Random Thoughts…

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Every so often I have these thoughts…. You know the kind that makes you sit back and wonder if its you or if it’s the proverbial ‘them’. (I am still waiting to find out who exactly ‘them’ is…but that would be for another blog) Here are a few random thoughts and items that have occurred over the last few weeks:

1. If I really wish and try can I make my dog stop shedding?

2. Did someone actually ask me if I could make sure that if I order a particular flower it will be in the exact color that matches her dress and would I promise that it would not vary?

3. If I use the power of positive thinking hard enough can I make my hair stop turning grey?

4. Why is there a ‘national moldy cheese day’? Who thought that was something we needed to celebrate?

5. How is it that it takes 2 months to lose 5 lbs and 5 days to gain it back?

6. I am disappointed that I completely missed  ‘Talk Like A Pirate Day’…  I so would have answered my phone with a hearty ‘Arrggg’ that whole day!

Now, I’m well aware that we all have random thoughts that cross our minds… not sure about anyone else, but mine seem to do it at the most inopportune times. Like when I’m trying to concentrate on my work. Or when I’d really like to be falling asleep rather than having these ridiculous thoughts. I think its important to note that both Dorelle and I realize that we think a little outside the box much of the time, which comes in handy for design and flower choices… we do like to look at that as generally a positive attribute about us. I do occasionally wonder how much of that is a combination of a little bit of skill and our somewhat offbeat view of  the things. In any case… I’m okay with it and I believe our clients are too!

I recently saw this pic and I’m pretty sure that it is so for me… Dorelle’s pretty sure of it as well…

images

 

 

 

 

 

 

Now go out there, enjoy the humor in life’s random moments, and have a flower-filled day!

 

(photo courtesy of teleicious.tumblr.com)

Lemons and Lemonade

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Last week we noticed something… sometimes, things happen and it just doesn’t seem that anything is going the way we planned.

We had a schedule full of exciting things we were going to be doing, both in our business and personal lives. One by one, like the proverbial dominoes, they fell. A long time scheduled item was cancelled last minute due to weather and something else for a family issue, then one item just wasn’t going to work because of a scheduling issue, another had an emergency pop up last minute. Now, usually when this sort of thing happens, the first one or two we think, oh just coincidence.  By the time the 3rd or 4th domino was down and left strewn by the wayside, we began to think…is it us? is it them? Is someone or something trying to tell us something? Why is it raining lemons on our parade?? We began to say to each other there just HAS to be a reason why everything is just falling apart!? And after exploring any number of exotic reasons and wildly guessing at what the universe’s plans could be, we move on to how do we make the best of a crummy situation?

One of those events involved not just us, but a number of vendors, (though as it turned out it is not cancelled, just postponed, much to our relief)  So here we are… buckets full of flowers…what do we do with them all!!? Luckily, we were able to schedule one thing that we could use a small amount of them for. But, what to do with all the rest? (and there were plenty, indeed!)

And then Dorelle who, as usual, is the ‘idea girl’, finds the coolest ways to give charity. She had come across an organization awhile back called “Random Acts Of Flowers”. So, as she has been doing of late whenever we have a few flowers leftover, or designs that were used for a show and returned, all still beautifully fresh, she takes them and donates them to a local home for the aged. They love whenever she shows up with flowers in hand and we love knowing that someone is able to enjoy them. (Not that we ourselves would not, but we get to see fresh flowers all the time!). So off she went… with buckets to give!

In the end, we were reimbursed for the flowers by the company that had postponed their event, and though we offered the flowers to them to keep, they declined. I like to think the universe was wanting those flowers to be used exactly as they were, thanking us for being charitable and bringing some sunshine to others. As for all our personal plans, well… eventually we’ll get it together and try again, or maybe… we’ll just make some lemonade.

make-lemonade

 

 

 

 

http://www.randomactsofflowers.org/

Now, go make some lemonade and have yourself a flower filled day!

Ellen & Dorelle

 

 

Navigating a Bridal Show… Tips From The Blog

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Navigating a Bridal Show…Tips from the Blog

Attending bridal shows are exciting, fun and exhausting all at the same time.  There are basically 3 different types of bridal shows, so, plan accordingly before attending.

The Big Ones!

