First Come Flowers

Why Do Fresh Flowers Have To Last Forever?

 

 

Colorful Peonies - Fly Me To The Moon Florists

On my way to the shop this morning, I came across a bunch of old flowers sticking out of a garbage bag. AndI thought, "Why do fresh flowers have to last forever?"

Where in the world did we get that expectation? That in order for real flowers to be of any value they should never die. Why?

When magnolia trees burst into pale pink blossoms as if by magic near the edge of winter, we might wish they'd last longer. But then, what would be our sign that spring was on the way?

When you have a great meal, see a rainbow after a storm, or for me, hear Claire de Lune, I thoroughly enjoy it for as long as it lasts, then it's over. But that's okay, because I can play that tune again and again and again if I want.

If you're patient, you'll see another breathtaking sunset. Or return to that restaurant and have that same meal. But, if you had it for breakfast, lunch and dinner everyday, I wonder if it would retain that magic. Stop being quite as special as it once was.

That's how I wish we'd all feel about flowers. A thing to be enjoyed in the moment, for however long that moment lasts.

So now it's your turn, how do you feel about fresh flowers?

 Mimi

 

Behind the Scenes: Visit to Jamali Floral and Garden Supplies

Special events lighting - FMTTMF

Jamali Floral and Garden Supplies, a store in the New York City flower district, sells just about everything you need for a special event. Think Platinum Weddings.

I visited the store one rainy day and thought I'd share my trip with you. My pictures don't show every single category of the items they sell, so please don't blame me if I miss something.

 

Faux foliage and flowers - FMTTMF

They carry a selection of faux foliage and flowers. I guess these would come in handy if you were making a display you needed to last for a long time. Otherwise, fresh flowers and foliage would probably be cheaper. They have nice boxwood foliage in little pots. Perfect for a desk or lined up down the center of a table as a deconstructed centerpiece.

 

Sparkle for special events - FMTTMF

If it's sparkle you want, you've come to the right place. They've got sparkle galore. Chandeliers, candelabras, vases, bowls, votive holders, hanging spheres, etc. They also have amazing lights to enhance centerpieces and other displays.

 

Decorative lanterns - FMTTMF

If you follow me on Instagram, you've seen these gorgeous lanterns.  I love the intricate detail on them. You can place a candle inside or if you're feeling adventurous, a small plant or floral arrangement.

 

Modern metallic vases - FMTTMF

Jamali carries a nice selection of vases from the very small to the rather large. You''ll find vases of all kinds made from different types of materials. Think glass, wood, metal, acrylic, ceramic or resin. They also sell the French metal buckets we use at the shop. You can see more of their vases here.

 

Natural elements - FMTTMF

If you need baskets, shells, drift wood, rocks, stones, feathers or other natural items, Jamali has them. Glass beads and other decorative objects to place at the bottom of a vase can be found there as well.

 

Pink long-tailed birds - FMTTMF

Big Bird's somewhat daintier and pink cousins are waitng for you to stop by. These bad boys are pretty big. Jamaili is always on top of the latest trends. If it's on the runways or in the design magazines, it's at Jamali

Gold and silver vessels - FMTTMF 

If you're having an over the top special event, here's where you'll find all your fancy vessels. They come in gold, silver, copper, bronze, shiny or matte finishes. Just add flowers, and water of course.

 

Colorful candle holders - FMTTMF

Here are just some of the candle holders Jamali has in stock. By the way, if you find something there you really like, you'd better buy it soon, because it will proabably be gone by the time you get back. That goes for most things they sell. People come in and buy in huge quantities. And here's a tip: they may not get any more for a very long time. 

  

Moroccan-style lights - FMTTMF

Jamali doesn't usually carry lamps, but these were so cool I thought I'd let you see them. If you were doing a Moraccan themed party or design for a room these lamps would be perfect. They have lots of products related to a variety of themes.

 

Peacock feather wreath - FMTTMF

Been looking for a peacock feather wreath? They have it. Or at least they did when I took this picture. 

 

Colorful ribbon collection - FMTTMF

I have a little secret for you. Well two actually: 1) I love ribbon 2) If you need googobs of ribbon, try your local flower district stores first. Ribbon at Jamali is kind of expensive, but Central Floral Supply at 40 West 28th Street has great prices on double-sided satin ribbon. Tell Bruce, Mimi sent you. 

 

Floral design supplies - FMTTMF

You can buy fancy colored wires, raffia and all kinds of trendy floral design supplies at Jamali. If you're making floral bouquets for weddings, you can get everything you need here except for the fresh flowers that is. 

 

Hanging Bulb vases - FMTTMF

I found these cute hanging bulb vases here. I know I've seen DIY tutorials on how to make them, but if that's not your thing, relax, they've got you covered.

 

Jamali Storefront - FMTTMF

So if you're looking for inspiration for a special event or need to buy floral design supplies, Jamali is worth a visit. They're located at 149 W. 28th Street in New York City. You can also check out their website.

Where do you find your inspiration when you're decorating for special events?

Mimi