Store Happenings Late September 2012

The sales floor has transformed from Summer to Fall with tweeds, ticking, leathers and wood.  Kelley Faulkner and Heather Freeman have designed a warm and inviting feel in the store among the flowers and plants.  The panels behind the register are made from scraps of driftwood and the chandeliers are constructed of curly willow vines.  

In addition to the fabulous fall flowers, another key arrival are our Dr. Delphinium pumpkins!  Kelley meticulously orders the dried products that you see on these gorgeous pumpkins and each is individually designed for a one of a kind gift for you or for someone else!  These pumpkins will last throughout the entire season of Halloween and Thanksgiving so be sure to come and pick one out today!  They have already started to fly out of the door!

So please stop by and see how fabulous everything looks!

Thanks for reading!

More Store Happenings! Mid-August 2012

I know you have seen the advertisements but we wanted to give you a little more background about the floral classes which begin August 16^th.  These classes run for five Thursdays and are taught by our very own Bryna Morrow, the Dr. D. wedding and events coordinator.  Each week, the topic changes and ranges from the rose arrangement which is a good fundamental design, to hand tied bridal bouquets. 

  

In deciding the subject matter, Bryna has drawn from the four main areas of floral design; classic, modern, wedding and events.  Her objective is to draw from each genre in order to provide a platform for people who want to learn more about floral design to create works of art for their own party or event.  More information can be found at http://www.drdelphinium.com/designclasses.asp.

Thanks for reading,

Robin

Store HIGHLIGHTS August 2012

We have added two new candle lines to our sales floor!  Aquiesse and Voluspa are two wonderful brands that have luxurious scents and long burn times.  Clean burning and fragrant, these candles are an excellent addition to your home or as a gift.  The Aquiesse line we offer is sold in a clear glass square; the Voluspa candles we have available are sold in a sleek tin.





From the Voluspa Japonica line, Dr Delphinium carries the fragrances of Moso Bamboo, Santiago Huckleberry, Gigi Tarocco Orange, Baltic Amber, Mokara, and French Cade Lavender.  From the Aquiesse Souvenir line, we carry the scents of North Sea, Riviera, Costa Rica, Mediterranean, Mystique and Santa Barbara. 

Please visit our store to find the candle(s) that your nose needs!

Plant Blog #7

It's been way too long because of technical issues...really.  We apologize for our absence. 

I hear the expression, “I have no green thumb” all the time.  This gave me cause to look up the derivation of the phrase.  It seems in older times, it was not just the thumb but the fingers as well that were “green”.  Some sources say that the green fingers relate to the algae that stained the fingers after rubbing off clay pots.  The use of the word “thumb” goes back to the millers.  Millers, who ground crops such as corn for farmers, would rub the corn between their thumb and palm and if it was good, the miller was said to have a “golden thumb”.  It would appear that the golden thumb morphed into green thumb with reference to gardeners that produced good plants.  Whether this is accurate or not it is plausible, so I am a believer.

You don’t have to have a green thumb just the desire and time to put into plants.  As I have said before, plants are like people.  Some need a lot of care and some not so much; some are prickly while others are smooth.  They all have different requirements and offer an array of colors and textures.  They are all unique and special, just like people.

My advice until next time:  Please buy a plant; it will be good for you.

Thanks for reading,

Robin

PLANT BLOG #6

This week’s topic: An example of why NOT to be afraid of orchids! 


I have a very close friend who has no green thumb. Traditional houseplants shutter, flowers wilt, and even cacti fear her. About a year and a half ago, a mutual friend gave her an orchid. Not being in the position as I am now to help her, I wished her luck and thought the orchid had no chance of survival. From the leaves, it looked like a Phalaenopsis, which in theory is one of the longest lasting and easiest to grow orchid varieties.


For some reason, she had the plant at another less occupied house in the winter months and the heat was turned down. When visiting, she would religiously put about a teaspoon or so of water on it (as we learned reading the last blog, not the proper way to water an orchid) and was shocked and amazed after months of dormancy; a shoot and subsequent buds appeared. The result was an exquisite spotted white phalo that has maintained its blooms for nearly 4 months. 


This success made my friend offer to start growing phalos for Dr. Delphinium. While I, as the greenhouse manager, think that we shall stick to acquiring our orchids in quantities of more than one per year, her enthusiasm and newfound excitement of growing orchids is apparent. So if ever you are slightly apprehensive of growing orchids, please take a page from my friend’s book and just jump in: whether by accident or purpose. 


Thanks for reading,
Robin 

They're Here!

The anticipatory wait is over! That's right (you know what season it is'.) fall has arrived and so have our famous pumpkins! From sweet little minis to lush beauties, come in and get yours today.......before they are all gone!

IT’S STATE FAIR TIME!

While the majority of us will be eating our way through the fair this year (as we should), I wanted to remind you that there is a wonderful exhibit completely dedicated to plants. Located adjacent to the Texas Star is a greenhouse that houses landscape professionals and hosts lectures and discussions every Saturday and Sunday at 11, 1, 3 and 5 every weekend of the fair. There is a special event with Neil Sperry on Friday October 1st at 1 and 3 p.m. You can hear a variety of professionals; see wonderful landscaping by over 50 companies tending 100 beds. The Fall Garden Exhibition also includes work by 27 artists.
So if you have the inclination, go by and get some planting ideas or just look at the fabulous designs of plants and colors. Then please enjoy something deep fried!

