Embrace Spring's Blooms: March's Seasonal Flowers

Spring is almost here, and with it comes an array of beautiful blooms to delight the senses. As a florist, I'm always excited to work with the fresh, vibrant flowers that come into season each month. March brings us a plethora of floral options to choose from, perfect for adding a touch of natural beauty to any event or arrangement.

One of the joys of working with seasonal flowers is the opportunity to support local growers and promote sustainability. By using locally grown, in-season flowers and foliage, we not only reduce our carbon footprint but also celebrate the beauty of our own region's flora. Plus, these blooms are often fresher and more vibrant, adding an extra layer of charm to any design.

So, what can we expect to see gracing our bouquets and arrangements this March? Let's take a look at some of the standout seasonal flowers:

1. Daffodils: As one of the quintessential symbols of spring, daffodils burst onto the scene in March with their sunny white to cream to yellow hues. These cheerful flowers are perfect for adding a pop of color to any arrangement and symbolize renewal and new beginnings.

2. Calla Lilies: Elegant and sophisticated, calla lilies make a stunning addition to any arrangement. With their graceful long stems and smooth, trumpet-shaped blooms, these stems add a touch of refinement and beauty to designs. In the northeast, calla lilies are typically greenhouse grown and are usually one of the first blooms of Spring that are available in our markets!

3. Muscari: Also known as grape hyacinths, muscari are small, bell-shaped flowers that come in shades of blue, purple and white. These delicate blooms are perfect for adding texture and a hint of whimsy to Spring arrangements.

4. Hellebore: With their elegant, nodding blooms and colors ranging from white and green to deep purple and pink, hellebores add a touch of understated beauty to any arrangement. These flowers symbolize hope and rebirth, making them perfect for any Spring celebration.

5. Forsythia: With its bright yellow flowers and delicate branches, forsythia adds a cheerful touch to any arrangement. These branches can be used to create stunning floral arches, centerpieces, or even standalone arrangements.

6. Ranunculus: Often referred to as the "rose of spring," ranunculus are beloved for their layers of delicate petals and vibrant colors. From soft pastels to bold oranges and reds, these blooms add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any design.

These are just a few of the many seasonal flowers available to work with in March. Whether you're planning a wedding, a corporate event, or simply want to brighten someone's day, incorporating locally grown, in-season flowers is a wonderful way to celebrate the beauty of nature while supporting sustainable practices.

As New Jersey wedding Florists, we're passionate about creating stunning floral arrangements using the freshest seasonal blooms available. Contact us today to discuss how we can bring the beauty of spring to your March wedding!

Hot Take - Don't buy flowers for Valentine's Day!

Hey there flower enthusiasts and romantics alike! Today, I want to dive into a somewhat controversial opinion that might make you rethink your Valentine's Day traditions. Brace yourselves – we're talking about the idea that maybe, just maybe, buying flowers on this love-filled day might not be the best move. Now, before you clutch your bouquet in disbelief, hear me out.

Let's start with the environmental elephant in the room – sustainability. Flowers are a fantastic way to express love, but the dark side is the toll it takes on our planet. The sheer volume of flowers grown and shipped for Valentine's Day is staggering, contributing to carbon footprints that are anything but romantic. Think about it – those beautiful blooms often travel thousands of miles, guzzling fuel and emitting greenhouse gases along the way.

Now, I'm not saying love shouldn't be celebrated with flowers, but what if we took a more eco-conscious route? Consider opting for locally sourced, seasonal blooms or even potted plants that can live on beyond the holiday. Your thoughtful gesture could have a positive impact on both your relationship and the environment.

Picture this – you walk into your favorite florist shop, and suddenly, you feel like you've stepped into a high-stakes poker game. The prices have skyrocketed, and you're left wondering if those roses are made of gold. Valentine's Day, as wonderful as it is, has unfortunately become a cash cow for the floral industry.

