Dahlias

To me, there is no flower more “fall” than a dahlia! These beautiful, round blooms come in a wide variety of colors from pale whites and creams to deep, rich burgundies! Dahlias are sure to add a unique touch to any arrangement when used as a focal flower.

Celosia

There are three varieties of celosia–coxcomb, plume, and spicata–and each is well-loved here at Fantasy Florist! The wide variation in shape and color makes celosia a versatile choice for arrangements, and it can be used for almost any occasion! 

Marigolds

The namesake golden color of marigolds is the perfect complement to a warm, rich fall color scheme! These flowers add a touch of brightness and contrast to the deep reds and browns that herald the fall. They also have a unique fragrance!

Strawflower

If you’re looking for a more unique fall filler, strawflower is one of our favorites! This small flower comes in a wide array of colors and hues, and its distinct texture helps it stand out among the autumn blooms. It’s a natural complement to other fall flowers!

Zinnias

Last in the alphabet but certainly not least, the zinnia is a fantastic flower to add to any fall arrangement! Like the dahlia, it comes in many colors, but it’s smaller and more rounded. It’s well suited to arrangements both big and small!

If these flowers are calling your name, then good news! All of these fall flowers are available from local farms through our partnership with Old Dominion Flower Cooperative. Whether it’s an autumn birthday, a back-to-school gift, or just because you love the fall, order your autumnal arrangement today!

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There are a few flowers that actually start blooming before spring. Anemones, amaryllis, and ranunculus are all winter flowers, and all three stay vibrant in the spring. Hellebores, an evergreen plant, also blooms during March, and daffodils and poppies both start waking up around this time. 

As we drift later into April and the weather warms up, you’ll start to see some garden favorites! Bleeding hearts, bluebells, and bachelor buttons bring unique touches to arrangements, and they flourish in April. For a very short time this month–only a week or two–lilacs also blossom. And if there’s one flower that symbolizes spring, it’s tulips! April brings a vast variety of tulips to the shop, and each one is uniquely beautiful!

After winter, early spring flowers are truly Mother Nature’s gift to us. Our Spring Designer’s Choice is a perfect way to enjoy this gift!

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I’ve never been the type to make New Years’ Resolutions. If I do, I always start strong on January 1st…and fall flat on January 2nd. So instead, I’ve started thinking about my goals more abstractly, in a wider sense that can be applied to almost everything with ease. I’m able to meet the goals I set because the end result is flexible and open to interpretation.

I also try to use the last year as a jumping off point; if a certain thing went well for me this year, it’s a way to congratulate myself and keep doing that thing well.  For example, this year, I’ve let my creativity and sensibility as an artist grow thanks to learning how to design flower arrangements. I want to keep that creativity up in the new year, so my goal will be to do as many artistic and creative things as I can, whenever I get the opportunity to do so.

Above all, though, I find it important to think about the impact I want to make on the world around me. This year has shown me that more than anything, a simple act of kindness can turn someone’s day around. This morning, I was pulled over on the highway due to a minor fender bender, and I was freaking out a fair bit while on the phone with my mother. A gentleman pulled over and asked if there was anything I needed; even though I ended up turning him away, his patient smile and kind words were enough to settle my nerves and get the car moving. 

This year, I want to be like that gentleman who pulled over for me. My biggest goal is to be kind, whenever and wherever the opportunity presents itself. I want to make sure that if there’s someone in need of a friendly smile and some gentle words, I’ll be able to give it to them. I hope that the year ahead is one of peace, and I hope that we all get a chance to give and receive some kindness.

Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year from all of us at Fantasy Floral!

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The History of Holly

What we think of as “normal” holly is actually just one member of a much larger genus of plants! All 570+ members of the Ilex genus can be referred to as holly, and the genus includes both evergreen and deciduous plants. “Normal” holly is Ilex aquifolium, and it has those bright red berries and spiky leaves that have become a universal symbol of Christmas.

