Sending Smiles ~

The Power of Flowers and My Retirement

2023-04-19T12:59:00.002-04:00

Wow, I can't believe how long it's been since I wrote on a subject for this blog. For those that don't know,
my husband and I have closed our shop and retired! I'd like to say that I miss running the shop but for almost 8 months now we have been thoroughly enjoying having time to our selves to putter around the house, travel, meet up with friends and just be ourselves.

So what has inspired me to write again? Well, I'm in the process of writing a book!! Yes, it's a book about which I feel highly qualified to write and the topic is "How to Choose a Wedding Florist". After years of helping hundreds if not thousands of couples plan their wedding flowers, I'm putting together an eBook that will help them choose a florist, save time, money and frustration. I'm taking all the things I learned as well as all the things I saw my couples do both wrong and right and sharing them with others.

The book is almost done but I'm currently writing a chapter about the "Feeling of Flowers" and it got me to thinking what powerful feeling invokers flowers are. I know this blog was all about everything we did at the shop for those 34 years and nothing was more important than how flowers made our clients feel. How did someone feel receiving flowers? How did the sender feel about giving flowers as a gift? How did couple choose their flowers for their wedding? Did they try to please themselves or please their guests?

There isn't much I miss about the day to day of running a flower shop but thing I do miss is being near

those gorgeous blooms. Just seeing them everyday made my life better. I still consider myself lucky to have been in a career that not only provided a livelihood for my husband and I, but made so many people happy. I could share story after story of how flowers changed lives and brightened the world of our clients.

In the future, I might be inspired to write more entries in this journal but if you'd like to take a peek at my life now feel free to jump over and follow my new blog "The Retired Florist". I'll also be sure to share a link to my book when it becomes available on Amazon. Have a great day everyone!

Sunny Sunflowers ~ Grown in New Jersey in Season Now!

2021-07-28T15:20:00.000-04:00

Our designers always love Sunflower season because let's face it, they are such a happy flower, right? Check out these new designs using local sunflowers. Our best selling Sunflower/Summer design is Sunny Shores. This design just screams summer. Deep blue delphinium, vibrantly yellow roses, light blue hydrangea, yellow alstromeria, beachy grasses and fresh locally grown sunflowers are arranged in a clear glass grace vase with real sea shells on the bottom. This design has been our best seller on our website at www.sendingsmiles.com

We've sold more Sunny Shores on our website than any other new design so far this July but a close second is our new and updated Sunny's Charm. This design is super affordable at only $34.99 and includes sweet baby's breath, white daisies and 3 gorgeous sunflowers arranged in the cutest little mason jar tied with a raffia bow. not only are local sunflowers pretty because because they are grown locally, they have a very long lasting vase life. When in doubt, go local!

Last but not least is our updated Sunny Sunflower design which features local sunflowers too. This arrangement really focus's on the long stemmed sunflowers. Accented with fever few daisies and even solidago, this design comes in a very pretty clear glass vase and stands over 22" tall. When choosing this arrangement you can upgrade to a deluxe or premium version which means it gets bigger and bigger - Wow!!

With so many occasions happening over the the summer such as birthdays, anniversaries and even graduations, these local grown sunflower designs are the perfect gift. Do you know someone who is feeling under the weather? We think sunflower arrangements are the perfect choice of flower. Not only because they are so lively and long lasting but also because studies show that the color yellow helps to speed healing. Want to send something sweet for a sympathy? Don't shy away from these pretty local sunflower designs. Sunflowers are the perfect choice to send for both memorials or as sympathy floral designs sent to the home.

Do you want to become a "Plant Parent"?

2021-04-13T13:35:00.001-04:00

You've most likely heard the term Plant Parent. It just means that you take care of a plant and that you love it! Since Covid has locked many in their homes and kept them away from the office and other "indoor" space, folks have been loving becoming plant parents. Aside from the fact that living with plants in the home is healthy for you (they help to clean the air), taking care of a plant gives you something to look forward to. You watch your plant grown and thrive and you can take great pride by saying - "I did that"!

You might be surprised to find out that many men love picking out and receiving as plants as gifts. Our designer Alicia, who is an avid plant collector and since moving in with her boyfriend Erik, he's become a plant lover too. If Erik says it's ok to bring home another plant - she doesn't wait to be told twice. Our design Alanna loves decorating the patio of her apartment with beautiful green plants and her boyfriend Kevin has become a "big believer" in the power of living with plants, especially being he can view them from his home office while he works! We've been creating and selling lots of terrariums and the best part of those is that they require very little maintenance. These make really great gifts for those who travel often or don't want to have to water plants often (or at all). Looking to add a little color into your environment? We have the perfect plant called a Kalanchoe, which is actually a blooming succulent plant. These are easy to care for, don't require too much water and will bloom over and over if you "dead head" them. This just means remove the spent blooms.

Why not stop into the shop or visit the Plant section of our website to see our current offerings!! Happy planting everyone!

Who Else is Looking Forward to a New Beginning in 2021?

2021-01-15T16:36:00.002-05:00

Looking Forward to a New Beginning in 2021

Georgianne Vinicombe
2 minute read

We made it and so did you. We sincerely hope you are well as is your family. If you had told me back in March that we would still be living and working in the middle of a pandemic I would have told you that you were nuts. But here we are and although we are hoping for better (and safer) days ahead we have been so grateful to be here to help our customers express their love and fondness for friends, family and coworkers. Birthdays and Anniversaries are still happening and we have been helping to send well wishes for those milestones, which is more important than ever being folks are not able to get together. Of course, get wells and sympathy deliveries are being made and gifts of flowers, plants and food baskets are always appreciated during those times.

