Anne Paterson's Flowers

It's almost Valentine's Day and

2012-01-31T21:52:00.000-07:00

you know what that means: On February 14, millions of tiny naked boys with wings will shoot arrows of love down from the heavens into the shoulders of mere mortals like ourselves. It means: pull out the stops and gather all manner of paraphernalia in your endeavor to celebrate The One You Adore! Chocolate! Stuffed bears! Flowers! And don't forget a Hallmark Card, since Hallmark invented this holiday in the first place, right?

Actually, contrary to popular belief Hallmark did not invent Valentine's Day. While it's true that since 1913, when Hallmark Cards of Kansas City, Mo., began mass producing valentines, February has never been the same, the beginnings of this tradition precede the Industrial Revolution, the Renaissance, and even the Dark Ages. To find the origins of Valentine's Day, which are not as syrupy as you might think, we date back to Ancient Rome.

The people of Ancient Rome celebrated a festival between February 13-15 called Lupercalia with the intention to avert evil spirits and purify the city, thus fostering both health and fertility. But while the Romans were romantic, they were also drunk, and also naked, claims Noel Lenski, a historian at the University of Colorado at Boulder. Their rituals, although well-meaning, began with the sacrifice of a goat and a dog, and then women would line up waiting for their turn to get whipped with the animals the men had just slain. It was their belief that this would make them fertile. This festival also included a kind of matchmaking lottery, in which men would choose at random a woman's name from a jar. The pair would then be coupled for the duration of the festival, and longer if the match was right.

Our favorite Valentine's icon Cupid can also be traced back to this period, as the son of Venus (Goddess of Love) and Mars (God of War). This God of Desire was a prominent figure in Latin literature, playing instigating roles in several myths and scenarios. Further, the Roman emperor Claudius II executed two men, both named Valentine, on February 14 of different years in the third century AD. These executions may or may not be responsible for our modern holiday's name.

It was not until centuries later that the holiday was sweetened by Chaucer and also Shakespeare, who both romanticized it in their work. It gained popularity in Britain and throughout Europe during the Middle Ages, along with Cupid, who under Christian influence became a symbol of both Heavenly and Earthly love. At this time, handmade paper cards were the ultimate token of celebration, after the advent of mass paper production around 1100AD. It was not until the 1800s that factory-made cards were introduced to Europe and the New World, better known as America, and it was not until 1913 that Hallmark pushed their brand of Valentines into the hands and hearts of lovers everywhere.

I've never been a big fan of cutesy rhyming verse, but if I had to choose between Hallmark poems and being beaten with an animal corpse by a man who may or may not pull my name out of a jar and become my husband, I would choose the former. I feel very grateful that the latter is not part of cultural protocol these days because the timeless, sacred poetry of nature has always struck me as the best messenger. Whether we take into account all the myriad folkloric meanings of flowers or not, the twist and lilt of a bunch of tulips or the intelligent and exacting spiral of a rose's petals will say more to me in one instant than a hundred Hallmark cards. Flowers say I Love You the best because they don't need to say anything at all: they already are love, plain and simple.

2 dozen roses with cymbidium orchids

Valentine's Day is Tuesday February 14, 2012. Trust your I Love You into our capable hands. We'll put something together for your sweetheart that would make anyone speechless.

From all of us at Anne Paterson's, WE LOVE EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU
XOXOXOXOX

The Essence of Flowers according to Dr Bach

2012-01-25T10:09:00.000-07:00

Flowers make us feel good. They're beautiful, they smell delicious, and they bring the crisp, uncomplicated joy of nature with them wherever they go. Everyone knows flowers are a feast for the eyes, nose, and heart, but British researcher and physician Dr. Edward Bach proved that flowers can restore and maintain perfect health in all of us.

Close-up of a signature arrangement from Anne Paterson's Flowers

Dr. Bach developed his flower essences in the late 1920s and early 1930s based on his firm belief that "we each have a Divine mission in this world, and our souls use our minds and bodies as instruments to do this work, so that when all three are working in unison the result is perfect health and perfect happiness." He asserted that a negative mind-state is at the core of all illness: "It is not possible for us to be ill unless we are not in harmony with our true nature." To treat the bodily symptoms of that illness alone is not sufficient. In other words, the whole body/mind/spirit complex must be brought into balance for deep healing to occur.

He gave up his lucrative western medical practice and went to the the English countryside to begin work on a more holistic system of medicine. There, he intuited that the dew on the plants, heated by the sun, held all the healing properties of the flowers it laid upon. As he continued, his intuition became so sensitive that simply by holding or tasting a plant, he immediately knew its healing properties. In this way, he developed, one by one, the 38 flower essences that are known today as the Bach Flower Essences.

While the Bach Flower Essences (BFEs) work on the same basic principle as the more commonly known healing technique Aromatherapy (the use of essential oils--potent aromatic substances extracted from all fragrant plants--for physical and emotional healing), there are two major differences: BFEs are generally taken internally while essential oils are normally applied to the body or used to fragrance the air; and essential oils can be used to treat symptoms as well as to promote positive qualities, while the BFEs, like any other medicine prescribed by a doctor, cannot be used simply to promote the positive but must be used to balance the negative state that those essences address.

Unsurprisingly, there is a significant correlation among the folkloric meanings of flowers and their healing properties of their corresponding Bach Flower Essences. Clematis, for instance, is said to signify ingenuity, and its Essence balances excessive daydreaming and lack of concentration by enabling people to express their artistic and creative gifts in practical and material ways. Honeysuckle symbolizes the bond of love. Its Essence enables one who is lost in nostalgia to release their dwelling on old memories and go out to develop new relationships and interests, making life meaningful and vital again. Gentian's meaning is, literally, I look to heaven, and its Essence vibrates to the frequency of faith, melting away feelings of discouragement brought on by life's numerous setbacks and delays. Stars of Bethlehem signify reconciliation, perhaps between one person and another or perhaps between one part of the self and another. It's Bach Flower Essence is useful for restoration and the release of any trauma from cellular memory so that healing can occur.

This correspondence is present in flower meanings and their aromatherapeutic essential oils also. Chamomile, for instance, which is said to hold the meaning of Energy in Action, helps as essential oil to overcome oversensitivity, stress, anxiety, hysteria, insomnia, suppressed anger, and hyperactivity; and it also treats physical symptoms like PMS, menstrual pain, ulcers, and light constipation, helping to unblock energy and ensure its smooth movement through the body. Neroli (orange blossom) essential oil is often used as an aphrodisiac. The orange blossom carries meanings of fruitfulness, marriage, and eternal love. The rose, paragon of beauty, virtue and love, in essential oil form helps to rejuvenate cells, heal all complexion types, and slow aging. It further promotes self-confidence, and is useful for treating relationship conflicts, envy, and intolerance. The Wild Rose Bach Flower Essence vibrates to the frequency of inner motivation and assists with the realization that we can always use the power of choice to change our lives for the better.

Does this mean we have to run out and buy all kinds of ointments and tinctures in order to receive all the rejuvenative benefits of flowers? Definitely not. All the healing properties of flower essences are often present simply in their very symbolism. Flowers have an aromatherapy all their own, elevating mood and inducing cheerfulness. Further, each flower, according to its colour, will also affect different aspects the body/mind/spirit based on the ancient Eastern philosophy that our bodies contain and emanate seven wheels of energy known as chakras:

One of the easiest ways to bring an energy centre into balance is with colour, and the easiest ways to integrate colour into daily life are with diet, wardrobe, decor, and flowers.

