It’s that time of year again! Here’s a little history behind it all…

When the first English settlers came to America, they discontinued the tradition of Mothering Day. While the British holiday would live on, the American Mother’s Day would be invented—with an entirely new history—centuries later. One explanation for the settlers’ discontinuation of Mothering Day was that they just didn’t have time; they lived under harsh conditions and were forced to work long hours in order to survive. Another possibility, however, is that Mothering Day conflicted with their Puritan ideals. Fleeing England to practice a more conservative Christianity without being persecuted, the pilgrims ignored the more secular holidays, focusing instead on a no-frills devotion to God. For example, even holidays such as Christmas and Easter were much more somber occasions for the pilgrims, usually taking place in a Church that was stripped of all extraneous ornamentation. –  Mother’s Day Central

To Order Flowers for Mom visit our Retail Site at http://leighflorist.biz/

US Government Adoption of Mother’s Day

In 1908 a U.S. Senator from Nebraska, Elmer Burkett, proposed making Mother’s Day a national holiday at the request of the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA). The proposal was defeated, but by 1909 forty-six states were holding Mother’s Day services as well as parts of Canada and Mexico.

Anna Jarvis quit working and devoted herself full time to the creation of Mother’s Day, endlessly petitioning state governments, business leaders, women groups, churches and other institutions and organizations. She finally convinced the World’s Sunday School Association to back her, a key influence over state legislators and congress. In 1912 West Virginia became the first state to officially recognize Mother’s Day, and in 1914 Woodrow Wilson signed it into national observance, declaring the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day. – Mother’s Day Central

According to About Flowers the most popular flowers for Mother’s Day are:

Popular colors for Mother’s Day include:
Pink is the traditional favorite for Mother’s Day flowers. Other colors to wow Mom this Mother’s Day include:

• Monochromatic (flowers in the same color)
• Blush pink, antique ivory and cream tones
• Hot pink and berry tones combined with shades of red

New emerging trend this year for Mother’s day are bold, vibrant and exciting color combinations, including:

• Hot pink and orange
• Citron and purple
• Shades of orange hues – tangerine to peach
• Purple accented with bright green
• Purple and lime green and magenta
• Pink, coral and turquoise together

Types of arrangements that are trendy:

• Monochromatic (flowers in the same color) floral arrangements
• Floral arrangements designed in baskets
• Strong botanical or color groupings surrounded by beautiful smaller flowers and foliage
• Natural, earthy and garden-style arrangements in vintage style glassware
• Soft and feminine mixed flower combinations
• Simple, monobotanical (one flower variety) designs in clear glass vessels

To Order Flowers for Mom visit our Retail Site at http://leighflorist.biz/

***AN IMPORTANT TIP:
Make sure you know where the flowers are coming from. There is a common assumption that flowers ordered online will arrive arranged in a vase. While many Internet companies put their orders though a local professional florist, some offer product “direct from the grower” and the flowers are boxed and must be processed (cut stems) and designed by the recipient.
If your expectation is give a gift of flowers that are professional designed and delivered to your Mom’s door or office, make sure you are ordering directly from a local florist, or from a website that puts the orders through a professional florist. To find a local florist, visitwww.nationalfloristdirectory.com.

Tip #1:  Don’t be focused on “matchy matchy” with a single color when it comes to your flowers.  Prom is supposed to be a fun event!   We encourage mixing up your colors to make a more lively and youthful corsage, boutonniere, and/or bouquet.

Tip #2:  Get creative with your design!  Instead of a usual “round” corsage or traditional boutonniere, bring your florist a picture of a uniquely shaped design.  Wire, ribbon, and jewels can be used in so many ways compared to the standard “old fashioned” way.

Tip #3:  Focus more on colors of flowers as opposed to exactly what particular flowers you would like in your prom flowers.  Choosing a lovely seasonal mix of flowers (in a style that you love) allows your florist to provide you with the color combination that you are looking for, and you will avoid limiting them to certain blooms that may not be availble in the proper colors.

Tip #4:  A fun twist on a boutonierre is a pocket square.  These lovely little creations sit right in the edge of the chest pocket of a man’s suit, and they look sharp!

Tip #5:  It is much easier, and less stressful on you and your date if you purchase your flowers from the same florist!  They will coordinate much better because the same people will be making both arrangements .

Tip #6: Florists that handle a lot of weddings are very experienced in hand work creations (boutonnieres, corsages, and bouquets).  So do some research to help you make a decision.

Tip #7: “Score points, guys! Bring a thoughtful bouquet for mom along with your date’s corsage! Girls, flowers for your mom to thank her are a nice touch, too!” – Prom Girl

Tip #8: Corsages generally range in price from $25 to $35 — sometimes more, depending on what size you would like and what accents you would like to add as well.

