Author: Jacqueline deMonTravel

Jacqueline deMontravel is 1-800-Flowers.com’s senior editor of floral and gifting. She is also an editor, writer, designer, artist and stylist. Previously, Jacqueline was the editorial director of Engaged Media’s Lifestyle group, overseeing such publications as Cottages & Bungalows, Romantic Homes, Yum, Seaside Style, Cottage White, French Style, Happy Modern and Rooms. Formerly the editor of Country magazine, she held editor positions at Self and GQ. She has been a contributor with Hearst's Harper's Bazaar and Black Book magazines.

What Kind of Holiday Decorator Are You? Three Profiles

The series “Unboxing the Holidays” is all about bringing you top-notch advice and creative ideas to make the most of the season’s special moments. In this story, we identify the three holiday decorator profiles and offer ideas for their decorations this year.

Walk down any street in your neighborhood in December, and it’s clear why it’s is the most wonderful time of the year. When you see the colorful trees sparkling through the windows and inflatable Santa’s getting knocked about from wintry gusts, you’re likely to reflect on your own home’s holiday aesthetic. Is it decked out with a Dickensian theme with burning candles and an abundance of garland? Or does it have holiday music playing on a continual loop? Perhaps it’s more reminiscent of a scene from Charlie Brown’s Christmas, maybe updated with a yule log flickering on the flat screen?

To help you get started with your holiday decor, we’ve identified three personas that capture the range of styles and care that go into decorating a home for the season. Whether you’re an Enthusiast, Traditionalist, and Last-Minute Stylist, we’ve got the ideas and the products for everyone.

The Enthusiast

Fill the Thermos with hot cocoa and jam the family in the Wagoneer, The Enthusiast will chop down their own Christmas tree. Dressed in Fair Aisle sweaters and a lumberjack hat, this holiday decorator is in sync with the cottagecore aesthetic, bringing in the pleasures of seasonal pastoral living into the home. Their decorating begins before Thanksgiving and can stay up well into the New Year.

Decorations are often homemade, such as gingerbread, garland, and wreaths. Attention to lighting is seen on everything from the outdoor porch to candles illuminating from every window.

Holiday movies and music are the main forms of entertainment right up to Dec. 25. Every room can benefit from holiday adornment. Every task, like writing holiday cards and baking, becomes part of the routine.

Pro tip: When cutting your own Christmas tree, find the freshest tree and cut lowest to the ground to allow for another tree to grow.

Best gifts for the Enthusiast

Delight The Enthusiast with Christmas flare options for their home, such as colorful, show-stopping Christmas roses to a holiday birdfeeder that will keep the season in perpetuity all year long. Preserved roses are not only a creative take on the original flower, they can do double duty for Valentine’s Day decor. And you can never have too many wreaths, as they are more than front door decoration and can be used throughout the home as well, such as hung over cabinets or as a centerpiece for the table.

The Traditionalist

Christmas vignette with snowman pillow — Picture of a traditional vignette in Valerie Ghitelman’s holiday home.

Just how grandma used to decorate is the motto The Traditionalist lives by. They’re devoted to classic styles, revel in the customs of the holiday, like hanging wreaths and decorating with candy canes. They get out the tape measurer to strewn a garland and wreath on and above the mantle in the same place each season. Updates are added via natural, classic poinsettias and paperwhites. A few new decorative pieces may be bought that build on an established classic style. Shabby stockings will be updated in a similar red and white Santa style. Their holiday possessions emit nostalgia, unlocking memories they hope to build on.

Valerie Ghitelman, vice president of product development, sourcing, and design of 1-800-Flowers.com is a Traditionalist because of her love of holiday nostalgia. “My sense of style is born from being surrounded by items that have history and a story to tell,” she says. “I am inspired by old-world culture, workmanship, and repurposing beautiful things from the past that had a purpose. There is a romantic charm that surrounds such possessions.”

Best gifts for the Traditionalist

Build on the love of collecting, such as toys and Christmas bears, for presents that are certain to be kept. An ornament is another heirloom holiday token that will be linked to the gifter each year. Ornaments on a traditional Christmas tree are like a holiday table, you can never have too much.

