Spring Sensation!

This bright arrangement would brighten up anyone's day with beautiful pink roses, tall birds of paradise just getting ready to open, green bells of Ireland which perfectly matched the container, loops of grass, and bright yellow star shipped lilies just waiting to draw in the viewer.

A spring birthday sensation!

Tulips, Veronica, and Ranaculus

Corsage: Ranaculus and Veronica

Bout. wrapped in galax leaf

Bouquet: tulips, ranaculus, veronica, peackock fan tail and trailing bow

Detail of bouquet

Testimonial

"Thank you so, so much for helping with our church dinner. The tulips were gorgeous, simple, and festive---just what we wanted. You are so talented and we are so grateful for your willingness to lend us your talent. Thanks again!"

Business flowers!

Recently I was asked if we do flowers for businesses? Of course we do!

We specialize in events like weddings and funerals, but we equally do as many corporate and business offices as well.

Our clients have included bed and breakfasts, restaurants, lawyers office, dental office, accounting office, web marketing office....just to name a few.

Most of these clients have also been men or in a male dominated office setting. In these types of situations we use far less cut flowers and feature blooming orchids and other beautiful plants that are not too feminine or too fragrant.

We would be happy to come in on a schedule of your choosing to help maintain and upkeep all of your arrangements.

RachaelWestDesigns.com
828.455.3774

On the road again! Part 3

By now you should all know that my talent is NOT in photography!
I do however love to take photos of flowers for ideas and inspiration. I love to see the talent and creative skills that other designers are using. These photos are from the Hilton hotel in Atlanta where we were staying and attending a business conference.

On the road again! Part 2

These fun contemporary arrangements were found in the Hilton Hotel in Atlanta.

On the road again! Part 1

The Omni Hotel by far as more impressive flower arrangements...umm, and in my opinion better customer service than the Hilton.

Youth Group

I recently had the opportunity to teach a youth church group how to make corsages. It was so fun to watch how every girl made their corsage individual and unique.
The class provided an opportunity to share how corsages are not just for your grandmother any longer and that by adding gemstones, pearls, lights, butterflies, and fun ribbons you can create a totally unique corsage to fit any girls trendy style.

Call 828.455.3774 for a list of our current classes.
www.RachaelWestDesigns.com

Sundance

I just ran across this photo I took last summer.
I love the contrast between the natural elements and the elegant lilies. Simply stunning!

Bridal Bouquet

The picture does not do this bouquet justice. The white star shaped lilies really opened up and popped throughout the day while the little blue delphinium buds were the perfect subtle contrast the grassy loops of grass.

Need help coming up with your perfect bouquet?
Give us a call! We have lots of ideas!
828.455.3774
www.RachaelWestDesigns.com

Click on the comments for this posting to read a very generous comment from our bride.

Tropicals?

Want the look of tropicals when you don't have tropical flowers on hand?
We have lots of tricks!!

www.RachaelWestDesigns
828.455.3774

Sweet Valentines!

This special flower arrangement was from Valentines Day. It consisted of 36 red roses, all of which were super-long except 3 snuggled in at the base of a heart made out of long grasses. Dripping off the front and side of the basket were chocolate bon-bons to add a little extra sweet to this already great treat!

Let RWD help you celebrate the little things in your life.
www.RachaelWestDesigns.com
828.455.3774

"You make people happy!"

A few years ago I delivered a flower arrangement to a gentleman. He had ordered them for his wife and had me deliver them to his office so he could surprise her with them. Just as I was walking out the door to leave he said, "You have the best job because you make people happy!"

He's right! I do have the best job because it not only makes other people happy, but it makes me happy!

I have written several times on the difference a flower can make on an individuals well-being because I have experienced that wonderful feeling on days when I was having a struggle.

Last week I was sitting in a doctors waiting room thumbing through a magazine. An article about this very topic was not only in the magazine, but they were quoting a study done at Harvard University which proved that having something as simple as a flower or two around you, especially first thing in the morning, really does improve your mood and spirit. It's certainly cheaper than anti-depressants and definitely better than eating a lot of chocolate!