From the florist's perspective, it's not just about petals and stems; it's about navigating a wave of demand that hits only once a year. The increased cost of flowers during this season isn't just about greed – it's about compensating for the rest of the year when business might be slower. So, while you're paying a premium for those dazzling bouquets, spare a thought for your local florist trying to make ends meet.

Let's talk about the big one – the notion that giving flowers on Valentine's Day has lost its genuine meaning. In the rush to pick the most stunning bouquet or the rarest exotic flowers, the sentiment behind the gesture often gets drowned out by societal expectations.

Valentine's Day has turned into a floral frenzy, where everyone is rushing to express their love in the same way. The uniqueness and personal touch that flowers once carried are now somewhat diluted in a sea of red roses and heart-shaped arrangements. Maybe it's time to break away from the expected and find more meaningful ways to convey your love.

In conclusion, I'm not advocating for a flower-free Valentine's Day. Instead, I'm suggesting we take a moment to reconsider our approach. Perhaps it's time to explore sustainable options, like pressing flowers throughout the year and making a beautiful handmade card with them, planting a tree instead or gifting a living plant. Support local florists throughout the year and rediscover the joy of giving flowers on days that aren't dictated by a calendar. Let's make every day an opportunity to express love, and who knows, your gesture might just blossom into something truly special.

Pinterest Woas: Why your Wedding Floral Vision Is More Limiting Than Your Budget

Embarking on the journey of wedding planning often involves envisioning a celebration adorned with exquisite floral arrangements that both awe and inspire your guests. From enchanting bouquets to mesmerizing centerpieces, flowers play a pivotal role in shaping the ambiance of the day. However, it's crucial for couples to recognize that their floral vision may sometimes surpass budget constraints. In this blog post, we'll explore the reasons behind this phenomenon and provide insights into the delicate art of balancing blooming dreams with financial realities.

Photo by Off Beet Productions

In the age of social media, platforms like Pinterest inundate couples with images of over-the-top floral designs, setting lofty goals for wedding aesthetics. Photos feature large scale installations of flowers and greenery, stunning bouquets with exotic flowers, and luxe scenes from wedding across seasons as well as locations. While these visuals serve as inspiration, they can also create unrealistic ideals that may not align with a realistic wedding budget. And because these social media platforms do not offer any kind of price transparency, couples are left guessing as to the real cost of designs. Navigating this delicate balance of vision vs. budget requires a strategic and thoughtful approach to floral planning. So what should you do when planning your New Jersey wedding florals? Here are a few tips to helping you plan your perfect wedding decor.

Photo by Fox and Hare Photo

First, let’s consider cyclical availability. Botanical availability and pricing fluctuate with the seasons, and year-round access to specific blooms may come at a premium. Dreaming of flowers that are out of season can lead to inflated costs due to the limited number of theses stems that can be shipped internationally, transported across country or grown in greenhouses. Embracing the beauty of local, seasonal flowers not only aligns with budget considerations but also adds an authentic touch to your wedding, reflecting the time of year in your floral arrangements and the beauty of your local landscape. 

Photo by Dream Street Photography

Another consideration is the scale of your wedding decor. These pinned weddings you save online often showcase huge events with hundreds of thousands of flowers. They have it all, from the lush ceremony arch to the hanging flowers above the sweetheart table to the tall centerpieces and every design in between. And I know, it’s so hard to choose between them all! But if there are flowers everywhere, how will those special moments stand out? Rather than dispersing your floral budget across numerous elements, consider prioritizing key areas that hold the most significance for you. Whether it's an eye-catching entrance design or a show-stopping bridal bouquet, directing resources strategically ensures that your floral vision remains impactful without straining your budget. And how will you know which designs will make the most impact at your wedding? How will you know which flowers are seasonally available in your area? Who will guide you through the murky waters of Pinterest and help create the wedding of your dreams? You need a florist that knows their s#it!