Pro tip: Spruce up packaging that comes with poinsettia by draping the container in burlap and tying with a tartan bow or inserting the plant in a wooden crate. You can also buy a styled poinsettia and save the festive container for future holidays.

Last-minute Stylist

Until there is a version of the Grinch’s umbrella Christmas tree that snaps into form with ease, the Last-Minute Stylist will forego erecting a full-size tree for a low-maintenance option. The joy found in decorating a tree is lost to the constant sweeping of pine needles and watering. Small, tabletop versions are attractive options over artificial selections because they offer something natural to the home. You also still get that pine fragrance without the fuss.

To continue on the no-fuss decorating approach, the Last-Minute Stylist prefers to shop online with ready-to-install decorations. Holiday candles, throw pillows, and seasonal food that can be part of the decor are popular choices in a Last-Minute Stylist’s home.

Best gifts for the Last-Minute Stylist

Gifts to use, such as Holiday Cheer Dipped Strawberries, holiday centerpieces, and flowers, are appreciated by the Last-Minute Stylist.

Pro tip: A succulent tree not only adds a unique touch to your Christmas decor but will last long after the holidays are over.

Whatever holiday decorator direction you take, enjoy the process, along with the comfort found in a holiday home. Says Ghitelman, “There are many choices, and every year they pick and choose from our broad offerings that are relevant, versatile, and on-trend for the holidays!”

8 Popular Types of Christmas Greens to Spruce Up the Holidays

The holidays have arrived, so now is the perfect time to brush up on your knowledge of holiday-related topics, including Christmas greenery. How many different types can you name? Become acquainted with the different kinds of Christmas greens below. They are a beautiful way to add something natural to your holiday home.

Fir

There are seven different types of Christmas tree firs: noble fir, balsam fir, Douglas fir, Fraser fir, grand fir, Canaan fir, and Concolor Fir. Each fir tree is unique. For example, Douglas firs range in height from 70 to 250 feet tall, while balsam firs are smaller in size and will grow to be about 40 to 60 feet.

Spruce

Spruce is another common variety you’ll see on the Christmas tree lot. Types of spruces include the Colorado blue spruce, Norway spruce, and white spruce. Similar to pines and firs, spruce trees have needles instead of leaves. The needles on spruce trees are attached individually to the branches rather than in clusters, which is the main difference between spruce and pine trees. Fir trees also have needles grown in this way, but spruce needles are sharp, whereas fir needles are not as pointy.

Pine

Another common holiday green is pine, which you’ll see on everything from Christmas trees to wreaths and fillers in Christmas flower arrangements. The varieties include white pine, Scotch pine, and Virginia pine. You can identify pine by its spindly needles and branches that appear to be bent upwards. It also tends to have fewer branches than other tree types.

Holly

Holly is another classic green plant with distinguishing red berries and prickly leaves. Prior to holly being used as a symbol of the Christmas season, the Druids viewed it as a sacred plant that symbolizes fertility and eternal life. While other plants die off during the winter, holly continues to thrive.

Juniper

Junipers are known for their short green foliage, blue berries, and sap. These hearty plants have a rugged, natural appeal, making them unique greenery to add to your Christmas decor.

Ivy

Ivy may be known for trademarking the top schools in the country, but it is also found in a number of Christmas arrangements. It adds texture and holiday green to arrangements, garland, or as a living wreath. Keep the cut ends in water to maintain their health.

Boxwood

Boxwood is great greenery for garland and wreaths because its fuller texture creates clean, modern arrangements. Its small leaves that closely resemble an olive tree are so attractive that you can use the clippings on their own for the holiday table or stuffed in a stocking.

Mountain laurel

For our readers in the South, you’re probably at least a little familiar with mountain laurel. This is because mountain laurel is traditionally seen in southern regions, and used in garlands and wreaths. It offers a simple spot of white, marked with pink etchings, and provides a refreshing alternative to more mainstay Christmas greenery. It’s best to use laurel outdoors to preserve its freshness.

A holiday home decorated with Christmas greens shows attention to personalization and classic style. Even branches clipped from your garden and strewn on the mantle or perimeter of the front door add instant merriness to the home. It’s especially festive to bring in something natural during the winter season.