So the next time you want to pick up a few blooms for someone you love, someone you want to apologize to, someone you want to forgive, or even for yourself, you'll know there's more to knowing that flowers make us feel good than meets the eye. Flowers have the power to heal in many ways. But don't get too caught up in particulars, (What does this flower mean? What does it do? How is it going to affect my reproductive system?) just let your inner wisdom guide you. Choose what you naturally gravitate to. The power of intuition is strong, and if we trust it, we can rest assured we'll pick out just the right remedy for any occasion.

Additional reading and information:
Eastern Body, Western Mind: Psychology and the Chakra System as a Path to the Self
Natural Wisdom & Know-How: Useful Practices, REcipes, and Formulas for a Lifetime of Health
The History and Language of Flowers
The Original Bach Flower Remedies

Bringin' back the Carnation- January's Flower

2012-01-15T21:27:00.000-07:00

I've got to tell you (being a florist for more years than I am old), carnations have always been a dirty word in my vocabulary. But there is something to be said about making something "old" new again, and I am growing in my love affair with this little beauty. Carnations have a lasting power like no other and the varieties, shades and tones now available are breathtaking, not to mention their unique and wonderfully spicy scent. Now don't get me wrong, you are not going to see carnations in every arrangement that leaves our store, in fact they are still rare. In my view the carnation should only be used en masse, no "onesies, twosies" designing with carnations for me! For these flowers to really shine, my preference is to see them en masse, where their ruffly, fringed edges are bumping up next to one another like shy tweens at there first school dance! It's in a group that they radiate and glow!

quicksand rose, echeveria, scabiosa pods, brezillia, brunia, astrantia and the antiqua carnation

Today seemed like as good a day as any to celebrate the New Carnation; after all it is January's flower!!

New Beginings- Forgetting the past and pressing toward the things yet unseen! Happy New Year!!

2012-01-01T11:34:00.002-07:00

Happy New Year everyone! What better way to ring in 2012 than to start fresh? Feels kind of like a bed with crisp, clean sheets! Is there anything that feels better?
There is a freedom in just surrendering to the present moment, letting go of the past and pressing on into the mystery of the unknown... It is true liberation to experience the present and anticipate and lean into the future. I am excited.

Wheatfield with Cypresses, Vincent Van Gogh, 1889

We have this amazing Cypress in the store...it is full of life and essence! I decided I would research the plant that I had admired so much over the Christmas season to see what I could find. Turns out the Cypress has intrigued many over the centuries. It's the most photographed tree in the world and Van Gogh included Cypresses in many of his paintings. The tree also has many deep cultural significances, which I found very interesting.

Langlois Bridge, Vincent Van Gogh, 1888

The Cypress is considered by many to mean death and rebirth, which seems like an apt thing to ponder during this season of new beginnings. In Greek mythology, it was believed that the Cypress grew out of the grief of a teenager who accidentally killed a deer that belonged to Apollo. It was out of this poor boy's sorrow that the legend of the young Cyparissus is brought to life. Through his sadness and mourning, Cyparissus' body was transformed into the tall, strong and noble looking Cypress tree. I love the imagery of this story and somehow it gives me hope. Out of his despair, he was transformed and brought back to life with a strong presence for many generations to come. He gave up all that he was and was made something new!
In the Christian tradition, the Cypress is a symbol of death, and signifies the heavens calling. With its column-like shape that reaches toward the heavens, much like a church spire, the Cypress has deep-rooted relationship with the heavenly realm and divine light. The evergreen leaves have become a symbol of resurrection and new life.

Starry Night, Vincent Van Gogh, 1889

In Turkey, the Cypress is the symbol of the universe. Its roots, tall trunk and upward branches represent the three levels of life: birth, midlife and the attainment of heaven, with the evergreen leaves representing immortality.
To the people of Iran, the Cypress symbolizes many attributes of beauty and form. Persian poets would make reference to loved ones as being "Cypress-like." For them, this term perfectly described a woman's grace in motion, slender body and balanced, poised frame. The Cypress represented youthfulness, truthfulness and was also used to describe a person of upright character. It is said that in the presence of a Cypress, it would be impossible for someone who breathes in its scent to be deceitful. Mystics have believed that because the Cypress is an evergreen and that its branches are never barren, it is truly liberated and liberating: perfection without desolation.

I will forever look at the sweet sights and smells of the Cypresses that enter my store in a new and magical way. It will forever be a testament and symbol of death, birth and transformation, and I love that when I take in its amazing scent I can be reminded that I truly can trust myself and live in the abundance of that freedom!

May 2012 and the symbols of the Cypress bring you focus on the new beginnings that await you. May you surrender to the present, and to all that the future has in store for you! May you all experience life anew; put the past behind you and lean upwards, like the branches of the cypress towards a new life or a new way to live. Remember that the divine resides within you and that deceit can not exist in presence of the divine! May the knowledge of that profound fragrance impact you in a deep and meaningful way! Happy New Year!! And here's to an exciting and wonderful 2012!!

If you are interesting in learning more interesting things about the Cypress, please peruse these great sites that I got some of my information from:
The Meaning Behind Cypress Trees
What is the Symbolism of the Cypress Tree?
20/20 Site, Cypress Tree

Celibrating Christmas Green!- sustainable succulent ornaments

2011-11-26T21:22:00.001-07:00

We have had fun today decorating our Citron Cypress with our environmentally friendly little succulent ornaments. They are so cute and is the perfect gift for the environmentally conscious person on your list. These little gems will last through the whole holiday season and once Christmas is gone you can place them on top of soil and they will root into the earth and live on and on.

I adore the natural look of these ornaments and love the fact that they will live on well past the holiday season. What a fun and fabulous way to decorate your home for the holiday.

I also am tickled with the idea of using the Cypress as a living Christmas tree for the holiday season and then being able to enjoy it as a stunning house plant all year round. The contrast of the two greens is so fresh and revitalizing. The Cypress also have a natural aromatherapy that is light and refreshing and adds to the atmosphere for this festive season!

On the light and whimsical side, it makes me think of Charlie Brown and his Christmas tree and who doesn't love that?! So here is to the beginning of the Holiday Season, may you embrace all the the Christmas season offers!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2011-11-18T20:52:00.001-07:00

Sad Songs Make You Cry

2011-11-03T12:09:00.000-06:00

"I just realized everything I have will someday be gone." The country song, Never Grow Up has been playing through my head, on repeat, for the last few days. Those are sad words aren't they?

It is that time of year again; the seasons of life are changing... it always makes me a little sad. I hear the gust of wind and I see the effects of their force. I look at the row of aspens in my back yard, in one afternoon storm they where striped barren of the beautiful leaves that once coloured their tips so bright. Just a few short days ago I admired the contrast of those vibrant yellow leaves against the intense blue of the sky, how radiant they were... and now they're gone. My aspens have been striped back, they stand naked and vulnerable and have no say in the way nature takes its course.

I think what we see in nature can reflect our own sense of loss. Seeing it through the lens of my aspens makes the reality within me that much more real and I can't deny it's existence Left with a feeling of loss and a sadness that rips to the heart, I am left barren, stripped back, vulnerable and with little control.

So I admit I am sad, melancholy, tired and a bit lifeless. I long for something more; but I don't have the faintest idea how to make "it" happen. Our culture is so uncomfortable with the emotion of sadness. We try with all our might to somehow make it disappear, to eradicate it; or at the very least sanitize it and clean it up a bit. It is a messy emotion; we put on masks, we numb, we laugh it off, we fake it. We have even sanitized a funeral; it is now called a celebration of life. But in all our attempts, our sadness and loss still finds its way to the surface.