Photo by Genevieve Huba

The florist you hire is the most important factor in how your wedding decor and design will turn out. They will know exactly how to bring inspirations to life within your preferred wedding budget. At A Petal To Peddle, we understand that your wedding day is a unique expression of your love story. Our dedicated team is not just a service provider; we are creative collaborators with the skills to bring your vision to life. Trusting in our expertise allows for a collaborative process where we can work together to design unique arrangements within your budget. Professional florists at A Petal To Peddle have the knowledge and access to a diverse array of flowers and can suggest locally grown, seasonal stems that achieve the desired effect without unnecessary costs. They may also have ideas that you haven’t thought of yet. After all, isn’t the goal of every couple for your wedding to be the one that’s pinned, posted and blogged about… 

Photo by We Are The Cashmans

As you navigate the delicate balance between blooming dreams and budget realities, it's essential to acknowledge why pinning the “perfect” wedding may be more limiting than your budget constraints. Relying on the expertise of A Petal To Peddle fosters a collaborative approach that results in actual one-of-a-kind arrangements, not copycats from social media, without compromising your financial boundaries. By unraveling the complexities of floral planning, couples can ensure that their wedding day, adorned with the beauty of thoughtfully curated blooms from A Petal To Peddle, leaves a lasting impression within a comfortable investment. Remember, creating a memorable floral experience doesn't necessarily require a large budget. Trusting in New Jersey Wedding Florist A Petal To Peddle can turn your floral vision into a beautiful reality.

Floral Masterpieces: Journey through our top 10 events of 2023

As we bid farewell to 2023, it's time to reflect on a year filled with love, joy, and unforgettable floral moments. From the bustling streets of New York City to the picturesque landscapes of the Hudson Valley, we, as wedding florists, had the honor of contributing to some of the most breathtaking celebrations of the year. Join us as we recount the top ten events that made 2023 a year to remember.

1. Katie and Kyle's Iconic NYC Wedding at the Harmonie Club: The words "timeless" and "elegant" perfectly describe the custom designs we created for this gorgeous couple on their special day. By creating maximalist floral designs using baby’s breath, roses, ranunculus, and other bloominous white stems, we were able to capture a timeless atmosphere within their historic venue.

2. Jen and KC's Garden Wonderland at Crabtree's Kittle House, Chappaqua, NY: Nature's elegance took center stage at Crabtree's Kittle House as Jen and KC celebrated their union amidst beautiful white and blue herbaceous designs. The result was a dreamlike atmosphere that perfectly complemented the venue's classic charm.

3. Alli and Brandon's Luxe Celebration at Hudson Valley City Winery: The Hudson Valley City Winery provided the backdrop for Alli and Brandon's opulent celebration. Our floral designs, featuring dramatic colors of deep red, mustard, peach, and cream with olive accents, added a touch of extravagance to this romantic vineyard setting.

4. Brooke and John's Dutch Still-Life Inspired Wedding at Battello, Jersey City, NJ: Battello in Jersey City transformed into a living masterpiece for Brooke and John's wedding, drawing inspiration from Dutch still-life paintings. The venue was adorned with rich, vibrant florals and styled fruit that captured the essence of timeless artistry.

5. Bianca and Matt's Blended Wedding The Arnold House in the Catskills: A two-day celebration unfolded at The Arnold House, blending Bianca's Hindu heritage with Matt's Italian background. Our floral creations mirrored the richness of their cultural fusion, creating a tapestry of colors and traditions that symbolized unity.

6. Rachel and Rex's Chic Coral and Blue Celebration at 501 Union in Brooklyn: Brooklyn's 501 Union set the stage for Rachel and Rex's chic coral and blue wedding. The venue was transformed into a vibrant haven with modern floral designs, creating an ambiance that perfectly reflected the couple's contemporary style.

7. Naomi's Love Shack Fancy Inspired Mitzvah at Antique Loft, Hoboken, NJ: The Antique Loft in Hoboken was drenched in hues of pink for Naomi's Mitzvah celebration. Our floral awe-inspiring pink designs added a touch of elegance to the lively event, creating an atmosphere of joy and sophistication.