Lead researcher Nancy Etcoff, Ph.D. at Harvard University states: "Interestingly, when we placed a small bouquet of flowers into their morning routines, people perked up."

RWD offers weekly contracts so that you can have fresh flowers in your home or office on a schedule you choose. We would love to make you happy too!
828-455-3774
www.RachaelWestDesigns.com

Think Spring!

I have been watching for several weeks not the tips of my flower bulbs peeking up through the mulch as if they were peering out to see if it's time. Not yet...but it's so very close!!

There is just something almost magical about spring. It's so wonderful to have this new awakening to not only nature but to our own spirits within..... and then, to add all those wonderful colors.....greens, yellows, purples, pinks! I just LOVE it!

If you are stuck indoors, don't forget that spring is really easy to bring indoors! There are so many bushes and trees that are starting to bloom. Bring in a few branches and watch them open up with joyful color.

Don't forget the flower bulbs either! How absolutely gorgeous is a simple tulip in a vase on your desk? Or a handful of daffodils on your counter? Ohh, and if you want a wonderful spring smell....don't forget the hyacinths. Just one or two stems will make a room smell.....well, all "springy!!"

Don't forget!
We can custom design the PERFECT spring arrangement for your home or office!
They make wonderful gifts and will uplift someone's spirits!
828-455-3774
www.RachaelWestDesigns.com

Flowers for Men

This past week I heard a story in the media that stated men do not like to get flowers for Valentines Day or for any other occasion. It shocked me because in the floral industry we are seeing a steady climb in the number of men who like to receive flowers....the trick as we have mentioned before is that it has to be done in a way that it is not fluffy and smelly.

The California Cut Flowers Association has a great article with some great ideas for flowers for men. And remember, a good florist will know how to incorporate natural elements, plants, grasses, moss, and even create arrangements in fun containers......ever thought of using a sports ball for a vase, a golf bag, adding golf tees to an arrangement, soda cans?

We suggest you give it a try....give us a call. Together we can design the perfect arrangement for your the favorite man in your life.

Rachael West Designs
828.455.3774

Testimonial

Rachel,

I'm soooo very happy about the invoice!!! I can't believe how beautiful it will all be at such an amazing price! Thank you so much! I'll send you a check for the total price this week. I've also found some examples of the colors in a magazine. Let me know when you're available to meet and show you. I can't wait to see it all come together.

Thanks again,
T.C
Hickory
February 08

Proper Centerpiece Height

This week I have been working on designing with a bride the perfect centerpiece for her wedding.

The arrangement she dreamed up is over-budget so we have been trying to re-design it to fit with-in her budget. Normally, that does not pose any trouble, but for some reason, this time it has been very complicated to find the right vase at the right price that also matches all the other needed components of the design.

We finally created a smaller version that fit all the parameters we had hoped, but then were presented with a new problem......now smaller, it would block the view of the seated dinner guests making dinner conversation very difficult.

SO, what is a good height for a tall table centerpiece?

Well, it's a great question, because even I, who have researched it out numerous times, found many different answers.

One tip I have used....and it's not scientifically proven, documented, or anything else---it's just easy for me to do, is this:

Sit up to the table. Place you elbows on the table, bring them together, as well as clasp your hands together. Rest your chin on the knuckles of your hands while sitting up nice and tall.

For a high arrangement, you do not want to go under your eye level. This usually tends to be a minimum of 18 inches and averages out around 22.

Again, this is just to give a general guideline and hopefully will help eliminate some of those awkward moments at a table.

Your flowers should be the accent of the table, not the biggest distraction.

We LOVE questions! Please feel free to send in yours and we will get them answered for you.
Rachael West Designs
828.455.3774
www.RachaelWestDesgins.com

Breathe Easy!

Have you ever wondered what it is that we are actually breathing each day?

It's no wonder that with all of the pollutants and chemicals in our world that we have so many individuals with unexplainable and confusing health problems.