Tip #9 – If you would like to give your prom date something unique, think about other ways you can give prom flowers. Talk to your date to see if she would like her prom flowers strung together as a bracelet or necklace. A small, delicate flower such as the mini carnation works magic when used as a prom necklace or bracelet. If this is something that your date would like, take a ribbon, or material swatch, from your date’s dress to the florist so he or she can match the colors perfectly. – LifeTips, Prom Flower Tips

Tip #10: You should talk with your date about your prom flowers. Just as you want your prom dress and tuxedo to coordinate, your flowers should also be similar. The pair of you should talk with your local florist and bring him or her color samples so your prom corsage and boutonniere will match. A girl can bring in a ribbon that matches her dress and the boy can bring in his tie. Florists are more than happy to talk with you individually if you want your date’s flowers to be a surprise until promnight. – LifeTips, Prom Flower Tips

Tip #11 – If you are doing some research online, some guides will tell you to purchase your flowers up to 3 weeks in advance.  Personally for our shop, that’s not really necessary.  If you want to order in advance, you can call us just a week or two before the event.  Don’t wait too long though, if there is something special you have in mind, please do not wait until the day before the event.  Unfortunately if we need to special order anything, we will not be able to get it to the shop with that short of notice. – LifeTips, Prom Flower Tips

Tip #12: Tell your florist what your budget is and ask him or her for ideas. An inexpensive flower used in a lovely corsage style can be just as beautiful as a more expensive bloom. Alstroemeria and lilies are a good choices, as are mini carnations. But your florist will know what the best value is. – AboutFlowers.com

The bride and bridal party look gorgeous!  Hope you enjoy the photos!

MT.LAUREL – APRIL 3RD

 Mt.  Laurel, NJ — Brides Against Breast Cancer and their Nationwide Tour of Gowns will make a stop in Mt. Laurel, New Jersey, on Tuesday, April 3^rd at the Westin Hotel, 555 Fellowship Road, Mt Laurel.  Show hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. with a special “Pink Power Hour” first look from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.  There will be veil and tiara giveaways.

Known nationwide, Brides Against Breast Cancer contributes to programs and services offering support, education and hope to cancer patients and their families, according to Amy Paulishak, vice president, business development. “Our outreach and educational efforts around the country help ensure that people impacted by cancer are empowered by knowledge and strengthened by action,” she said.

Paulishak is a native of Moorestown, New Jersey, a graduate of Moorestown Friends School, and Rowan University in Glassboro, New Jersey.  She has many family members, classmates and teachers that have been affected by cancer.

“It is a privilege and honor to be involved with the national Brides program, because it allows me and others to give back, Paulishak said. “In South Jersey our local beneficiary is Camp No Worries of YMCA Burlington and Camden Counties, a summer camp for children affected with Cancer.

Wedding gown sales are an important fundraising program for Brides Against Breast Cancer.  “Our organization makes it possible for future brides around the country to purchase designer wedding gowns at dramatic savings,” said Paulishak. “Most gown prices range from $99 to $799, including hundreds of beautiful new name brand and designer gowns valued up to $8,000.”
Paulishak added that the worldwide support of designers, manufacturers, bridal shops – and women who donate one of their most treasured possessions – support the organization’s Nationwide Tour of Gowns sales. The proceeds from these events go directly to the services providing support, education and hope for those impacted by cancer.

“We are already receiving dozens of donated boxes filled with satin, beaded, tulle, and organza gowns in every shape and size,” she said. “New gowns and bridal accessories are arriving daily at Brides Against Breast Cancer, and we welcome every donation.” Gown and accessory donations are tax deductible.

Through its Nationwide Tour of Gowns, Brides Against Breast Cancer holds between 40-70 shows a year, with an average offering of 1,000 or more new or gently worn and designer dresses.  General admission is available, although a VIP admission ($20) gives attendees a sneak peak at the gowns during “Power Hour” and ability to buy first.  A seamstress is available on site for consultation.

“Exclusive designer and couture gowns are frequently available at great savings in our shows and locally as well,” Paulishak said, noting that a large number of the gowns presented at each event are brand new designer gowns donated by designers, manufacturers and bridal retailers.

To date, the Brides Against Breast Cancer™ program has received more than 50,000 wedding gown donations, with an estimated resale value of more than $4 million. This generous endowment is due in part to national media coverage, including magazine articles in Redbook, Family Circle, Woman’s Day, Martha Stewart’s Winter Wedding, Time, Philanthropy World and Modern Bride, along with appearances on Oprah Winfrey, CNN, MSNBC and hundreds of television and newspaper interviews.

For more information: www.bridesabc.org

Watch this video on YouTube.