I think that if we give our self permission to sit in our sadness (no not depression), there is something there for us; a gift in disguise perhaps? Even in the sadness, in the dark and lonely place, creeps a very real and haunting beauty.

Now don't get me wrong when I am sad, anyone who has had the privilege of seeing my sadness in action will tell you straight up "it ain't pretty!!" I don't go down without a fight. My tears, once they start, flow out of my control. Oh but yes I fight it, every step of the way with a face that contorts with every muscle trying its hardest to hide and conceal my hurt and pain. This of course only creates a much larger mess and my face is anything but beautiful! I always am a bit envious of those few who seem to radiate something beautiful even when they cry; but I guarantee you I am not so blessed!

So where does this haunting beauty and hidden gift I speak of come from? What lessons have I learned for this lonely place? When I sit with my sadness, it reveals a heart that longs for more, I see the things I value and care the most about. It reveals my heart, and the longings and desires that I so seldom dare to explore.

My hope is that we can all carve out some time to explore and mine the depths of our sadness to reveal and learn from the things we have lost. Take a new look at nature, listen to some music that moves you, look at some art that stirs the emotion and see what things bubble up from within. Get comfortable with your discomfort... its ok, you are human and not alone!

all photos taken by my sweet friend Kezia!

Passion for Flowers TED's Way! Beauty and Seduction

2011-10-26T19:42:00.000-06:00

I was sharing with a client my wonder of nature and how it seems to capture me in new ways everyday. She suggested a few TED talks, which I loved! I share these videos with you today in hopes you experience the same awe it created in me. Some truly amazing videos!!

The impressions they left with me were wide and varied. From beauty and seduction, to life and death and living. The connection we have with nature; the reminder that we have a responsibility to care and protect the things we fall in love with (our earth). These videos evoke a love story about a planet that does not last forever and has a need for transformation and new beginning.

Such beauty deserve our humble admiration; to stop and look, appreciate and take the time to care, sustain and respect all that we have been called to be good stewards of.

So please watch and let these videos begin to do the work of transformation in you. May we all take a look at the small things we can do to be responsible lovers of this world!

Here's Jonathan Drori enthusiastically speaking of The Beautiful Tricks of Flowers - the highly specialized and complex interrelation of plants and insects. As beautiful as we think flowers are, Drori shows us how insects see it.

And Louie Schwartzberg shows some truly beautiful images of "the mystical moment where life regenerates itself" with excerpts from his film in: The Hidden Beauty of Pollination

Art Forms in Nature- Ernst Haeckel

2011-10-16T17:56:00.000-06:00

Nature always has been something that truly inspires me. This week the discovery of Ernst Haeckel's Art Forms in Nature has me bursting at the seams to share these fascinating images with you all. I have been totally captivated and humbled by the perfect beauty that nature effortlessly offers anyone who takes the time to really look! The symmetry and detail in the designs Haeckel has captured makes me weak at the knees!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trachylina

This all started after we had received some Lichen branches in the store and I fell in love with their intricate branching beauty. A google search brought me to the image below...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lichen

Again I was blown away by the intense detail and charm, and was so grateful Haeckel took the time to capture these images for all to enjoy. Lichen is nature's very own essential lace, and I was dazzled by realization anything we can create, nature has already done repeatedly and more elegantly than we could even imagine. The patterns, harmony and textures are all around us and I am saddened at times by how few people even notice it's there.

My hope is this post will open your eyes, inspire you to rediscover the living beauty that is all around you. Take it in deeply. May it put a huge smile on your face and gratitude in your heart. It did for me.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tubularia

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conifer

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ascidian

Beauty in Imperfection

2011-10-09T17:37:00.002-06:00

True beauty is not found in perfection; but taking the time to look deep into imperfection and finding beauty in what is.

Thankgiving, gratitude and a time to harvest!!

2011-10-08T21:12:00.000-06:00

Gathered around the table with our loved ones for Thanksgiving dinner, we often pause for a moment of silent gratitude for the abundance and richness in our lives. A wordless moment can often express more than words ever could. So today, no more words, just a moment to share with you some harvest beauty, and a chance to say thank you - to all of you, for all of the richness you have shared.

Fall Flower Give Away- we have a winner!!

2011-10-01T10:05:00.000-06:00

A big thank you to all who participated in our Fall Flowers Give Away! It was great to hear all that you love about fall! The winner is @roopakhanna, from Twitter! Congratulations!! Hope you all get to enjoy the sights, sounds and flavours of the season on this glorious fall Saturday!

Anne Paterson's Flowers: Fall Friday Giveaway Draw!!

2011-09-28T06:15:00.000-06:00

Anne Paterson's Flowers: Fall Friday Giveaway Draw!!: We love Autumn here at Anne Paterson's Flowers! Let me (Elli) tell you a bit about what I love about fall, and then we want to hear from yo...

Fall Friday Giveaway Draw!!

2011-09-27T22:17:00.000-06:00

We love Autumn here at Anne Paterson's Flowers! Let me (Elli) tell you a bit about what I love about fall, and then we want to hear from you - it could win you a glorious fall themed bouquet. Read on...

quicksand rose, helaborus, dusty miller and dahlias

I love the sound of the leaves crunching when I walk. The misty foggy skies in the evening when the air is cool. I adore fall fashion with all its textures and colours, boots, hats and scarfs! Autumn cooking and baking; rich thick soups and spicy warm desserts....

Oh my, what is there not to love about this season!? I could go on and on but I really want to hear from you! Please share what you love about this season: leave a message below, or on our facebook page, or tweet us up until Friday evening and Saturday morning we'll add your name to a draw to win your very own fall bouquet from Anne Paterson's Flowers.

We want to share a little bit the the autumn bounty we get to enjoy here each day. All you have to do is share with us what you love about fall. It's that easy!

Sweaping through September

2011-09-25T18:58:00.000-06:00

Well this week has been an absolute whirlwind and I honestly have no idea where September has gone! All I can say is I have been flying by the seat of my pants all month, but it has been a fun and fierce ride!

I continue to be inspired by the abundance of colour and textures that the fall season has to offer. So I will offer you some eye candy of some of the designs that left the store this past week.

If these pieces don't excite you about the fall season I am not sure much could! I adore this season and all the flowers colours and textures that come with it! Now I think it may be time to go for a walk and hear the sound of the crunching leaves under my feet, it has been a long week!

The Magic of Love

2011-09-18T17:43:00.000-06:00

There’s something special about life in a flower shop, you become a part of people’s lives – the courtships, the triumphs, the sorrows, the celebrations …and especially the love. A shop with a history as long as Anne Paterson’s also gets to see those lives grow and celebrate new milestones.

Patience (David Austin Rose), Arabicum Ornithonigalum, Buplurum, Lisianthus, Varigated Pitt., White Nerine Lily,
Queen Annes Lace

Something magical happens here when the shop is brimmingwith wedding arrangements, somehow the store itself gets filled with love. Italways makes me a little dreamy as my hands turn the flowers into bouquets and boutonnières,especially when what we’re creating is for someone in the Anne Paterson’s “family.”

When these beautiful David Austin roses first came into thestore, they were pretty, but with each passing day their true beauty isrevealed; it takes time for you to really see all that they are. Their sweetfragrance grabs hold of you and you are changed. Weddings are like that: there’sso much beauty and love in the room, and yet just the beginning of a beautifulunfolding. An everlasting journey of growth and discovery, each person blossomingand seeing the beauty revealed in the other, change by a life of love.