A team of scientist along with NASA put together a list of household plants that not only look great in your home decor, but actually help make the air you breathe safer.

Benzene	Inks, oils, paints, plastics, rubber, dyes, detergents, gasoline, pharmaceutical, tobacco smoke, synthetic fibers	English Ivy, Dracaena marginata, Janet Craig, Warneckei, Chrysanthemum, Gerbera Daisy, Peace lily
Formaldehyde	Foam insulation, plywood, pressed-wood products, grocery bags, waxed paper, fire retardants, adhesive binders in floor coverings, cigarette smoke, natural gas	Azalea, Philodendron, Spider plant, Golden Pothos, Bamboo palm, Corn plant, Chrysanthemum, Mother-in-law's tongue
Trichloroethylene	Primarily used in the metal degreasing and dry cleaning industries; also in printing inks, paints, lacquers, varnishes, adhesives	Gerbera Daisy, Chrysanthemum, Peace lily, Warneckei, Dracaena marginata

(NASA researchers recommend using at least 1 potted plant per 100 square feet of home or office space to achieve better air quality).

Let us help you breathe a little easier!

We incorporate plants in many of our floral designs.

www.RachaelWestDesigns.com

828-455-3774

What should I bring to my wedding consultation?

If you are one of those brides who has had her wedding day planned since she was about 9 years old, please bring all of your photos, drawings, magazines, sketches, and any color swatches you may have that would help us envision your dream wedding perfectly.

However, many brides come to us for their wedding consultation not having a clue in the world what they would like for their wedding day. Not a problem!

In this situation, we will start with what you don't like. Most people, may not know exactly what they do like, but they definitely know what they don't like and that too helps us narrow things down a little bit. We also have plenty of photos, magazines, and ideas on hand to help out!

If you have specific questions or would like to book a wedding consultation, please call 828.455.3774 or fill out our contact us form located on our website.

Client testimonial

Thanks Rachael!
The flowers look beautiful and my sister loved them!

Thanks for sending the pictures.
~AnnM. Pennsylvania
January 08

Client testimonial

Dear Rachael,
Thank You So Much for the Beautiful Flowers! My husband's aunt has already told him there was a plant in there she can plant! They were just Beautiful! You are officially my Hickory,N.C. florist! You have been SO Sweet & did such beautiful & timely work!
Thank you so much! I Love Flowers & decorating! I'm trying to get some things changed around in my house. I might have to email you some pictures! I have a feeling we might have both made a new friend! Take Care. God Bless You!
Much Love, Joy
Alabama
January 08

the Perfect gifts!

Maybe coming up with the perfect gift is hard for you, or your just busy, and instead of the day being special, well, it's now a stress. So, this just isn't your thing.......well, it's ours!

So, let us help!! and you can take all the credit!

Need some ideas?
Here are some of the romantic surprises we have helped our clients with...

Pure Romance: Let us come decorate your home, bedroom, or hotel room with her favorite flowers. Roses petals, candles, chocolates, and a little bubbly are included in this package.

Pricing begins at $125.00, gifts, flowers and other add-on's additional.

Favorite Things: A perfect gift for someone who likes presents! We custom design a gift which incorporates her favorite things (you can provide the items or we can help) and fresh flowers in a fun and romantic fashion.

Basic gift packages begins at $75.00

All Wrapped Up: Take the perfect gift (you can provide the gift or we can help) and custom wrapped it using fresh flowers either in a box or a gift bag depending on gift. This is one of the hottest trends right now in the celebrity world. It has been featured on Oprah numerous times, so, if you want to make someone feel extra special by giving an extra gift within a gift, this is definitely the way to go. After all, you only get one chance to make a first impression!

Pricing varies based on gift. However, if you provide the gift, we can wrap it all up for as little as $14.99. This includes all wrapping materials, ribbon, and fresh flowers.