These bridal shows are great for the newly engaged and very excited brides-to-be because there is LOTS of excitement, lots of energy, and lots of free stuff. At these bridal shows you will meet multiple vendors who offer the same type of service. The benefits are:

  •  You can sign up to win stuff
  •  You can see a fashion show of what is in style this season and next
  •  You can taste LOTS of different types of foods and treats
  •  You will take home a lot of freebie type of marketing paraphernalia

The following tips will help you with “the big ones”

1. Create a separate e-mail address for just your wedding and the vendors. This way, once you are married, it can be erased, saving you valuable e-mail space.
2. Create labels that include: bride’s name, groom’s name, address, phone number, e-mail address and wedding date. Print out a few sheets of these and take them with you.
3. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a bottle of water. These shows are BIG, so you will have to buy drinks if you don’t bring them with you.
4. Bring your calendar to know what days you are available. Many vendors offer discounts if you book a consultation appointment with them on the spot.
5. Be patient. These shows are busy.  You will have to wait on line to get in, to register, and to see the vendors you are interested in.
6. Bring a camera. With all the displays there will be certain design aspects that will catch your eye and help the vendor you choose make your dream wedding a reality. (Be sure to ask 1st if it’s OK to take photos)

Example: http://tampabaybridalexpos.com

Big Event Shows

The Boutique Events

These events are great for those who like more one on one time with vendors. These events are usually held in more intimate locations, off beat places, or spaces that you might not know you could consider holding an event.

These events generally have only 1 or 2 vendors per service type. They may have a small fashion show or even an area where you could try on gowns.

These events are intimate, and give you time to really speak with and hear the vendors; You might even be able to have a little one on one Q & A right in the vendor booth.

There won’t be the same type of crowds and there will be way less giveaways and freebies.

These events are great to attend after you have had your fill of THE BIG ONES, or if you just like smaller, quieter types of events.

Example: https://www.facebook.com/events/532565216798856/

small show

The Trunk shows or Open Houses

These shows are small, usually held within the venue that is marketing the event.  At these events you will find the following…Vendor specific push. What does this mean?:

  •  If the location is a caterer, they will be showcasing food, with a few “preferred” vendors
  •  If the host is a bridal gown house, they will have gowns on display for you to try on, and will have some of their favorite support vendors there for you to speak with.
  •  Because these shows are small, there isn’t usually a fee for entrance or an RSVP needed. You may only need 30 minutes to navigate the entire event.

These shows are great for making final decisions on specific vendor types.

Example: http://whitemagnoliabridal.com/our_events.html

trunk show

Each kind of show has it’s own value. You need to decide which one is most valuable to you!

Now…go and have yourself a wholesale fresh flower day!

Link: check out one of Brides N Blooms Wholesale & Designs “Party It Forward©” boutique shows: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4dot_ps2mWk&hd=1

Secret Ingredient…

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Sometimes I think I am so lucky…. I have a job where I get to work with my great friend Dorelle! I get to work with pretty flowers! I get to create artistic things and usually we are working on something happy and full of joy. Best of all though, we get to meet lots of people!

I have always been an artist and I’ve worked in many mediums. (Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise, flowers are a medium). When left to my own devices I like to try something new or put colors and flowers together in fun patterns!  As consultants though, it is our job to listen to what our client wants and make that vision a reality. Give us a picture and we can make that happen. Explain your vision and we will work hard to bring that picture in your head to life.

Occasionally, there is the  client who really doesn’t know what they want and has absolutely no vision for their big day.  Sometimes we have the DIY client, who calls our Wholesale division and needs some guidance.  That is where Dorelle excels. She is the idea girl. If someone who calls needs some help, she will spend the time helping them bring their vision together. In our Design division I am sure that is why we work together so well. Whatever she dreams up, I will try!

Our families and friends have said we should be in a TV reality show because we play off each other so well. I’m not sure how entertaining for the masses that would be, but for us when working on a project it certainly makes the day more enjoyable. I know it is clear to our clients that we love what we do and we like working together.  Flowers, Friends & Fun. I think those are our secret ingredients and is there a better way to work than that?

Some fun floral designs:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Q9ffmkYdwE&hd=1

Ellen & Dorelle

Friends & Business Partners!

Friends & Business Partners!

It’s going to take some time to plan…

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So, you’re finally ready to plan the big event! It could be a wedding, a bar/bat mitzvah, quinceanera, birthday or anniversary celebration.  One thing is for certain, it’s going to cost money and it’s going to take some time to plan.

My advice is simple, and straight forward:

1.   Start early:

checklist girl

Whenever possible, give yourself enough time to find the right venue & vendors. Interview vendors and make smart decisions based on solid information and choice rather than being forced to take whatever is available.

Make a list of what you need to do in order of importance and as you gain each piece, check it off on your list as done.

2.      Make a budget:

piggies

If you are like most everyone, money is going to be a big factor in planning your event. It will more than likely dictate each facet, so decide what is most important to you down to what is the least important to you. Be realistic about what each vendor will need to get what you want. It’s okay to be frugal, but don’t expect a $50,000 wedding on a $10,000 budget.