So much as these lovely flowers add to this specialoccasion, the real beauty filling the room is the love overflowing andflooding over everyone when the bride and groom come through the doors. I take great pride and joy in being a part ofso many special days, I get a little misty watching that love blossom and growwith each passing year.

And so tonight, I lift a glass to Alexis and Matthew!Wishing you many years of love and happiness together! May your love overflowand touch the lives of others, and like the scent of those David Austin roses,leave them changed by the beauty of it.

And always remember the Magic of Love ...forever unfolding, foreverchanging those it touches.

Fall Floral Frenzy- colour trends

2011-09-11T12:36:00.000-06:00

I may have mentioned it before but this is my favorite time of year to design! The rich warm colours and amazing texture nature provides us is so inspiring. With my mind on the colour trends for fall 2011 I came up with a couple designs I love.

Scabiosa pods, brunia, kale, antiqua carnation, and the cool water rose

I love this palette of plums, greys, coppers and natural green, and of course you know I adore playing textures! I even used carnations, or as I like to call then Dianthus ( it just makes me feel better). I have to admit with the fun colours now available to carnations I may even start carrying them in the store! What do you think, do you loves these beauties?

Asclepia, Brazillia, Scabiosa Pods, Echenachea, Nandina, Green Heather Sessilaflora, and Hosta leaves

This bouquet moves in the coral, peach, bronze and copper tones and looks great against turquoise shades. Are you beginning to see why I love fall! Glorious!! One of my favourite colour palettes for weddings right now is yellows and greys... I'll be snapping and posting photos of that soon!

There are some great resources out there if you want to delve a little more deeply. One of the best places for colour inspirations I've found is Pinterest. Chrissy's The Perfect Pallette site I could have ogled for hours! Have a look and tell me your favorite colour palettes and I'll see if I can do some designs to showcase the colour options. Chrissy also has an amazing blog if you are looking for inspiration for your wedding day, or if you just adore colours like I do.

Jane Packer is a floral designer from the UK I have admired since the beginning of time and her website showcases some lovely fall combinations.

My Personal Artist offers a wedding sketchbook and yet another lovely blog for the colour enthusiast.

And of course, Pantone are the colour experts of the world and an invaluable resource for wedding inspiration.

Enjoy! And I hope you are enjoying the sight, sound and flavours of this fall season.

The Fall Season and all new beginings!

2011-09-05T09:59:00.001-06:00

Today is my youngest son's birthday and I can smell the spice cake cooking in the oven. Oh the sweet smells of the autumn season. The air is cool and crisp in the morning air and the birds are still chirping and happy. The house is still quiet and I think back to the days when Micah was a baby. So much has changed. I would not be experiencing this kind of quiet back then! That boy developed good lungs at an early age!! Now he is well on his way to manhood and loves the adventures of the outdoors. I will be lucky to entice him into the house with the sweet fragrance of his favorite cake...just long enough to sing happy birthday, share a few laughs and he will likely dash back outdoors where he feels most at peace. So on this quiet September morning I take some time to reflect on the joys of being a Mom and happy to know my boy is adventurous, strong, wise and brave! Happy sixteen, Micah! I love you! Glad we were able to float the Bow together and that I had the joy of watching you bring in the fish!! Sweet memories! Mmmmm and looking forward to eating and sharing this cake with you too!

Fairwell August, Hello Autumn...we do love you, ... parting is bitter sweet

2011-08-30T23:58:00.001-06:00

I do so love the summer month! The heat, the sunshine, the local blooms!! Such a time of celebration, but I have to admit there is something about fall that I relish. It is by far my favorite season to design in. The rich colours, the warmth, the textures, oh ya I love it. The cool crisp clean feel of the air in the early morning is fresheshing and invigorating.

We are definately seeing the flowers of the fall season in the store and I am exciting about the design season that is ahead...For now I am knee deep in counting inventory for our year end and the store is getting a thourgh and well needed cleaning. I will be happy when August 31st is complete and we can move on to an excite new year for the store, with new product arriving very soon. So a toast to fall design time and another year at Anne Pat's that has come to a close! Thanks for being apart of our journey!

"Went to a Garden Party-reminisce with my old friends"

2011-08-20T23:08:00.000-06:00

Something about summertime takes you back in time, and I do love garden parties!! So much changes with time and then there is so much that just stays the same. All the things that I loved to do as a child, footloose and fancy free are the same things my boys are enjoying today. Spending their days down by the river, splashing in the water, skipping rocks and wasting the day away with the laughter and joy of friends!!

A large part of me is jealous that I can't join in on their fun, but then I think back to my own memories of summertime and glad that I have them.

And if a girl has to work, I count myself blessed to be surrounded by the beauty of nature and a store that has french doors that open up wide to the clear blue sky!!

And Saturdays are magical days at the store, people are relaxed happy and the environment is light and easy. Saturdays at Anne Pat's have become my favorite day of the week!! ... "N' it's alright now, I've learned my lesson well!!"

Oh, and tomorrow is +30 degrees so I may just have to turn up the toons and have my own garden party with friends. Not too many more days left of this summer to enjoy, I will take whatever comes my way!!

Peaches n' Greens

2011-08-18T19:40:00.002-06:00

Green Antique Hydrangea, Peach Gloriosa, Coral Dahlia, and Peach Roses

Last weekend one of my brides did a peaches n' green theme wedding and in the creative process I was transported back in time. Sun filled days of laughter and love spent in the enchanting home of my sweet Auntie Anne and Uncle Al's in Kelowna, BC. There is nothing quite so satisfying as a nice bowl of peaches and cream sprinkled lightly with sugar fresh from the local farm. Making this bouquet was as if the sweet smell of peaches drifted in the air...and the flavours burst into life on my tongue.

Think it is time to get me some peaches n' cream!! Hope you are all enjoying the fruits of your own labours this summer, in whatever form it comes in.

The Garden Wedding- using clematis vine, how fine!

2011-08-13T15:14:00.002-06:00

What better way to have a garden wedding than to use some elements from your own garden. These little clematis vines were the perfect addition to our bride Michelle bridal bouquet. The deep royal purple clematis vine completed this bouquet to the classic beauty that is. I love when a good thing falls into place; this little unexpected addition thrilled my bride!

Summer Luv

2011-08-08T15:36:00.001-06:00

What better time to celebrate, life, love and happiness that summer. Congratulations goes out to so many that embrace all that this life has to offer. Once the month of August hits I tend to start the grieving process that "summer is almost over". This year I am making a conscious effort to embrace each day for all that it is and not take one moment for granted...I am going to suck every ounce out of the sunshine that comes my way and try to share it with as many as possible.

Hope these florals remind you that there is still a lot of summer to enjoy! Soak it all in and don't forget to offer some of it back to others...a little ray of sunshine can go a long ways...flowers have a way of reminding me of this. What are some ways you are celebrating summer?

Locally grown and Edible Blooms- what a concept!!

2011-08-04T19:55:00.000-06:00

With flowers being so beautiful and now locally available there are fun options available for garnishing dishes and cake as well. I saw a great clip on sustainable organic edible flowers that totally inspired me. Check out the link: http://www.youtube.com/embed/sz0dxa21x1A . It is so exciting to see people passionate about natural, locally grown product and exciting to see how flowers can be used to enhance a meal.

I do love the concept of mixing flowers with a meal...adding to the beauty by way of more that just one of our senses. No denying the visual appeal of a flower, but add the unexpected pleasure that they can create to your taste and that is exciting.

lavender, thyme, dill, cilantro, day lily, squash blossom, Nasturtiums, chives, and basil

photo provided by http://whatscookingamerica.net/EdibleFlowers/EdibleFlowersMain.htm

After doing just a little bit of research there is quit an abundance of edible flowers, but you need to know there are many flowers that are also highly toxic and poisonous. Make sure you do your research before experimenting with eating flowers and never eat any flowers that are not organic and pesticide free!