Thanks for reading,
Robin

Featured Wedding

'Naranja' and Orange Unique" Roses give
depth to a monochromatic palette.

Here's some of my favorite shots from a gorgeous monochromatic Orange wedding we did back in June at the Hotel Crescent Court. The bride loved clean geometric shapes so we focused mainly on spheres, incorporating differing shades of Orange into the mix. Loved it!

We did a traditional Chuppah for the ceremony, but added in modern
Rose Orbs and candles on the floor for a romantic effect.

We mimicked the candle and Rose spheres aspect, but on a much smaller scale for the bar in the Crescent Club. All of the dark, traditional woods paired with bright and modern Oranges brought a fresh touch to a traditional space.

Low and clean all rose centerpieces
in differing shades of orange.

Amazing cake from La Duni. Our Orange
Unique Roses dusted with powdered
sugar emits such an ethereal effect.

The Dummies Guide to Rose Color Meanings

So often here at Dr Delphinium we are asked what each rose color means and to be honest I couldn't tell you the meaning of every color until now! I've put together this guide to help you (and me) out! Let's get started

Red - The undeniable, undisputable color of love. If you've been bitten by the love bug, shot with cupid's arrow, or just really want to let her know how much you care you can not go wrong with the Lovers rose.

White - Nothing says purity and innocence like the white rose. Therefore, it is customarily associated with marriages or new beginnings. The white rose also conveys a sense of reverence and is often used as an expression of remembrance.

Yellow - With its warm and sunny appearance, the yellow rose most often associated with friendship. A true friend brings happiness and joy to our lives, what better way to evoke those feelings with  this truly luminous rose.

Pink - When I think girly I think pink. Pink roses are  known to express a sense of elegance, refinement and an overall joyfulness. Whether they're a soft and graceful pink or a sassy hot pink number, pink roses are sure to impress!

Orange - Desire and passion can all be summed up with this fiery rose! It's bold color stirs of feelings of excitement and enthusiasm. What better way to spice things up?

Purple - Such a rare and magical rose, how could one not be enchanted by these purple beauties? No wonder they're often coupled with love at first sight.

And that is the end of our guide. I hope that this has helped you ( I know that it has helped me!) Shed some light on all these crazy rose color meanings. Happy rose giving!      ^MM

PLANT BLOG #2

Today’s topic: poisonous plants. Some plants while appearing friendly are really not. 


Some of the more common interior plants that are poisonous are Mistletoe, Diffenbachia, Ficus, Cyclamen, Peace Lily or Spath and Pothos as well as English Ivy. Care should be taken if you have animals or young children nibbling on these. These plants traditionally will not be fatal, but can irritate the mouth, skin and stomach lining. The Pencil Plant is a more harmful plant that can cause skin irritations wherever the milky sap touches it and can cause serious stomach and mouth issues if ingested. 


Two other highly poisonous plants that are not as widely known about are the ZZ plant as well as the Sago Palm. While all parts of the ZZ plant should be avoided from ingestion, only the seeds of the Sago are poisonous. These plants carry a dangerous level on the poison scale and they should be carefully monitored if around pets or children. 


If you have a plant concern or question, please e-mail me at robin@drdelphinium.com. 


Thanks for reading,
Robin

Summer Floor Change

Summer has arrived here at Dr. Delphinium! Upon stepping in the door, you'll be refreshed by our bright and bubbly design. Designers Kelley Faulkner and Heather Freeman have created a summer oasis that awakens the senses. Drawing inspiration from coral, sky blue, sunny yellow and delphinium blue, the floor evokes memories of a warm and lazy summer day at the beach.

PLANT BLOG #1

Plants have many similarities to people.  They grow, have needs and prosper in the right environments.  Plants provide many uses to humans, including medicine, food and wood.  Additionally, they provide fragrance, colors for dye, weapons, and a multitude of other applications. 

Plants indoors help both physically and mentally.  They help to improve air quality by reducing the amounts of mold and bacteria in the air, as well as clean the air by absorbing pollution from smoking and cleaning products.  Mentally, it has been found that plants in the workplace yield workers that are more productive. 

When I look at plants, I am happy.  I am amazed at their minimal needs while being so efficient.  I am mesmerized at what nature has created and how plants have evolved.  I don’t know where these blogs are going to take us, but I hope that I can write something that is educational and uplifting; the way I feel when I observe plants.

Thanks for reading,

Robin

PLANT BLOG #4

This week’s topic: DO NOT be afraid of orchids!

Some people are terrified of these absolutely exquisite flowers that have a lasting power of anywhere between 6-8 weeks. We have had some clients who have reported back to us that their orchids have maintained blooms for almost 3-4 months. I think that 4 months is a bit much to ask of an orchid, but I do think that for the money, an orchid is by far the best bang for your buck.