Hello Tulip! 2022’s Flower of the Year

From floral facts to plant care hacks, “Living with Nature’s Best” brings you the latest updates on everything related to flowers and plants. In this article, we explore the tulip, the 2022 Flower of the Year.

Picture of woman with tulips, flower of the year 2022

Even after the longest and darkest winters, colorful tulips begin to emerge from the ground, offering the first joyous sign of spring’s warmth and happiness. These harbingers of better times are the perfect metaphor for 2022 – and the promise of the year ahead.

In anticipation of brighter days, 1-800-Flowers.com selected the tulip as the 2022 Flower of the Year. Thanks to vaccines and promising treatments, many experts expect that the worst of the pandemic will be over. Supply chain logjams should be largely untangled. And we’ll be able to accelerate reconnecting safely with friends and family.

“The tulip is a joyful and happy flower that is the first sign of spring, and that connects to this year of joy,” says Alfred Palomares, Vice President of Merchandising at 1-800-Flowers.com.

A useful flower that symbolizes hope for the new year

When selecting the Flower of the Year, 1-800-Flowers.com experts not only study the general zeitgeist, but also trends in fashion and interior design. Like 2021’s delightful sunflower, the tulip is a popular choice for bouquets, home and office decorations, and in design. Most importantly, it also elicits a cheerful response.

“We chose tulips because of their vibrant color and cheerful nature – a symbol of new beginnings and a sign of hopefulness for the future,” says Valerie Ghitelman, 1-800-Flowers.com Vice President of Product Development, Sourcing, and Design.

“They open during the day, reach toward the sun, and close at night. They make people happy,” Palomares adds. “It’s the icon of the 1-800-Flowers.com brand. They connect us with joy.”

Flowerside Chats: 2022 Flower & Plant of the Year

Tulip traits

Tulips are like that outgoing friend everyone loves to be around because they are relatable and fun. With more than 3,500 varieties, there are many different types to choose from, each offering its own take on joy and happiness. “The tulip is a friendly flower in terms of its uniformity and engaging characteristics,” Palomares says.

The flowers, which are among the five most popular purchased by 1-800-Flowers.com customers, are also very user-friendly. They don’t have a strong scent that can irritate people prone to allergies. Their fullness also minimizes the need for filler greenery in arrangements. From a new romance to sending good luck, each tulip color has a specific meaning that fits into all gifting categories.

Tulips create radiant bouquets that are filled with happiness! There is something about a bouquet of fresh tulips that tends to bring you back to a special time in your life that was filled with joy!

Valerie ghitelman

Vice President of Product Development, Sourcing, and Design

1-800-Flowers.com

The popularity of tulips in design

The simple shape of the tulip, along with a palette that could influence a paint line, make it a go-to bloom when creating everything from tablescapes to adding the right pop of color in a room’s design or a fashionable garment.

“At one session one evening, this young creative designer stood up and gave an impassioned plea that the logo should be simple and elegant, and she started talking about how the lines should sway,” McCann recalls. “I said, `It sounds like you’re talking about a tulip!’”

The next day, the designer returned with the iconic illustration of a tulip, and the new logo for 1-800-Flowers.com’s new logo.

Tulips in history

Tulips have a deeper history that extends well beyond the 1-800-Flowers.com logo. And no story about tulips would be complete without a mention of Holland.

Photo of Tulips in front of the Dutch parliament building

Interestingly, tulips originated in central Asia and spread to the Ottoman Empire (present-day Turkey), but that didn’t prevent the Dutch from becoming one the biggest distributors of the flowers. In the 16th century, tulips were imported to Holland from the Ottoman Empire and became one of the country’s leading commodities soon after.

During this time, known as “tulip mania,” the flowers were worth more than their weight in gold. But eventually, the market imploded after a default on a major tulip bulb contract. The crash – arguably history’s first burst of a financial bubble – is still recounted in economic textbooks.

Hundreds of years later, tulips played another role in Dutch history by helping prevent a nationwide famine. During a particularly cold winter at the end of World War II, the Nazis cut off food deliveries to Holland in retaliation for a train strike. Tulip growers had a surplus of bulbs that were grown during the war. The bulbs, which are described as tasting like onions or potatoes, were soon the subject of recipes that appeared in Dutch newspapers.