I will pass along a few site that were great that got into the art of using and applying floral blooms to your recipes or to be used as garnish. There are so many unique flavours that different blooms will give. Anything from a delicate floral taste of the lavender, to a more pepper flavour of a carnation petal. Other flavours include spicy, bitter, tangy, lemony, mild vegetable and even some that have a licorice or anise taste. Flowers can be used to lightly flavour wines, vinegars and can be added to that special something, to a delightful salad or to make a cake scream for that extra attention. Flowers are fun, beautiful, flavourful and fragrant...guess just another reason why they are considered sensual!

Here is a couple links that I found that were incredibly informative:

http://homecooking.about.com/library/weekly/blflowers.htm

http://whatscookingamerica.net/EdibleFlowers/EdibleFlowersMain.htm

I would love to hear how you have used flowers to add a special touch to your dinner party.

Blistful Summertime Fun- 3 Scoops of Ice Cream please

2011-07-25T21:39:00.002-06:00

Oh summertime!! It is hot and humid in the city today and all I really want right now is 3 scoops of ice cream and a nice cool bed... this little number makes me think sorbet may be a good option~

Textures and colours of Summer
Celosia, Asclepia, Dahlia, Nerines, Gloriosa, Campanula, and Kermit Daisies

Royal Wedding- Anne Paterson's Style

2011-07-16T22:29:00.003-06:00

With two Royal Weddings behind us the wedding industry is a buzz with the influences made by both Kate and Princess Charlene.

I know there was some criticism on the size of Katherine's bouquet, but I personally thought she could not have choose a bouquet more suited to her personal style and taste. It was enchanting, elegant and understated and seemed to scream out Kate to me. I absolutely adored it. I also so appreciated the thought put into the meaning of the flowers chosen.

Lily of the Valley-sweetness, happiness and renewal
Hyacinth- Constancy
and both of these flowers have such an alluring scent, that you would not be able to help but bury your nose into it and breathe in the scent deeply!
Sweet William- Gallantry- and I can't help but believe it was chosen for Williams name
Myrtle- used in every royal wedding since planted by Queen Victoria in 1845.
Ivy- fidelity, love and marriage

I love the language of flowers and am thrilled that Katherine's choices have brought not just the beauty of the flowers to the forefront but also there incredible meaning. Kate also choose all locally grown flowers to the UK...Well done Kate!

Both the royal bouquets were smaller in size and this is another trend that the brides of today will be seeking... We have created our own representation of the Royal Wedding flowers...hope you enjoy it!

Phalenopsis Orchids, Stock, Astilbee, Lisianthus, Garden Roses, and Thlaspi Green Bells.

What are some things you are seeing brides seeking this year and do you see the influences from Katherine and Princess Charlene choices for their bridal bouquets?

I love Summer!!

2011-07-07T21:18:00.000-06:00

It is amazing to me how nine days in a row of sunshine and heat can alter my mood!! Oh how I love summer time. Playing and creating beautiful bouquets also make me pretty happy. The product available right now is insane!! Oh and on a side note Prince William and Kate are in town, I love them!! We got to create a posy that was going to be presented to Kate. Crossing my fingers that we will get a picture of it!

the stunning crisp white callas, blushing bride, green hydrangea, green trachelium, freesia, fountain grass, and the soft and fussy lambs ear

Anne Paterson's take on Stampede! The peony is from my garden!!

Callas, Dendrobiums, Arabicum Orni, Blushing Bride, Monstera Leaf, Fountain Grass

Astrantia and Achlemillia, both locally grown

locally grown veronica, yellow roses and freesia

a mix of local and imported flowers. The burgundy foliage is dodonea from my friends at The Flowers Group!! and the local veronica; I just want to eat it up!!!

If you want to check out more of our images please visit our Flickr account, there is a link on our sidebar.

Lovely Long Weekend, Weddings, Gardens, Flowers and Fun!!

2011-07-03T17:09:00.001-06:00

It is the long weekend and no better time to celebrate love and happiness...and we did with our own weddings! Congratulations to all of our special couples on their enchanting wedding day!!

We are also very excited to have some local blooms to be working with and the season has just begun!! Very excited to have blooms coming from our local farmers into our shop and into your homes! Buck thank you for giving of your labours so we can enjoy such beauty!!

Happy long weekend everyone!!

The Bleeding Heart, Grandpa and the Cinderella Story

2011-06-27T22:53:00.001-06:00

I have a lovely bleeding heart plant in the front of my home that every spring brings me fond memories of my Grandpa.

He would tell the tale of Cinderella to me with the blossoms from this plant. The individual blossoms represented Cinderella in her ballgown.

Next he would gently unpeeled the pink petals from the blossom and 2 tiny bunny's would appear. These were the bunnies that the Fairy Godmother turned into the beautiful Chariot that carried Cinderella to the Ball.

After the bunnies, you got a glimpse at Cinderella bloomers, all puffy and full!!

The next layer revealed in the blossom was Cinderella's glass slippers, perfect in every way!!

The last thing that appears is the magic wand that the Fairy Godmother used to make it all happen. On the tip of the wand if you look real close you will still see the remainder of the golden pixie dust so you can make your own dreams come true... Well that is how I remember it and that story and this plant to this day brings me great joy in remembering the tale that my Gramps shared with me. Hope you can share this store with the children in your life and spread the love of the Bleeding Heart to many generations to come. It still puts a huge smile on my face with fond and loving memories of an incredible man!! Love you Gramps!!

More of the Coral Charm Peony- I just can't get enough!

2011-06-23T23:38:00.000-06:00

Feast your eyes on these beauties!! I am still enjoying them and it has almost been a week!!

these were from my IPhone (forgot my camera)

You can see how each day the blossoms soften to a very pale peach to cream tone...it is like everyday it transforms itself... A lovely display of beauty!!

Passionate Peony

2011-06-20T00:25:00.002-06:00

The peony has captured me! There beauty is intoxicating and I can't get enough of them. They change in colour and size in whats seems like a moment. You can't help but give them your attention, even my 15 year old son is mesmerized by there beauty. I wish you could experience them for yourself... Well we do have them for sales at the store :) I love my job!!

Creating a World of Beauty, with your heart and your hands; the legancy left

2011-06-12T20:53:00.001-06:00

My mom has recently returned back from a trip to Saskatoon, SK to help my Great Aunt into a nursing care facility. What an incredible women my great Aunt is, a women who never married, never had children of her own but an absolutely enchanting women who has nurtured and love and definitely added to the beauty in this world. I was blessed with a treasure that was made with her marvelous hands. This is truly a lady who has created a world of beauty using her heart and her hand; one of my true inspirations.

Laying out on my dining table is a fitting representation of something truly beautiful made by the loving hand of my Great Auntie Helen who has been using her hands from a very early age to add to the beauty. She spent her life giving and helping others as a nurses aid, but also always nurtured her creative side with handcrafts. A stunning tablecloth graces my table and reminds me of the precious hands that stitched the enchanting pattern of blossoms into a lovely pattern. I am sure at the time she was making it she would have had no idea how much her love and patience would impact the world and add to its radiants. Now at the age of 95 my Great Aunt continues to give of herself and add to the joy of this life. What an wonderful gift; one I will cherish and enjoy for years to come!! Thanks for sharing your creativity and beauty to the world, it does make a difference!! I love you Auntie Helen <3

Finding New Purpose for Old Things and making them New- fabric flowers

2011-06-01T20:37:00.001-06:00

I have been having so much fun recreating old things into something new and meaningful. I have been hand crafting flowers out of old some old dollies my mom brought home to me from my great aunt as well as crafting some pretty little blossoms from old pieces of fabric that I have had kicking around for sometime. It has been so fun and my mind has been buzzing with different ideas in how to use them.

