Flowers are a great way to let someone know that you are thinking about them. Although giving flowers is an established custom, there are still plenty of ways that you can get creative about giving this kind of gift.
The digital revolution has touched many aspects of life in the last 30 years, and flower giving is no different ? enter the virtual bouquet. Although never going to replace the real thing, a virtual bouquet still let's people know that you are thinking of them, and can be obtained and sent online from several different sources.
The calming influence of flowers can be enjoyed not just at home; in fact they are perhaps best enjoyed in situ (if you have the weather): for example, in parks, and botanical gardens. Take a loved one on a walk through a local nature spot to enjoy flowers in a natural habitat.
If you have access to the countryside, spring and early summer can provide plenty of opportunities for flower picking. There are conservation issues to consider with certain species, so if you are planning on picking your own, it is probably best to check this out online first.
If you are a denizen of the urban jungle, use the power of the Internet to have the flowers brought to you. Actually, you don't have to live in a city these days, as established companies like Interflora will deliver pretty much anywhere. Living in Bristol, and looking for flower? A quick search on florists in Bristol will bring up your local options.
Flowers always brighten a room, but of course do not stay fresh forever. Get the most of your blooms by carefully drying and pressing them, and you can then use them to make a special, personalised card to go with a fresh bunch.
If you are proposing, flowers can make an extravagant statement. Filling a hotel room with roses, or the bath with rose petals can create the perfect environment for popping that big question ? just make sure that your intended is not allergic!
If you perhaps don't have the budget for such extravagant statements, but are lucky enough to have a garden, a bit of forward planning can go a long way to creating a really special message. Try sewing a message of love with flower seeds in your garden in the spring, and watch the smile on the face of your partner when the flowers start to open.
Maricruz Tennill is the author of this article about flowers. If you live in Bristol, find florists in Bristol by looking online, where you'll find the details of suppliers like Interflora.
