In Bloom Flowers Blog

How to care for poinsettias

2011-12-13T12:33:00.000-08:00

Nothing shouts Christmas like a big ol' poinsettia! The plant was initially known in the United States as “painted leaf” or “Mexican fire plant” until it eventually was named poinsetta pulcherrima, or “poinsettia,” in honor of of its “discoverer” Dr. Poinsett. There are also white, pink and dappled poinsettias. By the early 1900′s, they were sold as potted plants in California. Many poinsettias are still raised in the state, especially for use as Christmas gifts and decorations. The city of Ventura, California is even known as the Poinsettia City.

How to Care for Your Poinsettia

- Display your plants in a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the bracs.
- Avoid drafty locations, where either hot or cold air blows directly on your plant.
- The best temperatures for keeping are between 65 and 75 degrees. Do not expose your plant to temperatures below 50 degrees.
- Keep soil moist to the touch, but never allow it to become soggy, or allow your plant to sit in water.
- Fertilizer should not be required during the holiday season.

Happy Holidays!

Sushi Anyone?

2011-11-28T07:34:00.000-08:00

We hope y'all had a great Thanksgiving. Now that the turkey's all gone, how about some sushi? Not only does our sushi look good enough to eat, it's also a gift-within-a-gift! These fun sushi rolls are wrapped in leaves stuffed with colorful blooms. They are then presented on a pretty tray that can be used over & over.

Amazing Chocolates

2011-11-08T03:45:00.000-08:00

On a recent visit to New Orleans I came across this amazing shop called Sucre'. It's a feast for the eyes as well as the mouth. I had been in search of new sweets to offer our customers and happen to stumble across this. You never know when you're going to find what you've been looking for!

We're carrying the Indulge Chocolate Collection which includes malted milk, rhum, hazelnut cream, wedding cake and pb & j chocolates.

If you have a sweet tooth, this is the place to go. If you're not going to be in New Orleans anytime soon, stop by one of our shops for a box of these incredible chocolates.

Bridal Beauty Game Plan

2011-10-26T08:36:00.000-07:00

Every bride-to-be should live by the motto “always plan ahead.” Prepping your skin, hair, body, and mind for your wedding in advance is just as important as selecting the perfect gown and flowers. Check out this article on birchbox.com.

http://www.birchbox.com/the-haute-box/bridal-beauty-game-plan/

It's Homecoming Mum Season!

2011-10-18T09:52:00.000-07:00

When it’s homecoming season across the nation, only in parts of Texas and Oklahoma is it also homecoming mum season. Some students take homecoming mums just as seriously as the homecoming football game itself.

For the uninitiated, a homecoming mum is an oversized mum corsage decorated with three-foot long streamers in the school colors, bells, charms, banners, little plush animals done up in bows, sparkly letters, even Christmas tree lights.

It is usually worn in the middle of the chest like a breastplate with the streamers flowing down the front of the body almost touching the ankles. It is, in short, a fashion statement.

But homecoming mums are so much more than that. They are a sign that somebody loves you. They’re no longer given only by boyfriends. Mums can come from friends, your mom, dad, aunt, or even a booster boy (a boy-friend who is not your date).

Anybody who's anybody wears one, or two and can

weigh as much as 12 pounds!

Homecoming mums have become a status symbol for many junior high and high school students. Designs change every year. The more original, the better.

Bosses Day is October 16.

2011-10-11T11:29:00.000-07:00

National Boss Day is October 16 each year. When the holiday falls on a weekend, it is generally celebrated on the working day closest to October 16.

National Boss Day offers employees an opportunity to recognize those in supervisory positions. Popular ways to say "thanks" include cards, a lunch in the boss's honor, flowers, or gift certificates.