The use of holly as a Christian symbol began in medieval times. The plant’s spiky leaves evoke the crown of thorns worn by Jesus, and the plant maintains its vibrant color throughout the cold winter. Ancient Celtic peoples also used holly to celebrate the winter solstice, revering its beauty during the darkness of winter. When considered in tandem, it’s no surprise that these two separate traditions led to holly being the symbol of winter holidays!

Holly in the Modern Era

Today, holly retains its status as an iconic Christmas symbol, even as the holiday has become more popular in the non-Christian mainstream. Its vibrant red and green colors match with the red of poinsettia plants, the green of fir trees, and of course, the red of Santa’s suit! Lots of people use holly in place of mistletoe, whether that’s by mistake or because they like the look better. If the plant you’re standing under has red berries, that’s holly!

For me, the place where holly shows up the most around the holidays is in music! The obvious one is “Deck the Hall,” originating from a Welsh tune with lyrics added in 1862. (Fun fact: the plural “Deck the Halls” is a later variation that didn’t show up until thirty years after the original lyrics were written!) My personal favorite is “The Holly and the Ivy,” a traditional British carol dating back to the early nineteenth century. The first verse concludes with the line “Of all the trees that are in the wood, / The holly bears the crown,” and to me, that could not be more true! And you can’t forget “Holly Jolly Christmas,” even if holly’s just used for a rhyme. 

Have I sold you on holly yet? If you’d like some holly jolly holly in your holiday dinner centerpiece, just give us a call!

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An evergreen is exactly what it sounds like: it’s a plant that keeps its foliage all year round! They’re the opposite of deciduous plants, which lose their leaves every winter and grow them back in the spring. Today, I’m going to spotlight how evergreen plants find their uses in arrangements.

Fir

You’re probably familiar with fir trees as the typical Christmas tree, but did you know that these branches have a place in arrangements too? Both Frasier and Douglas fir boughs make great additions to arrangements. There are all sorts of other fir varieties that we love to use as well. And since they’re so evocative of Christmas, firs look especially lovely in a centerpiece for a holiday dinner!

Pine

With longer needles than that of the fir trees, pine makes a beautiful addition to winter arrangements! The needles have a unique look that lend themselves to more artistic arrangements. They also help to make an arrangement feel more natural and almost garden-grown. We don’t just use the needles, though! The iconic pinecones can also be used in arrangements, and they’re perfect for achieving that fall and winter vibe!

Cedar

Cedar boughs have a distinct shape from firs and pines, and they tend to be lighter in color as well. These beautiful branches lend themselves to arrangements of any kind, not just holiday flowers! If you’re looking to send a birthday or anniversary arrangement but want to take advantage of beautiful winter plants, cedar may be the branch for you!

Juniper

You’re probably most familiar with juniper from its fragrance and its bright blue berries, but this plant also looks gorgeous in floral arrangements! The leaves have that classic evergreen look to them, and the berries complement arrangements with cool hues quite well. Plus, the berries have a frosty look to them that just screams winter!

Mistletoe

There’s no plant more evocative of the holidays than mistletoe! (Except maybe holly…but that’s getting its own post!) This plant, which grows parasitically on other trees, is a great addition to a holiday arrangement. The white berries of American mistletoe complement the whites of winter. A perfect pairing for a romantic holiday arrangement!

If you’re curious about the evergreens we have in stock or want to order an arrangement with them, just give us a call!

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We continue to explore ways to implement sustainable practices at our shop. One of the most damaging things to the planet in the US floral industry is flying in 80% of our flowers from other countries. That’s why we are so excited to source some of our flowers from local regenerative family farms. I follow many flower farmers on Instagram, but one of my favorites is @BlossomAndBranchFarm. Last fall she posted this reel about creating arrangements out of dried elements during the winter when fresh flowers aren’t growing.