Helpful tip #1: Please don’t over water your orchid. Watering once every 10 days or so depending upon the variety is sufficient. Take your orchid still in it’s grow pot and submerge the pot into room temperature water for at least 2 minutes. Allow the plant to drain thoroughly before replacing in its decorative pot. I know a lot of you out there are saying at this point to put an ice cube on top of the moss. This might work in your particular situation and I know several very good friends who tell me that I am wrong, but newer research does indicate that the cold temperature of the water from the cubes can harm the roots by sending them into shock. So there you go, you have been forewarned.

Helpful tip #2: Do not repot your orchid when you get it home and it is in bloom. This will most certainly kill it. You only repot an orchid every 2 years or so and NEVER when it is in bloom. Repot after the blooming cycle is finished. Another no-no, please do not put your orchid into traditional potting soil. Just as bad as repotting, soil suffocates your orchids’ roots and will kill it as well.

Helpful tip #3: Keep your humidity up. These plants while used to growing in the forests do very well if there is at least a bit of water in the air. You don’t need to get some fancy humidifier; you can simply put a plate of water directly under the plant making sure that you don’t have any roots touching the water.

While I am sure that we are not going to have world wide orchid grower dominance, perhaps we will have given you the courage to step out of your comfort zone and try an orchid or two.

Thanks for reading,
Robin

PLANT BLOG #3

Today’s topic: Helping beat this HORRIBLE heat!

 Regarding this heat, we all know we have been saddled with these normally August temperatures since early June.  What is the best way to help out our container plants?

 If you are discussing indoor plants, people tend to water more in the summer and less in the winter because they mimic their outdoor watering.  However, you should be watering slightly less in the summer because your air is cooled and more in the winter when the heat is on and drying out your soil.

 Outside, you can add mulch to the top of your potted plants, which will help keep the moisture in, versus evaporating.  Second, you need to water thoroughly and depending on where the plant is located, you may be able to water less if a longer watering period is afforded.  A quick sprinkle will not get down to the roots and provide the water that the plant needs.

 Water outdoors in the early morning or late afternoon hours.  Watering during the day will not be very beneficial, because of the evaporation and run off due to the dry soil.  Additionally, watering at night can cause the foliage to be more susceptible to fungal diseases.

Gold Rush of 2010!

I'm totally on board for going neutral with refreshing shades of gold. Something about Gold and White, makes me feel refined and instantly classic.

Here's a snippet of ribbon from Romantic Ribbons

















Gorgeous Gatsby vases from Accent Decor. Imagine those filled with a mound of white Peonies!!




































In LOVE with this dress!






















Need to revamp a standard glass vase?
Try wrapping in several shades of gold ribbon.






















This is a design we did for Robbin's Brothers last month. Gold painted Magnolia Leaf Orbs, perched atop streamlined white vases. These are still usable a month later!!

Vote for us on Dmagazine's readers' choice poll 2010

Vote for Dr. Delphinium as the best florist in Dallas in DMagazine's Readers' Choice Poll 2010. Go to www.dmagazine.com and vote for us everyday from May 24th - June 6th. It would mean the world to us if you showed your support by voting for us everyday. We really try hard to put our customers first and would consider this such an honor if we were voted #1. So thank you ahead of time for voting for us and please remember you can vote once a day EVERY DAY from May 24th - June 6th!!!

Summer Design Workshop!!

Hey Friends, Wanted to let you know about our annual Summer Design Classes!!

We always have a blast, and learn alot doing it!!

June 30th
1:00-2:30
Floral Mechanics-Design a dozen Roses

July 7th
1:00-2:30
Floral Design Principles and Elements-Design a Modern Arrangement

July 14th
1:00-2:30
Use of Color-Design a Classic Arrangement

July 21th
1:00-2:30
Care of Flowers-Design a Corsage and Boutonniere

July 28th
1:00-2:30
Floral Identification-Design a Handtie Bouquet

August 4th
1:00-2:30
History of Ikebana (Japanese Style) -Design an Ikebana Style Arrangement

One Class: $150
Four Classes: $550
Six Classes: $800

**Bring a Friend and Receive a 10% Discount**

Contact Andrea to book @ 214-525-1202

Good Morning Texas Segment

Check my segment out from Good Morning Texas!!!

Thanks Minh for making all those gorgeous designs:)

The things we do.

So this weekend we had a fabulous time setting up the gorgeous Dana Giddens Wedding at the Crescent Court Hotel in Dallas. More amazing images to follow soon, I promise.

However, I couldn't not mention our lovely fountain canopy, designed specifically for shade on our Hydrangea Orb.

The Hydrangea held up beautifully for the evening ceremony.

It's Spring in our Store!!!

You simply must come in to our store!!! The sales floor has been re-dressed for Spring and I LOVE It!

Minh has been doing alot with Curly Willow. Notice the Light Fixture...

Fantastic Succulents...

If you have one....you really do need three:)

We still have some fabulous art left. This picture just does not capture the greatness of this painting.

Birch Anyone?

Who doesn't love a good hand sculpture?

Again, more amazing Curly Willow Light Fixtures. This one is bigger and complete with Green Flax leaves woven throughout the structure.

We would love to see you and of course fill your vases with flowers! Happy almost Spring!