Believe it or not we actually provided flowers for a wedding on New Years Eve! In case you are not aware, here in New Jersey we have been capped at only 10 people with no dancing for receptions. Our bride Sara and her new hubby Bob didn't mind because they still wanted to create a bit of a wedding winter wonderland at The Inn at Glencairn located here in Princeton. Our team set up the most amazing flowers and winter garlands on bridal arch, staircase and along the aisle not to mention some pretty floating candle centerpieces. Love prevails even during Covid-19!

I can't help but mention that Valentine's Day is less than one month away! Our designers have been hard at work creating new arrangements and they are already on our website, ready for you to place your order. Although red roses are traditional, we will also be featuring roses in all shades such as white, yellow, pink, and even purple.

Many other designs will be featured using mixed assortments of flowers not to mention some adorable and festive balloon bouquets, spa sets, plants and even gift baskets.

Want to check out our new offerings? Be sure to visit our Valentine's day offerings by linking here.

6 Reasons to Shop Small This Holiday Season

2020-11-10T12:20:00.001-05:00

Are you Shopping Small this Holiday Season?

Georgianne Vinicombe
3 minute read

Are you Shopping Small this holiday season? With so many more small business having great websites and offering both curbside pick up and delivery, your options for holiday shopping have exploded in 2020. Here at our shop we've always offered delivery ~ we are a florist, of course and that's what florists have been doing for over 100 years! As soon at the car was invented flower shops started delivering. 😉

Bring on 2020 and the pandemic and more businesses than ever are offering delivery. Are you shopping small this holiday season? If you haven't thought about it I'd love to give you some reasons why you should support your small independent retailers this holiday season.

Small Businesses give back more to your local community. We you buy from a local business, you are supporting your town. Business pay sales tax and when you shop big box business elsewhere that money doesn't benefit your community at all. The tax money is used to support schools, parks, roads, sidewalks as well as funding local public service workers such as police and fire. According to the Civic Economics - "on average, 48% of each purchase at a local shop is recirculated locally compared to less than 14% if you purchase at a chain store. Wow, that's pretty powerful stuff!!
Small Business make a more major economic impact ~ more than half of the U.S. Jobs since 1995 were created by a small business. And according to the SBA, since 1990, big business have eliminated 4 million jobs, while small businesses have added 8 million jobs. Wow!! The more you shop at a local store, the more potential job opportunities you could help them to provide. See, you did not know you held that much power, did you?
Small businesses provide better customer service. As a small business owner I believe this to be true. I could give examples of walking through a large chain store looking for help and finding none but I believe that you should never down another business in order to make your appear better. When you walk in to my store or call us on the phone, you are greeting by an employee who gives you their undivided attention. Enough said on that front.
Small businesses provide greater access to product diversity. As a small business owner myself, I know this is true. I can buy from large manufacturers or tiny small makers. I have one source that I can buy from that has over 50,000 manufacturers. How's that for diversity?
Small businesses create a sense of community. The younger generations coming up are looking to feel connected. Although many love their favorite chains, many want to buy in places where they can feel like they are a part of something special. You can only get this type of connection in a small business that has a steady work force. You don't get that feel from a larger business who is always changing staff, changing staff hours and moving employees around.
You'll fee good about shopping independent. Don't you want to do something, even when shopping, that makes a difference? Shopping small makes a difference. You've probably seen Facebook posts that say "when you shop small you are supporting an American dream" but it's true. You really are.

We invite you shop with us either in store or online. We have 2 easy to use website to help serve your better www.sendingsmiles.com and www.princetongifts.com - Can't decide on a gift or something for yourself? Our staff are here to help you - 609-520-2005.

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Elopement Flowers, Every Bride Needs a Bouquet

2020-09-24T14:02:00.003-04:00

Elopement Flowers, Every Bride Needs a Bouquet ~

One of the most gratifying things to come out of the pandemic is all the elopement flowers we have been creating. With many couples deciding to get married right away and not wait, it's been our pleasure to create some gorgeous last minute wedding flowers. Some couples are getting married at their own homes while others are going to the court house. Isn't that romantic? We love it!! This bouquet was created this pasts weekend and the bride asked for mostly white and green to be accented with touches of blush/pastels. We used a combination of tea and spray roses, mini calla lilies, locally grown gomphrena, cut succulent plants, eucalytpus and touches of sweet baby's breath. So soft and romantic.

One of our favorites was from a couple of weeks ago. We created a hand tied bouquet of all pink and peach flowers and pops of blue with no added greenery added. Tea and Spray roses, gerbera daisy, berries, carnations (yes, carnations) and pale blue hydrangea. Such a romantic combination and the bride loved it!

Here's another fresh flower bouquet that made for a special day. White garden roses with very pale pink hydrangea and accents of baby's breath - so sweet and simple.

It wouldn't be a wedding with out flowers ~ elopement flowers, every bride needs a bouquet. Wouldn't you agree? This flower and cloth draped tree set became a romantic backdrop for a back yard wedding earlier in the summer. Imagine the pretty photos taken beneath this decorated tree.