Even in the gloomiest of times, tulips brought joy and even health. Looking to 2022 with the optimistic tulip to cheer up the environment is something to celebrate. “In the end, tulips drive smiles,” says Palomares.

Meet the 2022 Plant of the Year: The Baby Rubber Plant

The series “Living with Nature’s Best” explores the many benefits of plants. This story announces why the 2022 Plant of the Year, the Baby Rubber Plant (Peperomia) was selected.

In retrospect, it’s not hard to pick a plant of the year or even the decade. Think about the 1970s, and spider plants and ferns in macrame hangers immediately come to mind. The 1980s? Nobody would be surprised to see a Money Tree planted on Gordon Gekko’s desk. And the 1990s saw the rise of orchids with clean lines reminiscent of circuit boards.

A trickier task is picking a plant for the upcoming year. It requires not just an understanding of plants and their symbolism, but also the hopes and ambitions for the coming year. For 2021, 1-800-Flowers.com captured the zeitgeist of the new year with the Red Maranta Prayer Plant for its positive vibes and peaceful nature. After 2020, who didn’t want a praying plant?

And, for 2022, the experts at 1-800-Flowers.com selected the Baby Rubber Plant (Peperomia), based on how it represents optimism for the new year ahead.

“The symbolism behind the Baby Rubber Plant is really about good fortune, good luck, and happiness,” says Alfred Palomares, Vice President of Merchandising and Resident Plant Dad at 1-800-Flowers.com. “All those qualities tie back to the idea of 2022 being about joy and happiness.”

An ad for the baby rubber plant, 2022's plant of the year

Plants are having their moment

Plants have experienced a major uptick in interest since the start of the pandemic, Palomares says. Homeowners found themselves working from the kitchen table, guest bedroom, and other spots that were decidedly not the regular office. And they looked to plants to spruce up the new work environment.

“When we were all quarantined and asked to go home, the first thing people did was buy plants,” Palomares says. “They wanted plants in their homes. They wanted to be comforted. They wanted the qualities they possess for helping clear the air and uplifting your home decor.”

The Baby Rubber Plant is an easy way to elevate the design of your home or office, thanks to its tear-drop-shaped leaves that appear to have been dipped in resin. “It’s high impact in terms of its beauty that it’s going to give to your home with those rich, glossy leaves,” Palomares says.

The plant’s allure extends beyond its symbolism and appearance. In a nod to the fact that many people will be returning to offices in the new year, the Baby Rubber Plant is incredibly easy to maintain and won’t suffer when its owner departs on business trips.

Baby Rubber Plant facts

The symbolism behind the Baby Rubber Plant is really about good fortune, good luck, and happiness. All those qualities tie back to the idea of 2022 being about joy and happiness.

Alfred Palomares

Vice President of Merchandising and Resident Plant Dad

1-800-Flowers.com

Native to the rainforests of South America, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Florida, the Baby Rubber Plant thrives in indirect sunlight and prefers temperatures from 65 to 75 degrees. In its native habitat, it thrives in high humidity and consumes the nutrients from tree debris and other detritus of the natural environment.

The Baby Rubber Plant’s scientific name, Peperomia obtusifolia, is derived from the Greek word “peperi,” meaning “pepper” and “homoios,” which means “resembling.” The plants not only resemble but are related to black pepper (Piper nigrum). The Baby Rubber Plant has also been called the Pepper face plant and more simply, the American rubber plant.

Palomares notes that the name is a bit of a misnomer. They are not used to produce rubber. And they’re not all that babyish: With proper care, the plants can grow to be about a foot tall.

Caring for a Baby Rubber Plant

The Baby Rubber Plant is considered a beginner’s plant because its succulent leaves retain moisture, and the plant only needs to be watered when the soil is dry. This typically ranges from once a week in the summer to up to two weeks in the winter.

It’s also relatively easy to propagate. The plant grows multiple “pups,” which can be cut and replanted to produce new plants.

“It’s something unique and different in terms of the look and feel,” Palomares says. “It’s interesting, it’s distinctive, and it’s really easy to care for. All of those things that this plant stands for tie back to the sentiment for 2022.”