Sensual Spa: All the items you need to create a romantic spa night for your sweetie! Choose from lotions, oils, aromatherapy, candles, sea sponges, scrubs, and bubble bath. Flowers or rose petals included.

Basic gift package starting at $75.00.

Daddy's Little Girl*: Even the littlest girl needs a Valentine. We create a whimsical floral arrangement loaded up with bright colors, a soft and snuggly stuffed animal, and a vase full of candies. Perfect for a daddy to give to his little sweetheart.
*This package can be designed for teens or anyone who has a youthful heart!

Basic gift starts at $25.00+ Add a fun colored floral light for some extra fun and drama!

Theme Night*: Pick a theme, a location, and we'll completely transform the space into a magical retreat. We provide and set-up the food, dessert, decorations, fabrics, coordinating florals, and anything else that would help you create the perfect romantic evening. This night will definitely be one to be remembered!

*This package must be booked a minimum of 2 week before the date. Pricing determined based on scale of project.

All Flowers: Do you have someone with a favorite flower, color, style? Let us create that perfect floral arrangement designed just for you to give to someone special. Don't forget when you call to place your order to share with us some of her favorite things.....butterflies, "bling" like diamonds or pearls, and of course her style (simple yet elegant, over-the-top, adventurous, spicy) so that we can create the only flower arrangement she'll remember the rest of her life!

Pricing: Each of our packages is custom designed and completely unique. There truly are no 2 gifts or flower arrangements exactly a like. This is what sets us apart from traditional floral shops----we don't just mass produce. The advantage for you is that we design that perfect gift completely within your budget. This leaves no room for last minute "sticker shock!!" Generally pricing listed is a guideline to help you as a buyer create the best choice for you. Please feel to call us with any questions regarding our pricing.

Please note: We choose to limit our Valentine orders so that we are not just "mass producing" hundreds of orders. We go out of our way to personalize every single order so that it is special, one of a kind, and is made just for that special someone. Please place your orders early. We do not accept last minute orders.

Call Rachael West Designs, 828.455.3774 to place your order.
*Call for all the complete details. Our package orders are limited and fill up fast!
www.RachaelWestDesigns.com

Symbolism of Flowers

Here are a few of our favorites
to help you send the perfect message:

ROSES:

Red: I love you, unconscious beauty
Yellow: joy, gladness, friendship
White: spiritual love, purity
Orange: fascinated, enthusiastic
Pink: grace, gentility, perfect happiness


ALSTROMERIA: friendship, devotion
ASTER: charming, patience
BEGONIA: a fanciful nature
BELLS OF IRELAND: good luck, whimsy
CALLA LILY: sophistication, beauty
CARNATIONS: fascination, devoted love
CHRYSANTHEMUM: cheerfulness, innocence
DAFFODIL: regards
DAHLIA: dignity, elegance
FORGET ME KNOTS: true love
IRIS: faith, hope, wisdom
LILIES: purity, faith
LISIANTHUS: outgoing
ORCHIDS: seduction, preciousness
PRIMROSE: young love
SNAPDRAGONS: desire, strength
SUNFLOWERS: adoration, sunshine
TUBEROSE: dangerous pleasure
TULIPS: perfect lover, fame
VIOLET: simplicity

Travel Photos!

Here are some of the photos I have recently collected on my trips. Several are in Vegas and some in Nashville. Here is a sampling!! Collecting photos of arrangements whether it be online, photographs, or magazines is a great way to find inspiration for your own new and exciting works of floral art.

Detail of photo below

Bellagio Hotel Lobby

Hotel Preston Lobby

Wynn Hotel Entrance

Bellagio Conservatory
(House, trees, and snow, and all other details made completely with florals)

Details of above

Wynn Hotel
(Wall of single anthurium in bud vase)

Wynn Hotel

Wynn South Pool Garden

Corsages and Boutonnieres

A Hot Pink Wedding!

Even though this wedding was small and certainly not high-end, it worked!
By using a strong accent color like hot pink a little will go along way.

Let us be the accent of your special event.
www.RachaelWestDesigns.com