Do you need helping planning a small wedding? We're here to help. Be sure to check out our website to see our Intimate Wedding Bouquet options. For only $165 you can get both a bridal bouquet and a matching boutonniere. Would you agree that every bride needs flowers? We'd be happy to customize something for you so stop in or give us a call at 609-520-2005.

Our retail shop is back open for in store shopping!! Yay!

2020-09-04T13:28:00.002-04:00

Our Retail Shop is Back Open for In Store Shopping

Our retail shop is back open for in store shopping!! Yay!

We have finally re-opened our retail store to in-store shopping after more than 5 months of doing Curbside Pick and Delivery Only. It's felt good to welcome folks back into our pretty little store. During the Pandemic, we brought in tons of new items which we highlighted mostly on our website but now you can see them in person. We have majorly expanded our line of food items to include things such as spice rubs and hot sauces, along with healthy snacks such as veggie chips and Super Food cookies. During the pandemic folks have been wanting to send gifts that pamper and support and so we have brought in more items such as spa sets, soaps and lotions, more healing crystals and even items such as sanitizing sprays and face masks. Many of these items have been added as either their own product on our website available for delivery or as "add on" items that can make your floral gift even more special. Our biggest seller during this time has been balloon bouquets and almost every order we take has included a hand written greeting card. Folks are looking to bring festivity into the lives of their friends, co-workers and family and so these products fit the bill perfectly.

Along with new gift items we have been busy creating new designs for fall. At the shop we notice that once September 1st rolls around, folks start asking for autumn themed designs and after a long hot summer, that's fine by us! Be sure to check out our Autumn Collection in the seasonal tab on our website. We've also added quite a few new balloon bouquets over the summer including quite a few licensed designs such as Dora the Explora, Hello Kitty and a new Super Hero's balloon bouquet.

As you might know, we are open 7 days a week and we sincerely hope that if you are in the Princeton area that will pop in and say hi. Why not do some early holiday shopping while shopping small - it's a win/win! Safe shopping early where you can touch and feel what you are buying. Although many folks use our website to buy and send gift, we know there is nothing like the one on one feeling of shopping in person and we are doing everything we can to not only keep you safe but to give you a fantastic shopping experience. We are located in the Princeton Forrestal Village at 111 Main Street, just down the street from the water fountain that is in front of the Westin Hotel. We

Late August Wedding Bouquet During a Pandemic

2020-08-22T11:33:00.001-04:00

Today's bridal bouquet ~ I love all the bouquets we do but this one is the closest to what I would have for myself, if I was getting married for the first time (again). After my own wedding almost 35 years ago and a vow renewal 25 years ago - sadly, I can't justify another wedding for myself and Kevin but it's always a wonderful part of my job to road test the bridal bouquets.

This bouquet is created with white and pale pink roses, stephanotis (jasmine), gold tinted seeded eucalyptus, silver dollar eucalyptus and pops of purple limonium.

Planning Your Intimate Wedding During Covid-19

2020-07-24T13:46:00.002-04:00

Intimate Weddings During Covid-19 ~ What a mess this year has been for couples trying to have a beautiful wedding here in New Jersey. Even my own cousin was affected, changing their date twice and moving locations to accommodate an outdoor setting. Most, if not all our weddings for 2020 have been either postponed to 2021 or are being downsized. A few are holding smaller intimate weddings for family and friends in their back yards and next year will hold the larger receptions with a vow renewal for family and friends. Here in NJ, we are allowed outdoor events with up to 250 guests but most of our weddings are seem to be less than 100 people. Social distancing and masks will be the norm with couples providing both sanitizer and mask. A few of our brides have even asked for a for floral arrangement for the Mask Table. Who thought that we would need that? Yikes!!

If you are having to have your wedding during this time, we do have a few suggestions for you.

Don't skimp on your bridal bouquet. We know you might want to save money, even if you are having to do this twice but remember, your bridal bouquet will be in all your pictures for years to come. If you are doing a ceremony now, this is your formal ceremony so don't short change yourself. Your bridal bouquet is the most important floral arrangement in your wedding.
Dress up the ceremony area. You probably already feel bad about not having the wedding of your dreams. Whether you are taking your vows in a park, your back yard or your church, treat yourself to something pretty to dress up the ceremony area. Giant balloons, altar flowers, flowing fabric or rose petals are not that expensive and will make you feel like a bride when you walk down the aisle.
If you are hosting a luncheon or dinner don't short change your guests by not decorating the tables. Spending a few flowers on a table centerpiece shows your guests that you appreciate them showing up on your special day. Some folks are scared to go out, so if they are they, they truly love you. We know you might be needing to do this again next year but the people you have asked to be with you this year are probably the most important people in your life. Show them how much you appreciate their support.
Lastly, intimate weddings during covid 19 don't have to match your larger decor that you will have next year. We all need a smile during these difficult times, so be a bit more playful. You can still be formal but have fun with it.

Remember that we truly are all in this together. Not only is your life being affected but also are the lives of all your vendors. Saying that everyone is living a stressful life right now is truly an understatement. Remember to be open minded and let your vendors help you in the best possible way. There have been some shortages of labor, supplies and in our case - flowers. Some items are costing us more right now, while others are costing less. You choose your vendors before Covid so now is your time to trust that they have your best interests at heart. To help you decide on pretty flower options, we have added a category called Intimate Weddings on our main website www.sendingsmiles.com

Intimate Weddings During Covid-19 don't have to be a sad affair. Let us help you make this one of your happiest memories. 609-520-2005

Updating for Summer!