National Boss Day was started in 1958 when Patricia Bays Haroski, then an employee at State Farm Insurance Company in Deerfield, Ill., registered the holiday with the Chamber of Commerce of the United States. She designated October 16 as the special day because it was her father's birthday. Ms. Haroski's purpose was to designate a day to show appreciation for her boss and other bosses. She also hoped to improve the relationship between employees and supervisors. She believed young employees often do not realize the challenges bosses face in running a business.

Bridal Bouquets - Getting Attached to Specific Flower Types

2011-07-11T14:27:00.000-07:00

Not all flowers are available all year round. When planning your wedding flowers, it is best to think in terms of colors and shapes rather than specific flowers. If there are certain flowers that have a special meaning, or you just have to have, specify that flower but also ask your florist to suggest a back up.

Summer Design Contest

2011-06-21T05:59:00.000-07:00

Each of our designers were given a set of parameters to work within - same container, same price point, same set of flowers. Visit our contest page on Facebook and vote for your favorite design. The design with the most votes wins. But better yet, 3 lucky voters will be randomly chosen to win each win a $25 In Bloom Flowers gift certificate. Vote now!

Zinnias Are Here!

2011-06-13T12:51:00.000-07:00

Dazzling zinnia bouquets have just arrived! Be the first of your friends to pick up a bunch. Only $12.95. Once they’re gone, they’re gone! Stop by your nearest In Bloom Flowers today. Plano . Arlington . Carrollton . McKinney . Lewisville . Dallas http://www.inbloomflowers.com/aboutus.asp#3

Wedding Season Color Trends

2011-04-19T14:37:00.000-07:00

The hot colors this wedding season are apple green, hot pink, coral, orange, yellow and turquoise. The colors are so bright and vibrant - you gotta love 'em!

New Location in McKinney TX

2011-03-28T10:20:00.000-07:00

Our flower shop in McKinney TX has a new home! We're up on the hill in Craig Crossing, Eldorado Pkwy & 75, next to Panera Bread. Stop in to say hello. We hope to see you soon.

Send a dozen, get a dozen FREE!

2011-02-02T08:21:00.000-08:00

Check out our Valentine's Day special -- Send a dozen, get a dozen FREE! Click here for more details about this great offer and remember to show your sweetie how much you care this Valentine's Day.

What Is this?

2011-01-13T03:06:00.000-08:00

Our talented staff is busy doing something. What do you think this is???

Here Comes the Bride

2011-01-03T10:18:00.000-08:00

Getting married? Congratulations! Planning a wedding can be a time of extreme excitement, yet somewhat stressful. Following are some helpful tips to reduce stress and have fun planning.

- Choose a theme that reflects the personalities of you and the groom. Discuss what each of you envisions for your wedding day. You will know you've hit on your theme when you're both excited about it.

- Identify your style. Look through bridal magazines. You'll get lots of ideas. Now close your eyes and imagine your perfect wedding. This will give you a sense of your "style". Is it traditional or contemporary? What colors do you envision? Carry your style through from your invitations to your wedding dress, wedding flowers and reception.

- When you're ready to talk about your flowers, schedule an appointment with a reputable florist. The more information you can bring to your consultation, the better.

Bring a photo of your wedding dress and the bridesmaid's dresses. Bring a sample of any fabric if you have it. If you have pictures of your bridal and/or reception flowers from magazines that depict your style, bring them as well. If you're not sure what style you'd like, ask your florist for suggestions.

It's not too late to order Christmas flowers!

2010-12-23T15:00:00.000-08:00

Click here to check out all of our beautiful Christmas arrangements. Or call 972.256.6637 to place an order for delivery now.

"Frost" your way through the Holidays with In Bloom's Holiday Arrangement Video Series

2010-12-17T08:51:00.000-08:00

Be sure to check out all 8 videos, and you're sure to be a pro at "frosting" any table setting!

Happy Holidays everyone, from all of us here at In Bloom Flowers!