I think these little florals would create the most inspirational, one of a kind, memorable bridal bouquets ever!! They are sentimental, nostalgic, romantic and whimsical and I absolutely adore them!! What do you think? I am just getting started but I am in love with these little babies.

If you want me to do a tutorial, let me know...it is so fun. The flowers with the brown or dark edges I have seared with a candle, it is very effective.

When I was very young I did a lot of quilting and I think it is just another reason why I have such an appreciation for this notion. And if you have know me at all, or have read any of my blogs post you will know by now just how much I delight in creating things with my heart and my hands. There is nothing more sweet to me than knowing something has been handcrafted with love and attention. Knowing that each piece of fabric that composes each blossom potentially has their own alluring story to tell thrills my soul! Weaving each flower together to create a tapestry of florets that harmonize together is a delightful thing. Hope you enjoy them as much as I do! Please let me know what you think and I will pass on a few other links of ladies doing the same kind of things. Enjoy!!

http://www.rocknrollbride.com/2010/11/how-to-make-your-own-vintage-fabric-flower-bouquet-tutorial-by-josephine-sicad/, in this one I especially like how she used the egg beater/wisk as the base for the bouquet, so smart!! and her flowers are not hand made but bought, so if you do not have the time or inclination you could still create a fun and whimsical bouquet!! Love it!!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/73652562/black-and-white-cotton-wedding-bridal?ref=v1_other_2,AutumnArt from Etsy is the first fabric bouquets I came across and I absolutely love her work...so amazing. The options for these fabric flowers are endless. I am thinking brooches, hairclip, headbands, magnets that can be used on handbags, hats, shoes....oh my mind is racing...so many uses. Now I am lost in the possiblities...I am sure I will post more later!!

Spring has finally sprung- yipee!!

2011-05-30T11:52:00.000-06:00

So I am short staffed at the store and working at a frantic and steady pace, but happy as a little pig in muck cause I am getting to play with some of my favorite flowers. Also such a joy to see people responding with joy to the things that add beauty to the world. Spring!!! How I love you!!

This past Saturday I was working in the store and once again humbled at the moments in others lives that we are invited to be apart of. We welcoming of a new baby into this world, a multitudes of graduates starting a new and exciting journey in there lives, a lovely and joy filled wedding and lastly the celebration of a life well lived.... flowers really do help us to pause and remember all the precious moments this life has given to us. I am so grateful to be apart of these special and important moments in time.

To see more of our arrangements please visit us http://www.flickr.com/photos/85731754@N00/5776541493/in/photostream

Happy Spring Everyone!!

Money Mart -scam and educating the public on shadey practices

2011-05-24T22:34:00.000-06:00

So we are a pretty little flower shop that spreads warmth and cheer to others, right?! Well this last few weeks I am also getting an education on shady business practices and an over 100 year old law that protects the unethical.

Over Mother's day we hired a few contract driver to help out over our rush. This is something we have done at the store for the past ten years and never had any issues. This year is the first year we got bit. We have always paid our drivers by the delivery and in this case as soon as the check was signed we started getting calls about flowers not being delivered. I proceeded to call the driver and he never returned my calls; not on Sunday, not Monday AM, nor Monday PM, and not on Wed. His errors and blatant disregard for deliveries cost the store over $500.00 in replacement value as well as having disappointed our customers with some deliveries that did not get received for Mother's Day.

I phoned my bank on the Wednesday following Mother's day and his check had not yet cleared the bank and was advised that I could stop payment on the cheque. With him costing the business more that the amount that was owing to him I was hoping that this would at least have him contact us to get some questions about what happened with these deliveries. Well on the same day the cheque was stopped this drives took the cheque to Money Mart and received his cash. Money Mart has since contacted us saying we are responsible to pay them the amount of the original cheque plus a $40.00 fee for the NSF fees.

I was sure that we would not have to pay them but have since found out that if Money Mart sues you...that you will loose the fight and end up paying not only for your time, legal fees and the original cheque; regardless of how right you where to stop payment on the cheque.

The Bills of Exchange Act, which is more than a century old states that " A section of the Bills of Exchange Act. It defines “a holder in due course” as someone who wasn’t told about a defect in a “bill” or cheque when they got it, and says payment can be enforced “against all parties” by such a holder.

In other words, as several Money Mart personnel I talked to made a point of emphasizing (in near-identical language), a stop-payment order “has no legal force.” In my research online, case after case people loose when up against Money Mart. It seems crazy to me that a stop payment effort has zero protection to you if a cheque is cashed at one of these check cashing institutes. Many of the stories on line are even more crazy that mine and the business owners in the end where still liable.

I guess in some ways I am just venting and in another way I just want to get the word out to other people so they do not have to put up with the frustration I have had with this situation. It seems to me that this Bill needs to be amended to protect people from fraudulent cheques being cashed. If this driver had tried to cash this cheque at any bank or credit union it would have been held for up to 5 days and the driver would never received his cash (unless he came to me to reconcile the delivery issues in which he was paid for), but because he went to a check cashing institute they can actually hold me accountable for that cheque, even though it was never written to them.

So a couple of questions: Why bother with a stop payment on a cheque if it can not protect you? Why do bank not inform you that a stop payment can not protect you if the person you write the check to chooses to cash it at a cash checking institute such as Money Mart? Why are businesses like Money Mart not doing due diligence to insure that they are only cashing valid cheques? and lastly what can you do to protect ourself when writing a check to someone you do not do business with often?

It has been a very frustrating process. The one little piece of information I have is that when writing cheques to people you do not do regular business with make a notice saying they are only negotiable at a chartered bank, trust company or credit union in the memo bar and keep a photocopy of this cheque for your records. There are many other articles on line that share further information and other ideas to protect yourself but the big thing that is missing for most of us is that we were never given any of this information...so count me in on a mini mission to get the word out and hope I save a few people from this mayhem.

I will share a few other links of other peoples stores, some far worse than mine, that you would think the person writing the check would never be helt responsible. One case a business owner stopped payment on a check after an employee came and told him that they had lost their pay check; he stopped payment and reissued the check. The employee cashed the second check, found the original check and took it to Money Mart and got a second payment. Money Mart sued the business owner for the second check and he actually lost the suet!! Unbelievable and seems so unjust! Something need to be done about this Bill to protect justice and to stop these company like Money Mart from making money off of good honest people... right now they have a win, win situation on their hands. When you take your check to them they cash it keeping a percentage of the original amount as there "fee for service" and they know good and well that if the check bounces for any reason they can pull the Bill of Exchange Acts at you and force you to pay the full amount. They are thieves in my opinion and need to be shutdown!! They have been given the green light to being criminals!! Please get the word out and help protect yourself and others.

More info to read: http://www.canada.com/vancouversun/news/business/story.html?id=908b189c-f3cf-49ea-959a-6434008a196a&k=25276,

http://www.canada.com/vancouversun/news/business/story.html?id=fee8ff50-cd4d-4dc0-9716-15b8940e67b2

http://www.google.ca/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=9&ved=0CFAQFjAI&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cbc.ca%2Fnews%2Fstory%2F2009%2F06%2F12%2Ff-marketplace-cheques.html&ei=dnfcTbSHJZDciALAoc0J&usg=AFQjCNFZRHysD9I4iDjOOP2b6IxT9yTpZQ

Let me know if you have any simular stories or any further information to share. Now it is time to go and take a deep breath!! Deep Cleansing Breath!! Thank God for flowers!!