Brides N Blooms Wholesale and Design always asks our clients for their floral budget in our initial consultation. It helps the client think about what they will be comfortable spending and keeps us both on target with their budget range. It also helps us decide what flowers & design work we can offer without breaking the bank. We always tell our clients it is not our intention to reach into your pocket and take what you do not have to spend. There is nothing worse than having a client’s hopes for something be completely dashed because what we discussed ended up being totally out of their budget comfort zone. Remember, “budget” is not a dirty word, it’s a necessary word. No one will fault you for having a budget; we all just need to know what your comfort range is!

3.      Get Referrals:

coffee

If this is the first time you are planning a big event, talk to friends and family who have been there before. They will have insight into details that you might not have thought of.  Ask for and about the vendors they used and what they thought. If there is a vendor you seek that offers something new or is something that your friends/family didn’t have at their event, ask other vendors that you’ve contracted with if they can help. Many times when sitting down with a client we will share the names of different vendors we trust and have worked with. So don’t be afraid to ask. If you have the resources to use an event planner, that is a great option as well.

The time to plan goes by so fast, though sometimes it feels like you will never be done! If you are organized and keep to your budget and goals when the big day arrives you will be able to sit back and enjoy the day with all the happiness it deserves!

Now go plan to have a wonderful wholesale flower filled day!

Some wedding floral ideas by Brides N Blooms Designs:  http://pinterest.com/bridesnblmsdsn/roses-bouquets/    http://pinterest.com/bridesnblmsdsn/wedding-decor-miscellaneous-items/

 

Food Trucks for your Wedding?

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As our long time readers know, we are all about bringing cool and unusual vendors to the forefront. No, they aren’t all for everyone, but, it’s good to know what’s out there, that might spark some interest.

This time we are going to highlight food trucks. Yes, I went there…Food trucks have made there mark on the culinary landscape.

They have food trucks that specialize in pretty much anything you may want. In fact, you could have your entire event catered by food truck chefs.

DC-wedding-food-truck-by-Poetic-Reality-Photography

Start with a truck that specializes in sandwiches or small bite morsels, for your Cocktail hour.  https://www.facebook.com/PaniniRiffic &  http://www.spunkyspirits.com to bring the cocktails.

Then bring on the Entrée truck… http://www.mobilemunchiez.com/

You could have almost ANYTHING you could think of. Got Vegan friends, Yeah there’s a truck for that.  http://www.therandyradish.com/

Now the best truck drives up, the Dessert truck… http://www.smoothinandshaken.com/

So in days gone by we had chocolate fountains (nice, but, messy)

Then we had Dessert tables (awesome for take-home goodies)

The cookies and milk/coffee doggie bags (very nice for those who maybe a bit tipsy from the open bar)

But, imagine being able to bring your guests outside, and instead of the “ice cream truck” which, in the Summer is still a GREAT option, they would enter the Dessert truck. They could pick out whatever desserts their heart desired, and it would all be “FREE”…

Wait..what if you gave them a Golden ticket to enter the dessert truck…but, I digress as thoughts of Willie Wonka fill my head.

Go on, dream it up, You are sure to find a “food truck” for that. I have found that the chefs on the trucks are more than willing to work with you, to get the very best bang for your buck, AND bring the cool element to your event.

Now, go have yourself a wholesale flower filled day…Remember, bridesnblooms.com where the flowers are always fresh from the farms to your arms. Wholesale flowers and design, helping you save money on your bulk flowers, one event at a time.

Links for more vendors: https://bridesnblooms.com/links.html

We’re Back!

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We’re Back! It’s been a little while since we were here, but now we’re ready to share everything that we’ve been doing while we were gone!

After a busy wedding season with lots of wonderful Brides & parties we needed to spend a little time with our families and get a little R & R in. So, we took a little time off!  Everyone needs a break once in awhile! Even your friends at Brides N Blooms, Wholesale & Design!

Relaxing is fun!

Relaxing is fun!

After we returned to our work space we took a good look around and decided things needed to be organized. We had fun going through our inventory, deciding what we still wanted and what we no longer needed. We loved finding some little forgotten treasures and going through the boxes of items we hadn’t seen in awhile. We are so much happier with our space now. It is neat and organized and ready for work!

We're working hard!

Organizing things is a big job!

So now its back to work! We have been attending seminars and networking meetings, keeping up with what other event professionals are doing and researching new ideas and trends in our industry. We are working on a new look for our Brides N Blooms Design page. Keep an eye out for our new logo design!  July will bring a new sales special and plans for our next Party It Forward© are in the works! All of it is very exciting and we’re so grateful that our family and friends are supporting us through this whirlwind of change.

Hard at work!!

Hard at work!