2020-06-25T11:13:00.001-04:00

Updating for Summer! Check out our new designs for the season.

Updating for Summer!! Check out our new designs for the season.

Can you believe that summer has finally arrived and with that comes a time for our designer to create new floral arrangements for the season! Be sure to check out our current selection in the Summer Flowers and Gifts Category. First up is a redesign of 3 of our most popular designs. These designs are what we call mono-floral being the focal flower is all the same time, with the only variation being in color or accents. First is our Spray Rose Bouquet ~ for the season we have added tiny fever few daises among soft colored spray roses. A clear glass vase is accented with colorful nuggets for a bit of whimsy.

Another design that received an update is our Amazing Alstroemeria arrangement. This design also include fever few and is created in a fun cinched vase that is over 9" tall. A bright mixture of colors such as yellow, pink, red, white and lavender would be a wonderful addition to any space. These flowers are extremely long lasting even though they look rather delicate. Don't you love the soft yet colorful view of this design? It's always a favorite and fun to update each season by using different accents, fillers and vases.

The next design that had an overhaul for the season is our Seasonal Daisy Bouquet. A mixture of soft pom pon daises are mixed in a design also created in our 9" tall cinched glass vase. This time white fever few daises are combined with yellow solidago for a pop of summer to compliment the daisies. Anyone that loves mums or daisies would be happy to see this arrive.

Out of all our updated designs, which one is your favorite? We'd love to know! Happy Summer, stay well and we hope to service you soon.

Flowers and Funerals During Covid-19

2020-05-29T18:19:00.002-04:00

Funerals During Covid-19

You may be wondering what is appropriate to send to funerals during Covid-19 and we believe that anything you would have sent to the viewing/memorial/service is still appropriate. Just because the number of attendees is limited, it does not mean that your show of support through sending a floral tribute is not appreciated. As a matter of fact, we think it's more important than ever! Take for example this funeral heart wreath that we recently created for the tribute to a beloved mother and wife. Imagine how serene and soothing this design would be in an almost empty funeral home.

A vibrantly colored spray or wreath is just the thing to bring a soft smile and a little kindness during a very difficult time. Not exactly sure what to send? Our talented and thoughtful designers are here to help you decide what is appropriate.

Family funerals are not the same. Limited attendees, barren viewing rooms - just so sad. Floral tributes are appreciated more than ever. There are many options of styles that can be sent from something small that the family can take home to something large and showy that is displayed on an easel. Casket sprays (the floral pieces that are placed on top of the casket that is either completely closed or half open) are a must for a viewing service or perhaps a beautiful wreath of flowers to be placed around a cremation urn. These pieces usually cost more than small designs and are provided by the immediate family. Not sure what type of floral design to send? Blooming and green plants are another wonderful option.

Funerals during Covid-19 don't have to be bleak and colorless. Flowers and plants can do so much to add to the warmth of the space, even if attendance is limited. If you'd like to see more of our funeral and sympathy designs be sure to visit our website sympathy section or follow us on Instagram or Facebook where we share daily pictures of what we are creating at the shop.

What's next at the shop ~ a Covid19 upate

2020-04-24T17:28:00.001-04:00

Mother's Day and Covid19 Update

Mother's Day and Covid19 Update ~ Can you believe how long we've all been locked down with this horrible pandemic? We've been blessed to be able to continue to spread cheer through daily delivery of flowers, plants, balloons, food baskets and other gift items. Our customers have been so grateful and the recipients have been over joyed when they open their door to find a special gift left just for them. At first it was hard securing fresh product but each week it gets a bit easier.

It's been amazing how many birthday celebrations we've been a part of. We've always created lots of balloon bouquets but never so many for children as the last 3 weeks. It's been so rewarding to be able to create these sweet bouquets for little boys and girls.

This week was Administrative Professionals week and were kept very busy on Wednesday with over 50 deliveries going to hard working staff that have been doing their jobs from home. Next up is Mother's Day. Alanna, Alicia and I have been hard at work coming up with new gift ideas for the upcoming holiday. Floral arrangements, plant gardens, gift baskets and even food items... something for everyone!

Take this Bath Bomb set for Mom. What a sweet gift for their special day and who wouldn't want to be pampered with some fizzy bath bombs for the tub. To see this and all our offerings for Mother Day feel free to click here.

Food Baskets on the Way!

2020-04-03T17:37:00.000-04:00

With many folks working from home during this epidemic (go away bad virus) it's been so nice to see companies thanking their staff. We always love making gift baskets and we really had fun making these for one of our corporate accounts.

These snack baskets were delivered all over our local area and included fun and healthy snack food like nuts, chips, cookies and chocolate. We event tucked in an inspiration stone, chapstick and a candle. We especially loved the card message that read "And you don't even need to share with your co-workers".

Is there someone out there working hard at home for your company? Why not show your appreciation with a delivery of fresh flowers, food or even a plant? We're here to help with No Contact Delivery 7 days a week!!

Fresh flowers have arrived to our Princeton Flower Shop!

2020-04-02T12:02:00.002-04:00

Fresh Flowers Have Arrived!

The world has gone a bit crazy but flowers spreading good cheer still remains the same. The Governor has said that we are allowed to continue doing No-Contact flower deliveries and that's what we intend to do. Our customers have been so grateful that we are able to send their loved ones a pretty bouquet on their birthday or let them know that someone is thinking of them while they are sick or grieving.