Expert Poinsettia Care Tips to Keep Your Plant Thriving After Christmas

Previously known as the “Christmas Star” and “Mexican flame leaf,” this striking bloom caught the attention of Joel Robert Poinsett, an American physician and diplomat on a trip as America’s first ambassador to Mexico. In Mexico, the plant is called “la flor de Nochebuena.” Poinsett introduced the plant to the United States, hence its common English name “poinsettia.”

Poinsettia care year-round

When caring for a poinsettia plant, the most important considerations are temperature, light, and watering. Poinsettias are light-loving plants. They prefer southeasterly, easterly, or western window exposure. Being tropical, they thrive in temperatures of 65 to 70 degrees. At night, you can moved them to a cooler location but not one where the temp is below 60 degrees. In northern climates, keep plants away from drafts and cold windows.

“Poinsettia care starts when you make the purchase,” says Renato Cruz Sogueco, vice president of digital strategy at BloomNet. “Ironically, for a plant beloved during the cool holiday season, poinsettias dislike chilly weather!”

Sogueco advises to avoid buying the poinsettia placed right at the doorway or sold outdoors. Instead, choose the plants inside the shop, insulated within other poinsettias, and look for small, tightly clustered yellow buds in the center. “Inspect the foliage to confirm none are bent or damaged, which may be a sign they were exposed to cold during delivery,” he says.

Check the soil of your plant daily, making sure it is lightly moist but never soggy or overdry. Both dryness and over-watering can cause leaves to droop or fall. A half-hour after watering, check to see that your plant is not sitting in water. If there is excessive water at the bottom, drain it off; this prevents root damage.

Poinsettia facts

The bright colorful leaves of a poinsettia are often mistaken for the flowers of the plant, but the actual flowers are the yellow or green that grows in the center of the colored leaf clusters.
The myth that poinsettias are toxic to pets is just that — a myth. If eaten, the plant may cause irritation to a pet’s mouth or digestive system, but there has never been a recorded report of pet fatality.
Despite being a classic Christmas plant, poinsettias can be updated when planted in an on-point container or made into a holiday wreath, and white poinsettias bring in a tasteful, simple design to a holiday vignette.

poinsettia care Silent Night White Poinsettia — Silent Night White Poinsettia

poinsettia care Disney Mickey Mouse Minnie Mouse Poinsettia — Disney Mickey Mouse & Minnie Mouse Poinsettia

Poinsettia care after Christmas

While poinsettias are the flower most commonly associated with Christmas, they have overall wintry appeal and are a colorful addition to your plant collection. Do keep in mind, though, that these tropical plants require a good deal of care.

Pro tip: Sogueco notes that if you noticed frost on your trip over to purchase your poinsettia, cover the plant when you load it into the car. Even short exposure to cold could harm the plant.

“With this type of love and attention, you’ll be enjoying the poinsettia’s vibrant-colored leaves for weeks beyond the holiday,” Sogueco says.

9 Types of Family Members at Thanksgiving Dinner

Aside from the food that never seems to run out, one of the best things about Thanksgiving dinner is getting to spend time with relatives. It doesn’t matter if it’s family that you see every day, family that you see every few months, or family that you only see on major holidays — the fact that you get to spend quality time with your loved ones is reason enough alone to love a day like Thanksgiving.

But while you may be looking forward to seeing your immediate and extended family, we know that getting everyone together can be quite a show when personalities collide! Which of the following family members do you expect to encounter this year? We’ll add reasons for them to feel thankful, with stunning gift ideas that match their personality.

thanksgiving dinner Happy Turkey Day Dipped Strawberries

The chatterbox

Quite the opposite of the quiet one is the chatterbox — the relative who just can’t seem to stop talking, even if only to take a bite of turkey (yes, this is also the one that talks while chewing, giving you the lovely sight of the inside of their mouth). How do they possibly have anything left to say?

Best gift match: One way to hush a gabber is with chocolate covered strawberries. They’ll be so focused on the interplay of fruity sweetness and decadent chocolate tastes that you may miss their conversation.

The quiet one

You know this one — the one that shyly says hello (you may even only get a wave) and heads to the table to claim their seat before the festivities begin. In fact, chances are once they’re down, they won’t ever get up, even if the rest of the clan is congregating elsewhere. Oh, and don’t expect them to utter a word during dinner either.

