We had a blast at the first Bella Florals floral class. We started the day out in my kitchen drinking spa water and coffee and getting to know each other. Then Jolene (pictured above), Marge, and I went to my now cleaned out garage and got to work. I discussed the care and conditioning of flowers, went over the agenda for the day, and discussed the elements and principles of floral design. Then we got to work! First arrangement was a centerpiece made with floral foam. It was

We are hosting a few beginning floral design workshops in June and July. They will be held at Dayna's farm in Donegal (Turnpike Exit) and are great for DIY brides and flower lovers. In the workshop, we will be teaching flower care and handling, estimating stem counts for purchase, the best way to buy flowers, and the elements and principles of design. The students will create two arrangements - a simple, easy, and economical centerpiece using a dish and foam, and a lush hand-

Floral sustainability, sounds like an oxymoron since fresh flowers are expensive and they unfortunately die. Until recently, it has been the norm to use fresh flowers for weddings. Some may use silks and do their wedding diy however, if you want that Pinterest worthy look and feel for your wedding, most prefer fresh and to use a florist with the bride's vision in mind. What I have noticed lately now that I've moved out of the Silicon Valley to the Pittsburgh, PA area is that

Recently, Peggy, a good friend of mine talked me into working with permanent botanicals otherwise known as silks. I haven't had much experience with them and haven't been too convinced that the market would want them. Peggy showed me on Etsy how florists are creating wedding arrangements and selling them. I decided to give it a try. This is one of my first cascade bridal bouquets with peonies, garden roses, and lots of greenery. Silk flower bouquets are great especially if th