For me it’s the floral equivalent of canning. Homesteaders living off the land grow an abundance of vegetables so they have enough fresh produce to eat during the summer and enough to can and store to eat in the winter. I know a chef who is dedicated to only selling food that is locally sourced. A customer was complaining that his hamburger didn’t have a tomato on it. The chef patiently explained that tomatoes don’t grow in Virginia in January.

Obviously using only dried elements during the winter isn’t practical for us, but the idea has really stayed with me. This year we are experimenting with adding more dried elements to our arrangements as we find a balance between practicality and sustainability. Here are some of the dried elements we have in the shop!

Grasses

One thing we love to utilize in arrangements is texture, and grasses are an excellent way to add some! Most plants get brittle and crisp when they’re dried, but pampas grass and miscanthus grass stay soft and fluffy! Zebra grass’s unique markings make any arrangement stand out, and we also love to use bunny tails for little pops of texture.

Greens

Greenery isn’t just green! When dried, some of the foliage we use in our arrangements take on completely new colors. For instance, grevillea, which can be tinted orange or red, fades when it’s dried, bringing a muted color to the arrangement. And while most people think of the green, shiny side of magnolia leaves, we love to use the brown, suede-like underside as well! 

Grains

Grains are another dried element we love to use in arrangements! While the main use of wheat, millet, and sorghum is food, they also have a place in the floral world. These grains give arrangements a rustic look and can even be dyed to take on unusual colors!

Seeds

Seeds come in all shapes and sizes, and we love to use them all! The unique shapes of seedbox and lotus pods lend themselves to artistic arrangements. Pinecones are a symbol of fall and winter, and we especially love to use them in holiday centerpieces! 

As you can see, dried elements come in a variety of colors and textures. They will be a fun addition to our winter and holiday arrangements this year!

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Celosia

Celosia comes in several varieties that all look very different, including coxcomb which some describe as a Dr. Seuss flower. The things all varieties have in common are that they come in vibrant colors and very cool textures. Celosia is a fun addition to summer arrangements lending a very unique quality.

Dahlia

Dahlias are a late summer/early fall favorite! Just when I think I’ve seen every color imaginable in a dahlia, our local flower farmers will deliver a variety I’ve never seen before. While not inexpensive, these large focal flowers deliver a lot of bang for their buck. Dahlia season has just started so follow our social media accounts to see the unique varieties we receive each week.

Gomphrena

The first time I saw gomphrena, it reminded me of the white clover that grew in most of our yards when I was a little girl (back in the dark ages!). Gomphrena is bigger than white clover but still small enough to be a great filler flower that adds fun color and texture. We’ll continue to get gomphrena from now through the end of the summer.

Chocolate Lace Flower

This burgundy-chocolate colored Queen Anne’s Lace has become a summer favorite this year. Its rich luxurious color combined with its ethereal lacey look adds whimsical texture to arrangements.

Lisianthus

For those that like the romantic delicate look of peonies and ranunculus, lisianthus will quickly become a favorite. It has a smaller bloom like ranunculus and comes in gorgeous colors. It’s particularly popular with brides in their bridal bouquets.

Marigold

Last summer when we received our first marigolds from our local flower farmers, we all fell in love! A perfect circle of vibrant color, they add brightness and grace to any arrangement.

Monarda

For me, the best thing about Monarda (also known as bee balm) is that the bees LOVE this plant! I love watching the bees in my pollinator garden each morning while I enjoy a cup of coffee. The bees hop from the veronica to the coneflower to the skull cap, but they linger and return to the bee balm. The tiered blossoms are a fun addition to arrangements.

Sunflower

Probably our most requested flower, it’s hard not to smile when you see sunflowers. Aptly named, they are sunshine in floral form. Our local Old Dominion Flower Cooperative farmers grow a lot of varieties that we had never seen, including this fuzzy teddy bear sunflower! If you’re looking for something fun to do on a day off, check out your local sunflower fields. They are the perfect photo-op backdrop!