Look at all these gorgeous flowers that just arrived. Here's a list of what just came in!!

Rainbow Spray Roses
Purple Statice
Cremone and Spider Mums in all colors
Gorgeous Full Size Carnations
Rainbow Alstroemeria
Pom Pon Daisies
Hypericum Berries
Blue Thistle
Dianthus Flowers
Solidago Asters
Full Size Roses
Tulips

Just name a few! Isn't that amazing? We are also grateful to all our wholesalers and suppliers for all their help getting this product to our shop during this difficult time. Do you know someone who could use a lift? Flowers are a great way to send your love! Place your order today!

What do color and flowers have in common? Quite a bit!!

2020-03-28T14:46:00.000-04:00

The health benefits of living with flowers are many and the colors can mean so much. According to a 10-month behavioral study at Rutgers University, flowers have an immediate impact on happiness and a long-term positive effect on moods. Study participants reported feeling less depressed, anxious, and agitated when presented with flowers. Color plays a strong role in this reaction:

• Red has a positive effect on the immune system and an energizing influence on fatigue and exhaustion.

• When you see pink, you often feel joy. Bright hues of this color increase blood pressure, heartbeat and respiration, as well, which leads to energy.

• Violet calms the body and mind and nourishes creativity.

• Yellow, the happy color, encourages communication while it stimulates memory and the nervous system.

• Orange’s psychological profile includes promoting optimism, determination, and success. On the other hand, it also urges viewers to socialization, so be sparing with this color.

• Blue, as you could no doubt guess, promotes a calm, cool, and sedate aura. No wonder it’s America’s favorite color even in normal times.

• Green brings about tranquility.

Which color is your favorite?

Rutger's University: Emotional Health Study

2020-03-23T10:34:00.000-04:00

Rutger's University: Emotional Health

With today's high-tech and fast-paced lifestyle taking its daily toll on our lives, experts advise exercise and other personal lifestyle changes to relieve stress. According to recent behavioral research conducted at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, nature provides us with a simple way to improve emotional health - flowers. The presence of flowers triggers happy emotions, heightens feelings of life satisfaction and affects social behavior in a positive manner far beyond what is normally believed.

"What's most exciting about this study is that it challenges established scientific beliefs about how people can manage their day-to-day moods in a healthy and natural way," said Jeannette Haviland-Jones, Ph.D., Professor of Psychology at Rutgers and lead researcher on the study.

Research Findings

A team of researchers explored the link between flowers and life satisfaction in a 10-month study of participants' behavioral and emotional responses to receiving flowers. The results show that flowers are a natural and healthful moderator of moods.

Flowers have an immediate impact on happiness. All study participants expressed "true" or "excited" smiles upon receiving flowers, demonstrating extraordinary delight and gratitude. This reaction was universal, occurring in all age groups.

Flowers have a long-term positive effect on moods. Specifically, study participants reported feeling less depressed, anxious and agitated after receiving flowers, and demonstrated a higher sense of enjoyment and life satisfaction.

Flowers make intimate connections. The presence of flowers led to increased contact with family and friends.
"Common sense tells us that flowers make us happy," said Dr. Haviland-Jones. "Now, science shows that not only do flowers make us happier than we know, they have strong positive effects on our emotional well being."

Forget the fountain of youth, new scientific research proves flowers help senior citizens cope with the challenges of aging.

Sharing Space

The study also explored where in their homes people display flowers. The arrangements were placed in areas of the home that are open to visitors - such as foyers, living rooms and dining rooms - suggesting that flowers are a symbol for sharing.

"Flowers bring about positive emotional feelings in those who enter a room," said Dr. Haviland-Jones. "They make the space more welcoming and create a sharing atmosphere."

Background

The Emotional Impact of Flowers Study was conducted by Jeannette M. Haviland-Jones, Ph.D., Professor of Psychology, Project Director, Human Development Lab at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. Dr. Haviland-Jones is a psychologist and internationally recognized authority in the role of emotional development in human behavior and nonverbal emotional signals and response.

The research adds a scientific foundation to what many consider to be common knowledge - that flowers have a strong, beneficial impact on those who receive them. The Society of American Florists worked in cooperation with the Rutgers research team, bringing an expertise of flowers to the project.

Flower Therapy

The researchers from Rutgers determined that the flower recipients in the study experienced an elevation in mood that lasted for days. And Chinese healers - who've long believed in "flower power" - say that it doesn't stop there. They say you can utilitze flowers to summon whatever power or emotion you'd like - and that the secret is in the flower's color. Each color creates a different frequency of lightwaves, they believe, which travel through the retina and down the optic nerve, setting off a chain reaction of responses in the body. Neurotransmitters are then released, inducing the production of calming hormones like melotonin, stimulating hormones like adrenaline, and mood-boosting hormones like serotonin.

Here, how you can enjoy the physical and emotional benefits of flowers:

• Increase energy with red roses

Since red has the slowest vibratory rate and and longest wavelength, it stimulates adrenal glands, boosting energy.

• Boost confidence with irises

The color indigo stimulates the brain's pineal gland, which is the regulator of sleep patterns. Indigo also helps to free the mind of worries, fear and inhibition.

• Enhance alertness with sunflowers

Yellow lightwaves stimulate the brain, making you alert, clearheaded and decisive. And since we associate yellow with the sun's rays and daylight, it's said to help us feel more optimistic.