8. Dana and Drew's Romantic Candlelight Affair: Romance was in the air at Dana and Drew's candlelit wedding, where floral designs in shades of white, cream, burgundy, and red added a touch of warmth and intimacy to their wedding day.

9. Hilary and Jamie's Modern White Wedding at The Foundry, Long Island City, Queens: The Foundry in Long Island City set the stage for Hilary and Jamie's modern white wedding. Minimalistic floral designs in shades of white and green created an atmosphere of modern sophistication against the urban backdrop of the metropolitan Foundry building, allowing the couple's love to shine brightly.

10. Ashley and Anthony's Blush and Emerald Elegance by the Hudson River: Against the backdrop of the Hudson River and the stunning NYC skyline, Ashley and Anthony's wedding unfolded in a palette of blush and emerald. Our floral arrangements and lush cascading greenery added a touch of timeless elegance to this breathtaking setting.

As we reflect on the top ten weddings of 2023, each event stands as a testament to the unique stories that unfolded throughout the year. From classic elegance to modern chic, these celebrations were a canvas for our floral artistry, contributing to the magical moments that will be cherished for a lifetime. As we step into the future, we look forward to continuing our journey with couples who entrust us to weave the beauty of nature into the tapestry of their love stories.

We’d love to create floral magic for you on your special day! Click here to learn more about our custom and sustainable floral design services. Happy Flowering Lovers!

Gratitude in Full Bloom: A Heartfelt Thank You from A Petal To Peddle

Dear Cherished Community,

It is with immense joy and gratitude that we extend our heartfelt thanks for the incredible honor bestowed upon us – A Petal To Peddle has been voted the Best Floral Design Studio in Jersey City, NJ by the discerning readers of Hoboken Girl! This recognition is a testament to the incredible support we've received from our community, and it fills our hearts with pride and appreciation.

Best Floral Design in Jersey City, NJ!

Based in Jersey City, NJ, top NJ wedding florists at A Petal To Peddle create stunning custom designs for weddings and events. With a focus on sustainability, we provide a holistic design planning process that benefits both our clients and the planet!

Being awarded this honor is a true privilege. We are thrilled to have our passion for floral design acknowledged on a platform that celebrates the vibrancy and uniqueness of our local community. It's not just an award; it's a symbol of the strong connection we share with the wonderful people of Jersey City.

At A Petal To Peddle, we've always aimed to be more than just a floral design studio – we aspire to be a part of the fabric of our community, contributing to its beauty and joy. The title of the Best Floral Design Studio by Hoboken Girl reinforces our commitment to providing the highest quality blooms and innovative designs that resonate with the tastes and preferences of our cherished customers.

To our incredible clients, we owe this achievement to you. Your trust in our ability to create stunning floral arrangements for your special moments has been the driving force behind our success. Thank you for choosing A Petal To Peddle to be a part of your celebrations, from birthdays and weddings to everyday moments that deserve a touch of floral magic.

As the Best New Jersey Florist, we take pride in representing the excellence that our beautiful state has to offer. Your votes affirm our dedication to delivering the freshest flowers and the most enchanting arrangements, ensuring that each creation tells a unique story and captures the essence of the moment.

Image by Jenna Leggio

To those who honored us with the title of Best Wedding Florist, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. Your trust in our ability to add a touch of floral magic to your most special day is truly appreciated. We look forward to continuing to be a part of the cherished moments and milestones in your lives.

Being recognized by Hoboken Girl as the Best Floral Design Studio in Jersey City is not just a professional achievement for us; it's a recognition of our roots and the love we have for our local community. We are committed to staying deeply rooted in Jersey City, continually evolving to meet the ever-changing needs and preferences of our beloved customers.

Image by Jenna Leggio

As we move forward into 2024, we do so with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to excellence in every arrangement we create. To the readers of Hoboken Girl who took the time to vote for us, share their experiences, and support local businesses, we extend our sincerest thanks. Your support fuels our passion, and we are honored to continue serving you as the Best Floral Design Studio in Jersey City.

With heartfelt appreciation,

Christa and the A Petal To Peddle Team