Best gift match: They say that pets often look like their owners, but the same concept can be applied to personality types and plants. For those who always appear to be deep in thought, the artful bonsai tree espouses a pearl of quiet wisdom to inspire.

thanksgiving dinner Autumn Harvest Fruit Sweets Box

The jokester

Need a good laugh? This relative is by far the best one to turn to! In addition to cracking jokes over your Thanksgiving toast, this is the relative you’ll see everyone crowding around when there’s a break in the action. Not to mention, if anything gets too serious, they’ll find a way to lighten things up. We all need a good laugh now and then, don’t we?

Best gift match: From tossing popcorn in their mouth to finding ways to prank with tasty treats, bite-size snacks are a great way to encourage a jokester’s fun streak.

The cheek pincher

Even if you saw them just a few months ago, and even if you’re in or past your 20s (aren’t we a little old for this?), you can always count on one family member to pinch your cheeks and go off about how you look. Having a relative like this in the family is pretty much inevitable, so you might as well get used to it.

Best gift match: Cheek pinchers like all things cute, and pooches made of carnations from the a-DOG-able collection are pretty dog-gone adorable. Though you may want to add a warning label that pinching their floral cheeks is not recommended.

thanksgiving dinner Tiered Serving Station

The extrovert

We bet you already have someone in mind for this one. This is the family member who’s pretty much all over the place from the moment they walk in the door, and you may even consider them to be the life of the party so long as they don’t get too out of hand.

Best gift match: Entertaining and extroverts go hand in hand, which is why entertaining and barware gifts will be appreciated. Perhaps they may even have the idea to host next year’s Thanksgiving dinner?

The Debbie Downer

Let’s face it, every family has a member who will find something negative to say whenever they get the chance. Arrive at Thanksgiving dinner with no traffic? You just got lucky — you’ll hit it on the way home. Food smells great? It probably doesn’t taste as good as it looks. When this one’s around, you need to call in the jokester for sure.

Best gift match: Is it possible to cure the family downer? Zen gifts for relaxation are a great way to start. Otherwise, just find amusement in the negativity…this is the holiday of thankfulness, after all.

The selfie taker

Picture time! Whether you like it or not, you’ll be dragged into at least three pictures during Thanksgiving dinner. And you better make an effort to look your best, because you can bet they’ll all end up on some type of social media site — family and holiday hashtags included.

Best gift match: Help style a selfie taker’s post with emoticon truffle cake pops. The whimsical truffle cakes on a stick add colorful smiles that are bound to get a lot of likes.

The gossip

Along with the selfie queen, we also have the gossip queen. Want to know who your cousin’s dating now or what that argument between your two aunts is really about? This relative will definitely have the scoop…even if some of it’s a little dramatic.

Best gift match: Give the gossip queen something to talk about with a bouquet from the Flowers & Feels collection, which offers a stunning selection of arrangements from a talented roster of nationwide local florists.

thanksgiving dinner Purple Phalaenopsis Orchid

The impatient one

If they didn’t leave five minutes after walking in the door, they feel like they didn’t leave soon enough. You can pick this relative out of the crowd easily, as they’ll likely have their shoes and jacket on the moment everyone’s done eating. So, are you leaving yet?

Best gift match: A great way to achieve a sense of welcome and calm is with an orchid — though you may want to display it as part of the decor so it can be appreciated and then given as a parting gift.

Picture of a 1-800Flowers Thanksgiving ad

How to Transport Flowers Safely, No Wilting Necessary

Our series “Flower Care” offers expert tips and tricks to maintain your flower’s beauty. In this story, we review practical advice on how to transport your flowers safely by a car that’s as dependable as white-glove service delivery.

It’s a common flower lover’s dilemma: How do you transport flowers safely without compromising their beauty? Such moves can be perilous. Without the proper packaging, things can get pretty challenged and messy!

how to transport flowers with roses in car

If you’ve ever been the recipient of a gorgeous wedding floral arrangement, then you know exactly what we’re talking about. Imagine water all over your car’s floor mats. Or a crushed bouquet of flowers that you were trying to bring as a gift for a dinner party host.

Here’s the good news: You don’t need to be an expert to guarantee that your flowers will get from one destination to the next without a casualty. All you need is to follow a few simple tips.