Candice and Allan's Big Day- the Composite Rose Bouquet

2011-05-14T18:26:00.003-06:00

I remember first seeing a composite rose bouquet in a Martha Stewart magazine and absolutely fell in love with the look. I was so touched when Candice approached me to make them for her special day.

I had always thought it would take an immense amount of roses to create and the labour I feared would make this bouquet untouchable to most. To my surprise her bouquet only took 10 roses and the labour although a bit tricky was not nearly as gruelling as I had imagined. My other concern was how the bouquet would hold up and I am happy to say they did very well.

I was so elated to create these classic pieces, and so thrilled to be able to share them with you. Candice and Allan had such a beautiful Wedding and I am so touched to be able to be apart of capturing a special vision she had for her fairytale Wedding.

I will just let the pictures speak for themselves...if you would like me to do a tutorial on the construction of the composite bouquet let me know and I will see what I can come up with. I think you will be surprised at just how easy they are!

All that a Mother is- Transformative Beauty

2011-05-09T11:20:00.003-06:00

I love the writing of a Franciscan Priest Richard Rohr, he doesn't pretend to have the answers to everything but lives a life in an honest pursuit for understanding, and he does it with an abundance of humility. At times it seem like he may have more questions than answers; and I like that because it is honest and true to my own heart. He writes about the transformative power that we women poses, in a book called "The Maternal Face of God."

Women offer a special gift to the world in all that we are. So today; a day after Mother's Day I give my thanks and gratitude to all the amazing and beautiful women that just continue to offer all that they are to add to the beauty in this world. Without your giving this world would be diminished, you are needed and vital to offering life and transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary!! Thank you to my own Mom and the many other amazing women in my life, whether natural birth mothers or just plan natural "mother's" by the nature of all that you give...My life is richer because of the fruits of your labours, it was not done in vain!

May we all "Create a World of Beauty, with our hearts and our hand"

Preparing for Mayham-Mother's Day Madness and our very own Royal Wedding!

2011-05-01T23:39:00.001-06:00

I am taking some deep breaths in preparation for what is sure to be a mad week. We at Anne Paterson's Flowers have been preparing for our own little "royal" wedding. One of our very own special ladies will be marrying her very own prince charming on Tuesday! Congratulations to Lindsay and Nathan on the beginning of there bliss-filled life together! You two are an amazingly cute couple and I am so excited to be apart of your special day!

It has already been a buzz of activity around the store. We have been preparing for what is bound to be a busy little week. Our new website was launched today. A few minor tweaks to still be done, but I think it is looking amazing! Thank you to all the photographers who helped us with our images, James May Photography, http://www.jamesmay.ca/, Rachelle Soucy, http://wazodesign.blogspot.com/ , Len Cyca,
http://www.cycaphotos.com/, and Kezia Becker, http://www.flickr.com/photos/61204556@N06/,

Please visit our website, http://apflowers.com/index.php, let us know what you think. If you have any suggestions on what we could do to serve you better please let us know. We would love to hear from you.

A few pictures from some of the arrangements going out tomorrow morning.

To my fellow florist, I wish you a wonderfully successful and smooth Mother's day week.

Big Fat Wet Snow!! Yikes!!

2011-04-28T23:20:00.002-06:00

This year more than any other I am so glad I get to spend my days in a flowers shop surrounded by beauty. Yes, you read right, snow on April 28th and I am getting weary of this weather. It can get you very bogged down.... but more grateful than ever to have some sign of spring in the flowers in the store. Today I just had to bask in their beauty since there was no sun in sight!

The Vivacious Vanda Orchid

2011-04-26T23:44:00.003-06:00

We received a special treat today....the pretty little flat faced Vanda orchids puts on a spectacular display of vivid colors! Each bloom is about 2 inches in diameter and they stand on a sturdy little stem. As a cut bloom the Vanda should last for up to a month. While they are not an inexpensive flower, when you consider there exotic nature I would say the stem is well worth the investment. These intoxicating blooms are natives of India, the Philippines, and some Pacific islands. They have come a long way from home to put a smile on my face today. They would be a lovely choice for any special event like a wedding or anniversary, or for that special person that lights up your day. This is Aministrative Professional's Week; this may just be the perfect bloom to let your assistant know just how much you appreciate there amazing efforts throughout the year. Whatever the reason you choose to buy the Vanda, I am certain it will please!

Succulent Wreaths

2011-04-24T05:22:00.002-06:00

I had a little bit of fun making my own succulent wreath today. A really fun little project! Spring is in the air finally!! The Easter message of hope and renewal is whispering in my ears today and as I look at this heart shaped wreath I give thanks for all the many blessings in my life.

photo by JamesMay Photography

I am thinking this may be a fun little workshop to have at the store? Please contact me if you are interested...and for now enjoy your Easter with your family and friends.

Nostalia of Easters gone by...Remembering and Renewal!

2011-04-22T23:44:00.001-06:00

Easter brings a rush of memories from my childhood. Being a little girl in a ruffly spring dress, my little white purse, crocheted lace gloves and wonderful white patent leather shoes.... oh how I loved Easter!! I always knew that I was going to get a new spring dress and I soo looked forward to church on Easter Sunday!! The Easter egg hunts the chocolate covered bunnies ( and who was going to be the first to bite off the ear)....oh and the flowers, how I loved the flowers!

Daffodils, Tulips, muscari and the signature Easter Lily and its scent, instantly take me back in time to a little four year old girl twirling around in her dress with giggles in the air, sunlight warm on my skin!!

This article helped conjure up the memories I have not thought about for sometime. Easter, a Time for Family and Flowers | Flower Factor#comment-284#comment-284
Traditions are a powerful thing!! Even though my family tradition are far less formal than the ones from my past, they still hold an importance in my life and help me to pause and remember all the little things that put a smile on your face. Spring bulbs burst with life and energy and are such a simple but powerful symbol of what Easter is all about.

Easter is a time to look back and remember! To give thanks that after a long hard winter, spring is here. It is a time of renewal and hope for the future. A symbol of growth and new life!! I am so grateful for my heritage and for traditions and symbols that help us me remember the things that are so important.

What are some of the traditions of Easter for you? Do you have fresh new ways you celebrate the holiday with your family today? Do you incorporate the blossoms of spring into your Easter traditions?

Making New Things Old

2011-04-16T21:02:00.001-06:00

I have said it before; I like making old things new or using old and interesting things in new ways, but in this case I made something new just a little bit older. I love the look of designing floral arrangement, planter baskets and herb gardens in old wood antique crates. Unfortunately getting our hand on these crates is in short supply.

Not long ago we were able to source some inexpensive pine wood crates online. The only problem was they were new. I wanted the patina of old silvered barn board and I found the solution!! The recipe is super easy and very inexpensive and so easy to do.

Take 1 cup pickling vinegar and add extra fine steel wool. Let the mixture sit for 12 hours or more. Remove the steel wool and take a paint brush and test a piece of wood to see how you like the finish. If it stains the wood darker than you desire, dilute the vinegar solution with equal parts water and try the test again. I used pine wood and this solution will have different results on different wood so do test the results on something that you are not to worried about before beginning. Also beware....wear an apron or clothes your not worried about ruining ( I destroyed one of my favorite white button ups), it is an acidic mixture and will stain your clothes as well as the wood.

bottom, before; upper, after

I used the original mixture and did not tamper with it at all and was quite happy with the results. Give it a try and let me know how it works out for you.... New made old, presto!! Anne Paterson's is working their magic again! ;)

A fun little project for one of our snow covered "spring" days! Sorry my camera is out of commission for a bit and I am really missing it but will try to add pics to this post when I can.

