . Kings Mountain, NC (704) 739-7331

Flowers for Thanksgiving

Nov18

The winter holidays are right around the corner, and it is time to start thinking about how to make this Thanksgiving just a little more special than the last. As we gather together in fellowship, like the Pilgrims first did, we give thanks to God for his many blessings.

A warm, inviting environment is a sure way to encourage great conversation and laughter! An elegant table setting with a mixture of a few staple items from the cupboard will do quite well, so no need to go out and spend a fortune. Mix and match plates and linens into your design until you get a nice color palette. Then layer in some fresh flowers from your florist for an extra special touch.

Arrangements with orange roses, red berries and mums will look fabulous, and be sure to keep them low on the table so guests can still see each other. Flower shops can also do individual arrangements at each person’s seat which will also be fun, as an alternative to doing centerpiece arrangements. That way each person can have flowers to take home with them! To view even more ideas, take a look at this website http://designtrendsblog.com/thanksgiving-table-setting-and-centerpiece-ideas-229

Friends and family will feel so welcome and loved by your extra effort. Just add in and an abundance of food, a nice toasty fire and everyone will be well on their way to a very memorable Thanksgiving!

Flowers by the Falls . Kings Mountain, NC (704) 739-7331