Holiday Arrangement Video Series

2010-12-13T12:24:00.000-08:00

We've officially kicked off our Holiday Arrangement Video Series and will be posting new videos every day this week! Check back for easy, fun ways to decorate your table setting with things you already own, and add a bit of festive flair to your home this year!

Here's a special sneak peak of what's to come:

Monday: Use extra ornaments, a punchbowl, and festive Christmas greenery to create a fun and easy table setting
Tuesday: Make it a REAL Texas Christmas with this non-traditional center piece idea (definitely a conversation-starter!)
Wednesday: Simple and elegant -- a beautiful white hydrangea and a festive vase create the perfect centerpiece for any table
Thursday: New uses for all that tarnished silver
Friday: Festive and unique table settings perfect for parties and family dinners

Check out our YouTube channel to watch all of these videos, and don't forget to sign up for your own Mystery Coupon. With all of these great centerpiece ideas, you'll want to stock up on some beautiful flowers!

Festive Centerpieces

2010-12-10T07:53:00.000-08:00

Exciting things are happening here at In Bloom! In addition to our Facebook Mystery Coupon Promotion, we're also gearing up for our Holiday Arrangement Video Series. We just posted our first video of several, so click here to check it out our YouTube channel for easy ways to dress up your table or centerpieces for the holidays.

Mystery Promotion on Facebook

2010-12-08T06:02:00.000-08:00

Check out our Facebook Fan Page at www.facebook.com/inbloomtx to take advantage of our special Fan Promotion going on throughout December!

Mother-in-Law's Day is October 24

2010-10-15T08:16:00.000-07:00

If you missed Mother's Day in May, here's another chance to honor your beloved Mother-In-Law. The source of many jokes, a mother-in-law doesn't usually get the praise and appreciation she deserves.

Mother-in-Law's Day is celebrated on the 4th Sunday in October. This tradition began January 23, 2002. It is similar to Mother's Day in that it is a day to celebrate motherhood.

At a loss for words? Following are some endearing messages for you to use.

You're unique!

You're one of a kind!

You're a terrific mother in law,

and I'm so glad you're mine!

Happy Mother-In-Law’s Day!

A bouquet of wishes

for a day that's as special as you!

I chose your daughter

to be my wife,

little expecting

there would be the bonus

of a mother-in-law

as special as you.

Happy Mother-In-Law’s Day!

Hello Kitty

2010-09-23T13:03:00.000-07:00

Everyone is familiar with Hello Kitty, but do you know how this adorable character came about? In 1974, Tokyo-based Sanrio asked designer Ikuko Shimizu to invent a cartoon animal who would appeal to the preteen girl in everyone. Sanrio needed the new critter to decorate a plastic coin purse it was planning to produce. Thirty-six years later Hello Kitty can be found on greeting cards, clothing, school supplies, dolls and home appliances.

Many of us at In Bloom think Hello Kitty is adorable (we may be on in years, but we're young at heart). When Ty came out with their line of Hello Kitty plush, we knew we had to have it!

Grandparents Day Poem

2010-09-08T09:48:00.000-07:00

Grandparents' Day Poem

Grandmas and Grandpas are everything nice.
Like presents and candy and raspberry ice.

And chocolate fudge sundaes, with cherries on top.
And popcorn and peanuts and grape soda pop.

In winter or summer, in rain or in sun,
Grandmas and Grandpas are wonderful fun!!!
- By Unknown Author

Grandparents Day - September 12, 2010

2010-09-07T15:04:00.000-07:00

National Grandparents Day was initiated by Marian McQuade, a housewife in Fayette County, West Virginia. Her primary motivation was to champion the cause of lonely elderly in nursing homes. She also hoped to persuade grandchildren to tap into the wisdom and heritage their grandparents could provide. In 1978, President Jimmy Carter proclaimed the National Grandparents Day would be celebrated every year on the first Sunday after Labor day.