Sneak Peak from a photoshoot- Wazo Design

2011-04-04T13:55:00.000-06:00

Rachelle, from Wazo Design is helping us put together some new images for our new website. I am getting really excited to get it up and running, but can't get ahead of myself. Just wanted to give you a sneak peak at some of the images she captured while visiting the store. Beautiful work Rachelle!!

wazo design - rachelle soucy: My most recent project is for a florist wanting to...

Things that fill you up!!

2011-03-29T22:53:00.003-06:00

Anne Paterson's111 a photo by KeziaKathrynPhotography on Flickr.

Life is so full of the sweet little moments that seem to light you up, give you hope, spark the flame!! Little "God moments" where you are able to see more clearly the devine...true gifts of inspiration! Moments that can so quickly appear and just as quickly vanish out of sight. Makes it even more important to stop and take note of them, and recognize them as the precious gifts that they are!!

Take sometime to reflect on the things that fill you up...give thanks, be grateful and offer a little piece of yourself back to reflect the gift that was given to you... after all is that what makes the world go round?

Origami March Madness

2011-03-28T22:11:00.007-06:00

Ok, well maybe it is not Origami March madness....but this March has seemed a bit mad!! I do believe that origami may have helped us from going insane!! It is suppose to be at least showing the signs of spring by now, right??? Where is Spring???

Who knew just how fun folding paper could be to help march the month of March out the door in hopes of spring! I created a playful origami floral bouquet to greet my customers as they enter our doors at Anne Paterson's. If you want to add a little spring into your gloomy days I highly recommend youtube origami how-to instructions to folding your way back to some sunshine!!

Here are some of the links to some of the sites I used:

There are honestly endless resources so have fun and let's hear it for spring!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2j6GNx89qtc&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3t06LFpUu8&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HIRKHwG1CIk&feature=more_related

If you are still looking for more inspiration check out these links:

Ashley Meaders - This is where my inspiration for the store instillation came from. Ashley created a fantastic hanging display for a wedding ceremony. She used fabric, paper and tissue to create a fun and whimsical setting for this event.

My girlfriend Rachelle also had a fun post on the art of origami folding, please check her out and show her your love. Enjoy and have fun!!

Bubble Gum Magic

2011-03-24T21:21:00.002-06:00

Untitled a photo by anne pat's on Flickr.

Today was a day to play!! Fun times in the flower shop...We got to create a centerpiece with a bubble gum theme. With the flowers at our fingertips today it was hard to go wrong!! Sweet peas, prunus, peonies, genestra, dubium orni and so much more!!

Narnia

2011-03-22T19:49:00.003-06:00

Ok, even though spring is officially here; when I look and step outside it is anything but...It kind of feels like I am stuck in Narnia and it is always winter, but Christmas never comes! I don't know about you but I am ready to slay the White Witch all on my own!!! "Wrong will be made right", and just when I am getting weary of what I see outside my doors ( white stuff and then some more white stuff), they open and in walks a little taste of spring....Oh how I love flower day!! and I am so glad "Aslan comes in sight".

What a treat....we have peonies, ranunculus, genestia and buckets and buckets of more goodies....these small flowers just have no idea how much hope they bring to my tired of winter bones!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Cycle of Life

2011-03-14T15:18:00.006-06:00

Funeral Wreath a photo by anne pat's on Flickr.

As I was making this funeral tribute, I was reflecting on recent happenings in the world, specifically the tragedy in Japan. How so many people have been affected by loss. At the same time, a dear friend has welcomed her first son into the world.

Flowers themselves represent the process of life and death. Flowers are a sign of life and can be especially heartening during difficult times. White flowers represent new beginnings and tributes.

This wreath includes viburnum, casablanca lilies, gerberas, anenomes, roses, hydrangea, phalaenopsis orchids, and kermit mums.

My Garden Roses

2011-03-13T14:49:00.000-06:00

We just got these beauties in the shop and it was love at first sight, or was it first scent?! They are absolutely intoxicating in every way and take me back to my dad's rose garden as a child. I have brought two roses home to enjoy and these little charmers have not disappointed! They have mesmerized me with their splendour day after day. I have capture their image for the past 4 days and honestly can't get enough of them!

These roses conger up words like nostalgia, romance, and opulence. They instantly make me think of the old dutch master painting, and of days gone by. They are full and lush and the scent of these blossoms infectiously fill a room, and beg you to breathe it in deeply. The ruffled, irregular shape of their petals beckon you to get a little closer. Take a peak at all the different varieties of this little Columbia grower; http://www.alexandrafarms.com/. I think you are going to fall in love with these roses as much as I have. The pink rose is named Yves Piaget and is the blue ribbon winner from SAF as an outstanding variety. The white rose goes by the name of White Ohara; both varieties are truly lovely.

How it all began and where we are going...

2011-03-07T21:56:00.019-07:00

I was fortunate to have fallen into my passion straight out of high school. Unexpected and unplanned but exactly where I was meant to be; I found my home in a flower shop!! Flowers make me smile everyday; how can that possibly be a bad thing?! Working with my hands and creating something beautiful brings me joy and pleasure and seeing how my small efforts can make a difference in the lives of others is very rewarding.

Family and nurturing is important to me and flows into not just my home life but every relationship I encounter: my boys, my family, friends, co-workers and my customers and their families. Working with my amazing staff is hugely rewarding! Watching how our lives entwine and grow brings me a lot of life. We learn from each other, grow together and inspire one another.

Flowers convey so many feeling that maybe at times we as humans have such a hard time expressing, but they just do it naturally and without effort. They are vulnerable in the beauty they offer; even if it is only for a short time. Starting as a small bud, until they blossom into there full glory; but every step of the way, they offer all that they are. You just can't help but be amazed by their beauty! They give all that they are to make a small difference, even for the briefest of moments.

The store: Nostalgic, romantic, whimsical, reminiscent, English Country Garden with a modern twist...eclectic, warm, magical.

Things I love: garden flowers, fragrance: pansies, peonies, sweet peas, dahlias, lily of the valley, lupin, and sunflowers, Berries, twigs, vines and blooming branches, Textures, colour, lace (especially eyelet), anything hand-made with love!!! lost arts...

My grandmas were gardeners and also created beautiful things with their hands and their hearts...giving a little piece of themself in their efforts. Watching them and working alongside them as a child grew into a love that still lives in me today. My mom is also a crafty and talented women is who always amazing me with her creations. It is like magic flows through her fingertips; she practically has the ability to create something amazing out of what started out as nothing at all!! She has always had the ability to make her house a home with her special signature!

One of my dearest friends describes Anne Paterson's as a magical place...where little miracles happen everyday! That puts a smile on my face, because I believe when you open yourself up, beautiful things happen. In the little things, there is growth, beauty and transformation. I have stood witness to the miracles; seen and experienced the power of life and sting of death; I have watched the circle of life take place in all areas of my life. Every stage has an awe inspiring beauty that you can't help but be changed by. What can I say, I am a mush and this special place called Anne Paterson's Flowers has entwined itself into the fabric of who I am and all that I am becoming!!

Natural, organic, wild and untamed

So I hope you feel welcomed into our enchanted garden and experience a little bit of the magic and beauty this world has to offer. If it happens, I count myself blessed to be apart of something special.

Sharing laughs, life and love