Flower Factor: A Lifestyle Blog From Aboutflowers.com

One of the things on my bucket list was to go to the Kentucky Derby, and I was lucky enough to get the opportunity last year. And boy, I was not disappointed!

As a floral designer, I have always been excited by the tradition of the Garland of Roses presented to the winner. I had no idea about all the other flowers before, during and after the race.

The minute I got off the plane in Kentucky and walked into the terminal, we were greeted with every ticket area decorated with red roses.

On the moving escalator, a huge floral arrangement of probably 150 red roses lined the walkway every 10-ft. I counted about 24 arrangements! The red roses continued at the car rental desk, and the lobby of our hotel had flowers everywhere.  Read More

The second big color and design trend theme you’ll see this year is called “The Incarnation of Earth’s Elements.” This is the second in a four-part series.

With the Incarnation of Earth’s Elements, we see how the fundamental elements found in nature, such as minerals, fire, water, and wood are incorporated into our lifestyles. Today, many of us take time to invest in ourselves in living healthier. We may eat healthier and exercise more. One may also explore outdoor activities such as hiking and bike riding which provide a balance and an escape from our hectic daily work routines. It’s all about healing our spirits.

We have seen for several years now nature becoming a strong trend incorporated into our home and work places. The addition of natural products helps us keep in touch with nature rooting and connecting us with our environment. Interior plants such as orchids, callas and easy-care succulents will continue to see a rise in popularity. We also see in interior design elements from nature being mixed — metals with interesting grainy woods such as zebra or burl to marbles and stone with wood.

Colors explode with fiery reds, watery blues, vibrant grass greens that are occasionally soothed by the addition of some more neutral gray, chocolate and champagne gold.  Read More

Every year after researching the latest floral and design trends, it amazes me how trends continue to evolve and inspire me with newness and freshness. So much of what is happening in the world today socially, economically and politically affect color and design trends. This year, we’re seeing brighter and bolder colors. People generally feel more confident about the economy, and one indicator of this is the vibrancy and uplifting color palettes forecasted by the Color Marketing Group for 2018.

As we march through 2018, we’ll experience four key floral trends. In this post, I address the first powerful and inspiring trend — Magnificent Mediterranean. This is the first in a four-part series.

Imagine yourself strolling through the small villages on the Mediterranean, in either Italy, Spain, or Greece. We notice the rich robust colors of golden butterscotch, red-orange, olive, and frosted almond combined with the vibrant blues and calming ocean teal that surround these villages. Steeped in history, geometric floral patterns explode and can be seen in fashion, textiles (such as cotton and linens) and home decor accents. Our interest increases in seeing hand-crafted ceramics and unique home accents.  Read More

First impressions mean a lot when it comes to our homes. Our entryways – large or small – provide the opportunity for our guests to feel welcome the moment they walk in the door. Adding bright splashes of color to a neutral entryway can give the space a WOW factor. One way that’s simple and always makes a statement is flowers. They say, “I’m glad you’re here.”

I recently partnered with color expert Mark Woodman to show you how to make a meaningful first impression in your home.

What is your favorite way to make your guests feel welcome?

For more tips and advice, visit aboutflowers.com/twominutetrends.

2018 is right around the corner, and if you are planning your wedding (congratulations!), it can be hard to know where to start as the style trends of the new year are beginning to emerge. Have no fear, as this is the year in which you can select a sophisticated and chic look or embrace the unique style of the casual hipster and still be on trend. 2018 is the time to embrace your personal style in making your wedding day simply unforgettable.

Your florist can help you make the day a unique celebration you, your family, and your guests will all remember for years to come. Your florist can help you define your wedding style through color, texture, and design elements. They are your go-to source for what’s on trend, as they are constantly working with brides to deliver a day full of beauty and glamour.

This coming year, wedding gowns seem to have a Mediterranean influence, bearing some skin in a classic way with a Grecian goddess look. Paired with bouquets and arrangements that have a natural, freeform styling, incorporating vines, fruits, and greens, set in formal pedestal vases and against structured patterns, this trend has the opulence of coastal Europe to add to the decadence of the day.  Read More