This past spring seemed to bring out the “nautical” in our Brides. We provided flowers and designs for some beautiful Nautical/Beach themed weddings throughout the Tampa Bay area. We loved being a part of each and every one of them! We were lucky enough to do events on yachts on both sides of the Bay as well as A lovely beach/nautical themed wedding at the Carlouel Yacht Club in Clearwater Beach.

We were very excited to have been a part of two beautiful weddings at the Indian Cultural Center in Tampa as well as a  fairytale themed wedding at the Event Factory.

Our wholesale division shipped lots of flowers to Brides and event hosts all over the US. We always enjoy hearing how happy our customers are with their flowers and what they did with them! Brides N Blooms as a company is all about giving back and doing good for the community. So, following in the footsteps of  “Random Acts of Flowers” we donate all leftover flowers and floral designs to a local nursing home.  Thankfully it has been a wonderful year so far, and we look forward to working with all our new clients in this upcoming season.

fireworks

On a final note, we wish everyone a great Independence Day! Get your red, white and blue on and remember our troops who make it possible for us to celebrate our freedom!

Wedding photos:        https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.474423635978509.1073741840.235756349845240&type=3                                                                                                                                                                  https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.472385626182310.1073741839.235756349845240&type=3

Video Powerpoint of some designs

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We want to thank Ellen for all her hard work at getting this powerpoint presentation to work, so that we could share it with all of you.  If you should have any photos of work you have done with your bridesnblooms.com flowers, please, send them on to us, and we will add them in!

Have a wholesale flower filled day!

Custom designed gown sketch

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Hi everyone!

I have another fantastic vendor to introduce you to. I bet, unless you are a celebrity or a very high end bride, that you thought you couldn’t have a custom sketch of your wedding gown. That’s right, a true artist, skilled in fashion design will sketch out your gown, just for you!

What an amazing keepsake for you! You may not wind up keeping your actual gown, but, for all eternity, you will have a sketch of the gown you wore.

Is that not totally cool?

Here’s what Heather needs from you…

-Pictures of your dress-you can email or if you only have hard copies you can mail them
Any specific details you would like to focus on (if this is beadwork you must make sure it is clear in the pictures)
-She will also do a front view or a back view, or can do both for an extra fee
TIME:
-You should allow 2-3 weeks for the sketch to be completed and in the mail to you (so if this is a gift, please contact Heather at least a month in advance)
What you will receive :

-Either an 8×10 or an 11×13 picture of your sketch

Please Note: Heather’s sketches are an artistic interpretation of your dress as she sees it…..It will not be an exact replica.

You can reach Heather and check out some of her other masterpieces on her website.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/gownsketch

So, go ahead, have your gown sketched and have a wholesale flower filled day!

Officiant extraordinaire! PA, MD, DC

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Hi everyone!

Today we have a Local treat for PA, MD and DC brides. If you are looking for the perfect Officiant we have found her for you! Rev. Judith L. Guasch!

What do we love about Judith? How about everything!!!

As your wedding officiant, Rev. Guasch believes it is important to create a wedding ceremony with each couple that is as unique as they are, because each couple’s story is different and unique.  When working with couples, together, you will write a wedding ceremony which reflects your relationship, your spiritual values and your own cultural heritage.  With Rev. Guasch as your wedding officiant, You create a wedding ceremony all your own which bridges the old traditions with the modern contemporary in what she calls “Re-Traditionalizing.”   And when you have ownership, You are in control.  So, whether you are getting married for the first time, or renewing your vows, having a traditional wedding, Civil union, or doing something different in an unique setting, Rev. Guasch is the one and only wedding officiant who  will help you make your wedding day a day to truly remember!

One really cool element that Rev. Guasch brings to the table is that she actually helps you to “tie the knot”, This is accomplished via the Handfasting technique.”  The Ancient Celts tied knots over and around the hands of a couple during a marriage ceremony, so that the couple would be bound to a life of blessings, health, and happiness.  Hence we get the expression “Tie the Knot.” If you choose a handfasting ceremony with Rev. Guasch you can quite literally “tie the knot”, with the help of your friends and family; Creating a unique memory and a wonderful memento to have and to hold! 

Rev. Judith L. Guasch, M.Div. is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force.  She received her Masters of Divinity in 1999, and is a member of the Unitarian Universalist Church.

Take advantage of Rev. Guasch’s deal for 2011-2012 weddings.

Couples who book now for Nov. 2011 through Nov. 2012  receive a $20 discount on their ceremony fee.
Services must be booked and Planning Fee paid in order to receive discount.

Check out Rev. Gausch’s website www.lovely-uniqueweddings.com or give her a call at 717-222-9173.

Here’s to happy planning, and a wholesale fresh flower filled day!