Flower Factor: A Lifestyle Blog From Aboutflowers.com

When it comes to inspiration for 2017 weddings, there is one trend that is not just retro but also has a global influence. This growing “Boroccan” trend is the combination of the alternative lifestyle of Bohemian, which has been around for several years, with the rich ornate Moroccan culture. The modern Boho and the retro ’70s influence mix with this romantic Mediterranean culture and creates an explosion of eclectic patterns, textural glass and votive collections that are influenced by the rich vibrant culture of Morocco.  Read More

For floral table decor, bridal bouquets, floral jewelry and more, go gaga for the Pantone Color of the Year 2017 “Greenery.” This choice is so versatile and complementary to so many other floral color palette inspirations. Pantone describes Greenery as “a refreshing and revitalizing shade, symbolic of new beginnings.” Florists are excited to see this color hit the forefront, as green is a way to add freshness and impact to floral designs.

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What a year! We had a blast showing the country how good it feels to give and receive flowers through “Petal It Forward.” We showed how flowers are a small, yet powerful gesture for recognizing achievements. We celebrated exciting wedding and event party trends, a long romantic Valentine’s Day weekend and even Super Bowl Sunday. Thank you to our contributors for sharing their expertise. And a great big thanks to YOU for reading and sharing our ideas on all things floral.

And now, please enjoy this trip down memory lane as we look back at the top Flower Factor posts of 2016:

Flowers Create Connection: In response to new data reaffirming the science behind flowers’ ability to improve moods and lessen anxiety, the Society of American Florists and florists nationwide hit the streets on October 19 in 234 cities in all 50 states to hand out tens of thousands of flower bouquets to busy commuters. This “Petal It Forward” effort was meant to not only brighten the day of those receiving the bouquets, but recipients were also given a second bouquet to share with someone who needed a lift.

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The holidays are here. Isn’t it grand? Oh, how I love the sappy Christmas movies, traditional carols and ringing bells. The red and green makes my heart sing. Walking through the city, checking out the holiday window displays and enjoying a cup of hot cocoa as I watch people bustling about. Shopping, baking, gifting and merry making throughout the season. It’s all such fun with a little planning and self-care. It is easy to get overwhelmed. Stay in control with these seven tips, and you’ll not only survive — you’ll enjoy and have fun throughout the holiday season.

Practice the 30-minute rule. Cleaning house can take all day (or all week). Pare down to the necessities, and get it done in 30 minutes. Make the bed, shine up the bathroom and fluff the throw pillows. The goal is to spiff up the house, not to create a showroom.  Read More

As the year races to an end, we find ourselves trapped in a festive frenzy. Each day is filled with fun and frivolity. Just how much celebrating can a person do? As always, just a little bit more. This year is especially busy as the holidays, both religious and secular, collide.

Hanukkah begins on Saturday, December 24. Christmas follows on Sunday, December 25; Kwanzaa on December 26; and a week later, Saturday, December 31 is New Year’s Eve. Looking one day forward, we have the grand festivities of New Year’s Day. Time to take a deep breath and decide how to handle the dueling holidays.

With the diversity of cultures and beliefs in our world, the holidays truly do become a “melting pot” of traditions. Many expand their celebrations to include the jolly Santa, the elf on the shelf and gifting between friends and families. It can be hard to determine what to gift, to whom and when. Do they celebrate Hanukkah? Are they celebrating the Solstice, Kwanzaa, Three King’s Day or Chinese New Year? Do they celebrate Christmas? Oh, the gift-giving angst! Read More