For a bouquet

Do not store flowers in the trunk

Although you may think your trunk is secure, the lack of ventilation can damage your flowers’ ability to thrive, and they won’t look as healthy after a long trip. However, if you must use your trunk, it should only be done if outdoor temperatures are relatively mild — if it’s too hot or too cold, the flowers may wilt or freeze.

Avoid the dashboard

The dashboard is another place you shouldn’t place a bouquet during a drive. Although it is a flat surface, it is in direct line of the sun, which isn’t necessarily ideal for freshly cut flowers. You wouldn’t want your beautiful bouquet to wind up faded and sagging, would you? Also, it obstructs your view as you’re driving and can be very dangerous and hazardous.

Store in a water-filled bucket

The optimum method to transport anywhere from one bouquet, two bouquets, or too many to count is in a bucket filled with water. That way, they will be hydrated and can remain in an upright position. Keep in mind that you won’t want to fill the bucket with too much water, as this could lead to a spill if you hit a bump in the road; filling it just enough to wet your flowers’ whistle will do. But, even with minimal water, you can make sure that the bucket doesn’t get too jostled around by placing weights or sandbags on each side.

Pro tip: If you aren’t traveling too far, you can do away with the water altogether and just keep your bouquet(s) standing upright in the bucket — just be sure to arrange the flowers in a vase as soon as you arrive at your destination.

Transporting floral arrangements in a vase

Place on the floor

Although you may want to keep your floral arrangement next to you thinking that you can keep a better eye on it, placing a vase on a surface that isn’t necessarily flat could be an invitation for trouble. Therefore, you may want to choose the floor instead.

But let’s talk about what you should do with the water that’s in the vase when you receive your arrangement; to ensure that your flowers’ stems don’t need to be recut by the time your trip is over, keep approximately one-third of the vase filled before placing it on the ground. And even though this is quite a minimal amount of water, don’t forget to wrap an item like a blanket or sweatshirt around the vase’s base to keep it in place as you drive.

Pro tip: If you must keep your arrangement on a seat, whether front or back, be sure to use your seat belt for added protection.

Safeguard flowers in a box

If you anticipate that you’ll be bringing home a vase or two from an event, prepare yourself for the trip by packing a few cardboard boxes in the car. But, before you do, cut some openings in the top of the box in the shape of a star — this can help keep your arrangement sturdy as you drive. (Remember to place the box on the floor.)

Although this method is a surefire way to protect your arrangement regardless of the size, to be extra prepared, also pack newspaper that can be used to fill in each hole in case the cut-out seems to be a bit roomier than desired.

Secure blooms in your cup holder

Other than to store drinks, you may use your cup holders to collect change or temporarily hold your GPS while you drive. However, did you know that they can also safely transport floral arrangements from one place to the next?! That is, as long as the vase is small enough, of course. Should you choose this approach, we recommend using the cup holders in the back seat of your car so that they don’t become a distraction.

While a few of the above methods may require some extra preparation on your part, the end result will preserve your arrangements. By the time you get your flowers to their destination, they’ll still look freshly picked.

Picture of Celebrations Passport banner ad

Mind and Manners: The Importance of a Formal Table Setting

In our “A Time to Gather” series, we’ll teach you how to entertain like a pro. This guide on the correct way to set a formal table setting not only offers simple tips but learn why there’s always room for good manners at the table.

Etiquette is always in style

A dinner table can be styled with the latest trends like a mix of vintage tableware, textures such as burlap or velvet, table runners with metallic or kantha stitching, and an everchanging scope of floral centerpieces. A formal table setting, however, never changes or goes out of style. All dinnerware elements are correctly in place and it can leave an even stronger impression than trendy dishware. A beautifully appointed table is part of being a hospitable entertainer in that it makes your guests feel special and brings you closer to those around you.

“You can immediately set the mood and communicate the importance of a shared meal through a formal table setting,” says Julie Mulligan, 1-800-Flowers.com’s lifestyle and crafting expert. “By taking the time to set the stage with all of the elements needed to enjoy the meal — from silverware, plates, and napkins to glasses, candles, and flowers — you let your guests know that they are important and worth the effort.”

Formal table setting fundamentals

Formal table setting with photo guide on where to set the utensils, glasses, dishes, and linens. — In this photo guide to a formal table setting, note that all elements are properly placed. Flowers, centerpieces, and food can be set to the host’s preference.