For some interesting facts about Grandparents, go to http://www.grandparents.com/gp/content/opinions/from-the-editors/article/surprising-facts-about-grandparents.html

Contest Winners

2010-09-07T13:59:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the winners of our Back to School Contest. Thank you to all who entered and all who voted. Check out the winners and their stories at http://apps.facebook.com/promotionshq/contests/52256/prize_giving

Back to School Contest

2010-08-24T06:31:00.000-07:00

Enter our Back to School Contest for a chance to win 1 of 4 prizes. From your first day of Kindergarten to your first day of college, we're sure you have stories to tell. Parents, students, and teachers are all welcome to share their funny, touching or even embarrassing stories.

Vote for your favorite stories. We're giving away two floral arrangements from In Bloom Flowers and two gift baskets from Goodies from Goodman.

Click on the title above to enter today!

Expressing Sympathy

2010-07-28T13:06:00.000-07:00

The natural beauty of flowers at a funeral or at the home of the mourners brings a sense of warmth and comfort to the bereaved. Sending flowers are one way to express your love and respect for the deceased and concern for the family members. Quite often we are asked what is appropriate to send to a funeral. Standing sprays, flower baskets, individual plants and garden plant baskets are all appropriate. Sprays and flower baskets can be customized using the deceased's favorite colors or flowers.

Sending flowers to the family's home is a common trend and a thoughtful way to express your sympathy. Some people send flowers to the home immediately, while others prefer to wait a week or more. Gift baskets filled with food are also a comforting reminder during the grieving process that friends & colleagues have not forgotten.

It's easy to be at a loss for words when it comes to expressing your condolences. Following are some commonly used phrases that you may want to consider...

- Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time
- Our deepest sympathies during your time of loss
- [Name] will always be in our our hearts and memories
- With deepest sympathy
- May the peace which comes from the memories shared, comfort you now and in the days ahead
- We wish to express our sympathy for your loss and to let you know that our thoughts are with you

Make Someone Smile

2010-07-19T17:11:00.000-07:00

Experience the joy of making someone smile. This Wednesday, July 21, come by one of our 7 flower shops for a FREE rose. Pass it on to a friend, or a complete stranger, and enjoy their reaction!

A study conducted by Rutgers University, shows that flowers improve the emotional well-being of recipients. They have an immediate impact on happiness; they celebrate togetherness which leads to increased contact with friends & relatives; and the floral recipient likes to share their flowers by displaying them in open areas of their home or office. Click here for additional information on this topic.

Summer Sale!

2010-07-13T01:12:00.000-07:00

This is our first ever Summer Sale. Two days only - July 13 & 14. Everything on our web site is 20% off. Click here for details.

Design Ideas Using In Bloom Flowers Summer Rose Special

2010-07-09T11:41:00.000-07:00

Simply Elegant

2010-07-02T08:24:00.000-07:00

Our last post featured a very cool and intricate wedding bouquet. We also wanted to show you a bridal bouquet that is simple, elegant and beautiful.

This white hand-tied rose bouquet is beautifully wrapped with silk ribbon adorned with jewels.

One Very Cool Bridal Bouquet

2010-07-01T09:58:00.000-07:00

Wedding season is in full swing and we wanted to share some photos with you.

We love when brides let us get creative! This bouquet features a succulent called Hens & Chicks, blush colored roses, white lisianthus, hydrangea and green amaranthus. After speaking with the bride about her style and preferences, she let our designer roll with it.

If you'd like to see more photos of wedding flowers, click here.

Our First Post

2010-06-24T12:40:00.001-07:00

Hello and welcome to In Bloom Flower's Blog. Our goal is to provide you with interesting and informative information about us and flowers in general.

We don't mean to be forward, but we need to boast just a little. Once again Teleflora has ranked In Bloom Flowers as a Top 50 florist in the U.S. We were also recently named a member of Teleflora's President's Club. A huge "thank you" goes to our wonderful customers for trusting us with their floral orders. And to our dedicated staff for their unparalleled customer service, creativity and can-do attitude.