As spring approaches, many people look forward to seeing the beautiful blooming cherry blossom trees.  This year actually marks the 100th Year Anniversary of the National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington D.C.  Here is a little history, thanks to D.C. Pages, about the origin and tradition behind this lovely piece of nature:

Washington, DC Cherry Blossoms

* Festival: March 20 – April 27, 2012

In 1912, Japan gave 3,020 cherry blossom trees to the United States as a gift to celebrate the two nations growing friendship. These trees replaced an earlier gift of 2,000 trees which were damaged and destroyed because of disease in 1910. These trees were planted around the shore line of the Tidal Basin in Washington, DC. In 1965, the gift was renewed with another 3,800 trees. The cherry blossom trees continue to be a popular tourist attraction when they reach full bloom in early spring.

In Japan, the flowering cherry tree or “Sakura,” as it is called by the Japanese people, is one of the most exalted flowering plants. The beauty of the cherry blossom is a potent symbol equated with evanescence of human life and epitomizes the transformations Japanese Culture has undergone through the ages. The date when the Yoshino cherry blossoms reach peak bloom varies from year to year, depending on weather conditions.

For the past century, people from all over the world have gathered in Washington, DC to welcome the arrival of spring and to share the special season with each other. This year the National Cherry Blossom Festival will last five weeks to celebrate the 100th year anniversary of the cherry blossom trees in Washington, DC. The splendid cherry trees, the focal point of the Cherry Blossom Festival, are constant reminders of the strong and enduring friendship between the United States and Japan.”

This Show is Fun and Fabulous, So We are Back by Popular Demand for our 4th Year!
Collingswood is an amazingly cool space! SIX local caterers will provide wonderful cuisine!!! Plus we will have signature cocktails and wedding cake, while our wedding experts will inform and inspire you with brilliant ideas to create your dream wedding day.

Watch this video on YouTube.

Lots of The Best Local NJ Vendors, PLUS FOOD FROM 6 CATERERS!
Amazing Entertainment and expert advice and tips!
Free on site Makeovers & Up-do Hair Trials
Special Deals and Discounts
Free Magazines and Impressive Prizes
Models in the Latest Designer Gowns & Tuxes
Don’t miss this intimate, upscale, and very special show! We expect to sell out.

Some features you will get at this show

Brides have made our events number one in South Jersey for more than 4 years! Come see why! The 4th annual bridal event at Collingswood Ballroom has it all. Fresh ideas to make your special day unique, unparralleled local vendors with no sales pressure, and tons of great free planning advice. Plus wedding cake samples, expert speakers to guide and inspire, free on-site makeovers and up-do hair trials, gorgeous gowns and designer tuxes, free bridal magazines, big discounts, giveaways and impressive prizes! Maximize your wedding plans in one afternoon. Tickets $10 at the door. See “Click Here for Special ticket offer” or call 610 917-9300 for discounted tickets.

Q. What do you love about being in the wedding and events industry?

A.  What can I say – I love to party : ) Seriously though, I do love how each wedding is so filled with raw emotion – from the laughing and the tears.  It’s a beautiful thing to see, and I love that I get a VIP pass to run around with the bride and see everything from the “front row” (so to speak).    I get to know my couples from our meetings and our engagement shoot together – so I feel invested in them.  I WANT them to have a wonderful wedding.  Watching my couples tie the knot makes me feel is a special day for me.  I wish I had started shooting weddings sooner : )

Q. what color bridal bouquets do you think photograph the best and why?

A.  Well, I’m a sucker for color so any sort of color, whether it’s bright and vibrant or soft and romantic, I love it all.  I used to work in a flower shop while I was in college, and I was utterly amazed at the variety of gorgeous flowers out there.  Some of my faves are the HUGE peonies, tiny ranunculus, black & white anemones, and who doesn’t like hydrangeas…come on.  The trend of having succulents in a bouquet is pretty awesome (wish I had thought of that when I was getting married : )

Q. Is it sometimes difficult to capture an all white bouquet against a white dress?

A.  Yes and no – there will always been some subtle difference – but the bouquet certainly won’t pop in the pictures.  Where there is color (even if it’s a very pastel bouquet) it can make a world of difference.  I also appreciate when a bride has a variety of flowers in her bouquet.  The different textures of the flowers can really add a lot to a photo.

Q.   I have been seeing a good amount of lighting in rooms, some colored some natural. What about candlelit rooms? LED lights etc.  What so you think is the best lighting for reception photos?