Zinnia

Recently I have committed to having only native perennial flowers in my yard that are mostly pollinator favorites. The exception this year has been zinnias. I just love everything about them! Although just an annual, they are prolific bloomers, especially if you deadhead them. And they come in such unusual and vibrant colors. For all the reasons my deck is loaded with pots of zinnias, they are the perfect addition to our summery arrangements.

Our most popular arrangement continues to be our Signature Designer’s Choice. Whether you are ordering online or placing an order over the phone, be sure to request one or several of our favorite summer flowers!

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Tulips

Photo credit: Travel Photographer on Negativespace

To me, there’s no flower that says “spring” like tulips! These beautiful flowers shine on their own in arrangements like Totally Tulips, but they also work very well mixed in with other spring flowers. One of my favorites is the Tulipris, which pairs pastel colored tulips with vibrant irises!

Hyacinths

Photo credit: Piqsels

If I had to pick a favorite spring flower, I’d pick the hyacinth! This flower offers a unique look to arrangements like the Christine, and it comes in all sorts of beautiful spring colors. My personal favorite is the pink hyacinth pictured above!

Peonies

Photo credit: pixel2013 on Pixnio

Around this time of year, the most requested flower is the popular peony! This flower isn’t in season quite yet, but its time to shine is coming up soon. Peonies are definitely on the more expensive side, but they’re absolutely gorgeous in arrangements like the Penny!

ODFC

This year, we’re extremely excited to once again partner with Old Dominion Flower Cooperative to bring you locally grown seasonal flowers! ODFC always supplies beautiful, unique flower varieties, and it’s always exciting to get their deliveries. In terms of early spring flowers, we’ll soon have access to anemones, daffodils, and hellebore, along with so many others!

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I did my best to recreate all the little details as faithfully as I could. Though I had to take some artistic liberties, I got pretty close, right down to the coffee machine in the corner and our Alexa in the back. The only thing I wasn’t able to make was the big display in the center of our shop. I puzzled over it for hours before settling on a large display of lilies and other white flowers. I realized something when I headed into the shop the next day. I couldn’t recreate the center display exactly because it’s constantly changing with the seasons! Our most recent display was this lovely Christmas scene, but we’re swiftly preparing for the red and pink of Valentine’s Day.

As the seasons and holidays change, our supply of decorations comes in handy. We’ll revamp the window display, the center display, and the smaller accents around the shop. I love going through everything we have and seeing what to use. I find something new every time I go through our boxes! My favorite season to decorate for is spring. We have lots of adorable little animals that go well with the pastel colors of the season. Every time we decorate, the goal is to make our shop as inviting and unique as possible, down to the smallest touches.

Whether it’s tinsel and evergreens for winter, pink and red hearts for Valentine’s Day, or multicolored eggs for Easter, there’s always something beautiful to find at Fantasy Floral. Stop into the shop one of these days. You’ll never see the same decorations and displays twice!

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While we are usually able to get them year round, fall is definitely sunflower season. When I think of fall, I think of Halloween and scarecrows and sunflowers! When I think of fall colors, I think of sunflowers. When I think of fall weekend excursions, I think of visiting sunflower farms. Lately, when I think of baby announcements, I think of the new mom-to-be in the middle of a field of sunflowers. A field full of these bright flowers just oozes joy and laughter and the promise of good things to come.

If you’re dreaming of being surrounded by crisp fall air, brilliant fall colors, and a field of sunshine, here are some farms that you can visit!

Burnside Farms, Nokesville, VA

Fields of Flowers, Purcellville, VA

Snead’s Asparagus Farm, Fredericksburg, VA

Valley View Acres, Middletown, MD

Sunflowers of Lisbon, Woodbine, MD

Happy Fall! As you excursion into fall, we’d love to see your photos like our cover photo courtesy of Ryan Thompson. Just tag us on Facebook or Instagram!

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