• Get a good night's sleep with bluebells

Blue triggers the production of melotonin, a brain chemical that helps us relax and sleep soundly. Blue also stimulates the thyroid gland to release thyroxin, a hormone that regulates metabolic rate.

• Relax with green zinnias

Green affects the nervous system, making us breathe slowly and deeply, slowing the production of stress hormones and helping the heart relax.

• Prevent allergies with orange daisies

Orange strengthens the immune system and the lungs, which can ward off spring allergies. Orange also has a strong beneficial effect on the digestive system and can stimulate the sexual organs.

• Relieve stress with lilacs

Violet cools us, alleviating "hot" conditions like heat rash and sunburn, and suppressing hunger and balancing metabolism. It also stimulates the pituitary gland, the part of the brain that releases tension-fighting beta-endorphins.

Want To Get Him To Open Up? Send Flowers.

A recent behavioral study conducted at Rutgers University shows that men who receive flowers demonstrate increased social interaction and happiness. This research expands on previous data collected, which showed that flowers enhance happiness and social connections among women.

Conducted by Rutgers University student researcher Holly Hale and psychology professor Jeannette Haviland-Jones, Ph.D., the study involved two groups of men who varied in age and ethnicity, one group who received a surprise gift of flowers and a control group who did not. The subjects' verbal cues and body language (measures of social interaction) were studied.

The men who received flowers demonstrated increased eye contact in conversation, stood in closer proximity to the researchers, and produced more and truer smiles than those men who did not receive flowers.

While in general, women displayed a greater level of emotion in their study, the effects are equal. "When it comes to receiving flowers, men and women are on the same playing field," said Haviland-Jones. "It seems that we all express extraordinary delight and increase our social behavior."

Why are flowers more expensive on Valentine's Day?

2020-02-10T14:21:00.000-05:00

Why are flowers more expensive on Valentine’s Day?

Many people are getting flowers for their loved ones for Valentine's Day, but they may wonder why the price tag on them is suddenly increased. Here are 4 reasons to help explain the reason!

1. Roses need to grow quicker
It takes 14 weeks to grow a rose. If you do the math you will soon realize that there aren’t 14 weeks between Christmas and Valentine’s Day. The timescale between those two peaks isn’t big enough for the roses to grow at their natural pace. To encourage the flowers to grow, the flowers need extra heat and light which costs more money!

2 The Roses have to be cut quicker
More demand for red roses equals less time to cut all the roses. This means that the flowers have to be cut in a very small window of time. To keep up with the demand growers need to invest in extra labor and overtime, which of course costs money!

3 More Roses have to be transported
Because everyone wants their roses at the same time, logistics are an issue as well. Logistic-wise the flowers have to be moved in a very short period of time. Meaning that vehicles that would normally wait for a back load need to come back empty because of time restrictions. This costs money!

4 More work for florists in less time
As mentioned in #3, everyone wants their Valentine’s bouquets at the same time. This puts extra pressure on the florists to deliver. In order to do this, florists need to employ extra staff to condition, create and to deliver the flowers. Extra staff and overtime, means more costs.

Just a few Valentine's Day suggestions!

2020-02-04T10:50:00.000-05:00

Valentine's Day is February 14th - See what we have to offer this year

Choosing a Valentine's Day gift can be a bit confusing because there are so many options. Our specialty is being able to deliver the gift for you. Imagine their face when a gift is delivered right to the job!! Although Red Roses is the traditional gift of love during the Valentine's Day holiday, we offer so many other options for you. Although red roses can get pretty pricey during the month of February, you are in luck because we have many options to choose from that won't break the bank. Here's just a few to help you decide!!

We have to start off with a dozen (12) long stem red roses because it is tradition. These gorgeous blooms are going to be arranged in a 10" tall red glass keepsake vase this year. Although they are one of our highest priced items at $124.99, they are also one of the most dramatic designs we will be delivering. These are called our Valentine's Day Red Roses and can be found on our website Here.

Looking for a less expensive option? Here we present Heart Sounds for Valentine's Day. This design includes red roses, white and pink carnations, red alstroemeria and pretty greenery arranged in a keepsake mercury glass vase decorated with delicate red hearts. This design is more modestly priced and can be found on our website by linking HERE.

Looking for something a bit more "FESTIVE" then look no further than our 6 Happy Valentine's Day balloon bouquet. This is the perfect gift to give them a lift and comes with many options such as a teddy bear, chocolates and more to make this delivery extra special. This gift can be viewed on our website HERE.

Looking for a gift for Mom or your best friend? We have just the thing! Why not send our Bath Bomb Set? 6 yummy smelling Bath bombs are loaded with shea butter, almond oil and sea salt. This gift arrives in a lovely sheer organza bag with a pretty bow. To see this gift idea on our website just click HERE.

Still not sure what to send? Why not check out our whole offerings on our website at www.sendingsmiles.com and be sure to go to our Valentine's Day category. You can order online 24/7 or call us during our normal business hours. We are are here to assist you!!

January ~ a time for events

2020-01-29T14:03:00.000-05:00

January ~ a time for social and corporate events? You bet!