A.   Well – gorgeous sun light always wins for me hands down, but depending on the time of year the wedding is – candlelight can be very romantic – but you would definitely need a lot of candles…but the effect would be incredible!  I do love when a there is fun colored lights at at reception – makes the dancing look like fun.  But my favorite lighting at night would have to be the string of lights (large round bulbs).  I think it looks so festive (with a little vintage flair)

Q. How would you define your photography style for weddings?

A. Fun. Romantic. Modern.   Using a common setting to make something look extraordinary is always a fun challenge – but truthfully some of my favorite shots are the moments that I caught of something real – a real laugh, a real tear, that’s the good stuff.  I like to find a great spot with pretty light and let nature takes its course : )

Q. How far in advance should a client book their wedding photography?

A.   I like to say 9 months is a good average.  Some girls are far more prepared booking out more than a year in advance (I know I didn’t do that for my wedding).  While other brides are more “fly by the seat of their pants” and book with 6 months or less.  I just recommend any bride to think about what is the most important thing to them that day – and book that first (no matter what it is).

Q. Start to finish.. Client meeting to the finished  work!

How long does it take you to work on a wedding?

A.   My client meetings are very casual and can last between an hour or more if we’re chatty : )  Then we get to hang out and have some more fun during the engagement shoot which takes about 2 hours or so.  Each wedding is different (always a good workout though) then I spend time in my studio sorting through photos, processing, and all the other fun studio stuff.  I like to get my weddings done within 2-3 weeks from the day that I shot it.

Amie Schroeder  of  http://amieschroeder.com

Derouin predicts the appeal will begin with muted shades, such as mango, and “in time, we will see persimmon and pumpkin walking down the aisle.” For floral design in 2012, he anticipates seeing orange paired up with neutrals (whites, grays “and maybe green”) and that monochromatic palettes of peaches and oranges will be popular.

J Schwanke, AAF, AIFD, PFCI, expressed much enthusiasm for Pantone’s selection. “We have more pink and orange flowers than any other. And pink and orange look great together — analogous colors that make people feel friendly and happy!”

Customers who gravitate to classic, timeless looks will choose monochromatic orange designs, while those with a more casual taste will choose pinks, reds and yellows to go with “tangerine tango,” Schwanke said. People “who want to cause excitement” will choose blue or aqua to complement it. “The trend will lead us and all we have to do is follow — color wheel in hand — to create the necessary emotion for the particular event,” he said.

For more on “tangerine tango” and its influence on 2012 nuptials, see “Wedding Colors and Style Trends for 2012” by Carol Caggiano, AIFD, PFCI, on the Flower Factor blog.

Wedding Colors and Style Trends for 2012

by Carol Caggiano on January 10, 2012 at 9:45 am
As newly engaged couples anxiously plan their weddings, they look forward to see what is new for 2012. The modern bride wants her wedding to be a unique experience and she is searching for inspiration to achieve that goal which drives many of the trends we are seeing in the wedding market.
Photo courtesy www.pantone.com.
One of the most important choices a couple makes for their wedding day is color. The top 10 colors of 2012 from Pantone show direction toward a very vibrant palette lead by Tangerine Tango, a strong orange red. Roses, gerbera, stock, carnations, delphinium, asters and orchids just to name a few are all flowers available in these fashion-

forward hues and will be popular choices for this year’s floral bouquets.

• Bouquets will focus on texture while designed in a more relaxed style than the tight, compact bouquets popular in the past. Floral elements such a fern curls, echiveria and craspedia will offer diversity combined with more traditional blooms.
• Interest in the boutonnières for the gentlemen will continue to grow, making selections of unique designs of unusual materials popular. Emphasis on the men’s flowers will equal that of the choices for the ladies in the wedding party.

Lounge areas became very popular in 2011 and will continue to play a major role in 2012.

• Good lighting creates drama, introduces color and provides atmosphere. More and more focus will be placed on lighting in events and florals, professionally created, will add form, color and focal emphasis for the perfect look. Props such as chandeliers, shades and lamps are often added to further emphasize the lighting effects. Your florist will be able to help coordinate the right floral choices with your lighting needs.
• Lounge areas became very popular in 2011 and will continue to play a major role in 2012. Even smaller events will include areas for guests to visit with each other away from the formal table seating in a more casual setting. Rented furniture creates the space providing a unique and spontaneous look and casual arrangements of flowers add the finishing touch.
• Table sizes and shapes vary within the same event. Long banquet tables and rounds may be combined, as might ovals and squares. Table surfaces will be mixed as well. Linen covered for some and natural surfaces such as wood, glass or acrylic for others combined together in the same venue. Different style centerpieces are created for each table shape giving the overall look of the room a unique and exciting ambiance.

The possibilities are endless for today’s bride. Her personal style paired with event professionals can easily create the perfect wedding no matter what the budget. Start with your local florist. He can be a great resource for not only flowers but also other vendors to help your wedding to be everything you dreamed of. For more advice planning your wedding flowers and working with a professional florist, visit aboutflowers.com.