You would think that during the month of January, there would not be too many corporate or social events happening but it is the furthest from the truth. We have been hard at work creating flower centerpiece after flower centerpiece. This week has had us creating floral centerpieces for Executive Board Meetings (like the photo below) and other corporate events. Believe it or not we even have an order for Holiday themed centerpieces. Why, you might ask? Because if you are in the restaurant business and you want to throw a holiday party for your staff, you certainly can't do it in December, so January is the perfect time!

Add a non-profit installation dinner, a 100th birthday party and a few other events and you have a very busy schedule of parties. Our flower designing staff have been hard at working making flower centerpieces of all sizes, shapes and colors. With the centerpiece designs below, the client request a Christmas Holiday look. I think we did a great job, don't you?

January is the perfect time for winter centerpieces like these designs being created for a party tomorrow. The blue and white theme is perfect for a winter event along with being peaceful and soothing. Want to see more of our event designs? Our Instagram account is a great way to keep up with our latest designs! These designs below have a Winter vibe plus a slight midnight feel with the use of the blue glass balls. White winter mums, accents of baby's breath and we've also added frosted pine cones and assorted winter foliage to complete the look.

What are you celebrating this winter. Would you like us to create pretty floral centerpieces to brighten up your winter party! Want to learn more about setting up a corporate account? Link Here to learn more or just give us a call at 609-520-2005.

January Birth Flower ~ the carnation

2020-01-01T12:37:00.000-05:00

The carnation is the January birth flower. The carnation is one of the most charming flowers known for its ruffled petals and wide array of colors. They have a delicate clove-like scent and are known for being very long lasting.

We often include these pretty flowers in some of our floral designs and especially love the more unique colors! These pretty centerpieces below are made more romantic with the use of the soft pink carnations.

Even our new Sapphire floral arrangement includes simple white carnations. Don't you love the contract with the blue vase? The next time you think to say no carnations, we hope you'll reconsider.

Do you know someone who was born in January? Perhaps they would love a floral arrangement made with pretty carnations!!

Christmas Wedding Flowers ~ looking back to last year

2019-12-06T14:44:00.001-05:00

Christmas Wedding Flowers by Monday Morning Flowers

Christmas Wedding Flowers by Monday Morning Flowers ~ What a wonderful time of year to celebrate with family and friends and get married. It's hard to believe that we created these pretty floral designs for a wedding almost a year ago. St. Paul's church in downtown Princeton was the site for the ceremony and as you can see, what fully decorated for Christmas with lit trees and huge red poinsettia plants. Our bride Alisandra wore an elegant ballgown while her sister was dressed in a red dress with crystal sleeves. The ends of the pews had accents of fresh holly cut from the Farm the bride grew up on.

Once the guests arrived to the Nassau Inn, they were greeted with elegant wreaths and a large boxwood tree decorated in red roses, berries and white doves.

As the guests took their seats they were treated to a dance by the bride and her father. So sweet!! The bride was radiant the her Father looked so handsome in his tuxedo and red rose boutonniere.

Each table was decorated with a candelabra adorned with tall tapered candles and cascading red and burgundy roses, berries and winter greenery. The head table was also draped in fresh flowers and foliage. So elegant!

Although December is not a popular wedding month, we really love creating winter wedding flowers. It's hard to believe that this gorgeous wedding that took so many months to plan was done over a year ago. As a matter of fact, this lovely couple is already expecting their first child. Would you consider having a wedding during Christmas? We'd love to know! To see this and more of our wedding and event designs be sure to check out our website at www.perfectweddingflowers.com

New Addition to Our Princeton Collection

2019-11-08T13:29:00.000-05:00

THE NEWEST ADDITION TO OUR PRINCETON COLLECTION ALEXANDER

The newest Addition to Our Princeton Collection Alexander ~ we always love creating new flower arrangement designs but sometimes it can be hard to come up with a name. Not when we created this new design being added to our Selection called the Princeton Collection. Most of the designs in this collection have somewhat of an Orange and Black Theme because they are inspired by Princeton University. You may not be aware that we not only deliver to the University for the students, faculty and employees but the University is a wonderful client for us as well. We have provided many, many floral and balloon decor events for them over the last 30 years. It's always black and orange season when Princeton University is in session! This new design was inspired by and named after one of the most gorgeous buildings on the Campus Called Alexander Hall. We love this photo we found online because it truly shows how gorgeous this building is. This building was completed in 1894 and was designed by William Appleton Potter. If you are ever on campus you must go walk around this iconic building!

So when deciding what to name our new designs, we often look to local towns, streets and landmarks for inspiration ~ hence our East Windsor Fun Flowers and our new Cranbury Brandy. When adding designs to be featured in our Princeton Collection, which usually have an Orange and Black color theme, we often look to famous buildings on campus and so this new design was named after this gorgeous building!

We love the architectural feel of this of cube design lushly filled with a combination of orange flowers in different shapes and sizes. The loops of lily grass add to it's visual appeal, don't you think? These would also work very well as a table centerpiece for a Princeton University themed event. Why not call us today or shop our website to One today!

A Stressful Couple of Weeks Inspired This Post ~ we hope you find it helpful!

2019-10-11T11:03:00.000-04:00

Today is Going to Be a Good Day ~ by Monday Morning Flowers.

In today's Monday Morning Flower blog post I'm not doing the usual floral post. Flowers and Positivity - they really do go hand in hand, so todays post is going to have a little spin.

Have you ever noticed that when you drive by a field of flowers that you can't help but look and smile? That's why at this time of the year we flock to farms to pick apples, pumpkins and walk through fields of Sunflowers. The photo below was taken on a trip that the hubby and I took to California. These flowers are called Stock and I tell you they smell like heaven on Earth.

Have you noticed that many health facilities have live plants in their lobbies and floral related paintings on the walls? That's because studies show that looking at nature, including plants and flowers, uplift the spirits and aid in healing. Well, that's not really the reason for my post today, it is just a jumping point from which to talk about positive thinking. Most people think that working in a flower shop is very relaxing and stress free and although it can be an amazing work environment, we often are dealing with customers who are under an incredible amount of stress. Sometimes they are dealing with the loss of a loved one, planning a large event or trying to squeeze in personal tasks during their busy work day... No matter who we deal with, very few are in a totally relaxed state when we are helping them with their gift giving or event planning needs.

This brings me to the picture below - Today is Going to Be a Good day. How often do we start out our day thinking that today will be better, that it's all rainbows and sunshine, only to get into the car and hit traffic, get to work and have an angry boss or customer, or just something goes wrong before we even leave the house. Let's face it, today's world, with all it's wonders and advantages, is a stressful place to be.

Have you found a good way to deal with stress that really works? I've tried many methods including meditation, setting daily intentions and jotting down some notes in a gratitude journal but I have found deep breath to be a miracle worker on me. You might laugh because everyone has heard "calm down and take a few deep breaths" but as with many old remedy's, this really works. Did you know that when you become stressed your breaths become more shallow. It's as if your mind is telling your body that you are going to have to run for your life. You'll notice that athletes take several shallow breaths before they need to fun fast. It's just how our bodies are designed. By slowing down your breathing and making your breaths very deep and fully exhaling, you are sending a signal to your brain that everything is good, that nothing stressful happening. After a few very good breaths, your brain says "It's all good" and then your anxiety level goes down.

In closing, I can't help but bring flowers back into the conversation. Living with flowers in your work and home environment is truly a stress reliever. Picking some up at your local farmers market or florist is a small price to pay for a little beauty in your life. I sincerely hope you see the value and by doing so you support both farms and small businesses. I hope you found this blog helpful!! Make is a Good Day Everyone!!

Funeral Flowers Trend Continues This Week

2019-08-30T17:43:00.000-04:00

FUNERAL FLOWERS TREND CONTINUES AT OUR SHOP IN NJ

Funeral Flowers Trend Continues with many family funeral flowers being created and delivered by our shop in Princeton NJ this week ~ well, it's been a super busy week in the shop and it's not over. With 2 bridal meetings tomorrow, 2 large school functions needing flowers and balloons, a small wedding and another wedding on Sunday, we will be happy to be closed on Monday for Memorial Day. In addition to all that, we had 3 rather large family funeral orders come in. We consider them "Family Funerals" when the immediate family of the person who has passed orders the larger floral displays from us. These include the casket displays and larger designs such as wreath, sprays and hearts.

This design above was created to stand on a wooden easel in the shape of a heart constructed out of over 60 white Playa Blanca Roses. Aren't the gorgeous? This design below was created for a young man who passed that was very, very Irish! Many of his displays were either green and white or green, white and orange. I think our designer Alicia did a beautiful job on this design. We also created a few custom pieces such as this doggy bone below which was a gift from the family dog. Isn't that so sweet?

Another piece that we thoughts was particularly sweet was this Teddy Bear created 100% from white mums. Isn't he adorable? Everyone who saw this little guy in person fell in love with it. We are thinking it might be worth adding this design to our website for future occasions such as baby showers and even birthdays.

Well, there you have it! A sneak peak into the shop this week as the funeral flowers trend continues. What sympathy flowers have you seen? Which type of design is your favorite? We would love to know! In the meantime, be sure to check out all our new designs in our "new" category and our sympathy work here!

Memorial Flowers ~ a trend in funerals

2019-08-24T09:50:00.001-04:00

MEMORIAL LUNCHEON AND DINNER FLOWERS ~ A TREND IN FUNERALS

Memorial luncheon and dinner flowers are the latest trend in funerals allowing people a chance to grieve and celebrate a life well lived.

How like the flower business to go from one blog post that talks about wedding trends to sympathy trends. Although honoring the life of a loved one during wakes and viewings is important, many families are opting to host larger events such as luncheons and dinners.

For example, the pieces below are for a luncheon being held in honor or a wonderful man who spent many years of his life as an artist. The family believes he really would have enjoyed both the vibrant tones and the unique blooms. 4 of these designs shown below will be for small cocktail tables and include exotic flowers such as bird of paradise, protea and orchids. The host venue is going to be Grounds for Sculpture out in Hamilton/Trenton. If you have never been there, it's an amazing setting and these flowers will really liven up the space.

The piece shown below will be placed onto the larger round tables where guests will be sitting. Don't you love the succulents and zen like leaves used in the design? After the event is over, the succulent plants can be taken out and re-rooted as a keepsake of the event. Lastly, during the speeches that will take place at the memorial this gorgeous standing spray will stand majestically next to the podium. Not pictured are a few tall buffet designs that will decorate the food tables.

Again, bird of paradise, ginger, orchids, green hydrangea, tropical leaves, smokebush and cut succulents fill out this gorgeous design. Whether you need table centerpieces or a wreath for around an urn, when choosing flowers for memorials our staff are here to help and advise you.

To read more about sending sympathy gifts read out blog on why you should send flowers to funerals.