Table settings have two variations. A general setting includes tableware based on what you are serving. There are no glasses, soup bowls, or salad plates if they are not part of the meal. A more formal table setting is what you’d see at a wedding or black-tie event that will have a multi-course meal.

The formal table setting may appear chaotic from its repetitive use of glasses and utensils, but all pieces support the rules of mealtime etiquette. The rule is to work your way toward the plate with your utensils, beginning with the salad fork at the start of the meal. “It is very logical. It teaches you what fork and knife to use when,” says Charlotte Ford, etiquette expert and author of 21st Century Etiquette Guide to Manners in the Modern Age.

How to set a formal table

Get ready to set! Gather your tabletop pieces and allocate almost two feet of space for each setting. The plate is in the middle, at an inch from the edge of the table. The pair of forks are to the left, knives and spoons are to the right, drinking glasses above the knife, and bread plate above the forks. Fork tines point upward, and the sharp edge of the knife faces the plate. The napkin is either set on the plate, next to the forks or beneath them.

If the dinner calls for soup, salad, red and white wines, along with coffee and tea – the salad is on the dinner plate, the soup bowl is on the plate, with a soup spoon above the bowl pointing to the bread plate. The drinking glass, along with the red and white wine glasses, is set as a trio, and the teacup and saucer are below the glasses/next to the spoon.

Pro tip: Make an OK gesture with both hands and place it over the utensils. The left-hand makes a lowercase b, which points to the “b-for-bread plate.” The right hand creates a d, which points to the “d-for-drinking glasses.”

A complete formal table set

When setting a formal table, begin by draping the table with a tablecloth, placemats, or one or the other. A beautiful surface that aptly showcases an elegant table setting will also do. Make sure your table is cleared to accommodate all the pieces that will compose your formal table setting.

Flatware: Salad, dinner, and dessert forks. Butter and regular knives. Soup, dessert, and regular spoons.

Dinnerware: Plates, cups, bowls, saucers, platters, and serving pieces.

Glassware: Water goblet, milk, wine glasses, and sherbet glass.

Creating the mood

Personalizing the formal table setting is a way for the host to share stories and her style. You can create a welcoming atmosphere with candlelight, an enjoyable playlist, and flowers. Experiment with the setting’s design with a mix and match of colorful plates or stylish napkin rings. Place cards are a classic detail that removes any awkwardness associated with where to sit. A pedestal plate used as a centerpiece showcasing start-your-diet-tomorrow desserts looks divine. “I love the process of setting the table! Let’s face it, there is a lot of work that goes into preparing a delicious meal,” says Mulligan. “And my reward to myself is setting aside the time to create a beautiful tablescape using both cherished family pieces as well as items I’ve collected through the years. And of course, elevating it all with fresh flowers or greenery, and beautiful lighting!”

Create a Guest Bedroom Visitors Won’t Want to Leave

Good news if you enjoy having friends and family stay overnight: This season your guest bedroom can be revamped so it’s more than a place to store that unused exercise equipment (ahem). In fact, as entertaining for the holiday season ramps up, it’s the perfect time to show your spare bedroom a little love.

guest bedroom tips with bed that shows guest bedroom tips.

The design of a guest bedroom can be a challenge, since your guest’s comfort has to be front and center, and you want them to feel at home. It should have a balance of cozy touches while also being clutter-free. Use a hotel room as inspiration when creating the ideal guest sanctuary: The best hotels masterfully address a visitor’s needs while adding welcome personal touches like flowers and spa robes. Here are simple guest bedroom tips for creating a well-designed and comfortable haven:

1. Design

Start planning your guest bedroom by finding inspiration in your go-to social media home decor feeds and interior design magazines and on websites. Create a mood board of your favorite styles, then begin by sourcing needed pieces or finding ways to use what you have to create the desired look. Don’t want to shell out for a major redesign? Simply update existing furnishings with a thorough clean and fresh paint.

2. Edit the room

The uncluttered design of a hotel room spotlights the amenities on offer. Use the minimalistic hotel design formula as inspiration for your guest room’s scheme. Keep the room pared down to essential furnishings (no personal knickknacks that make a guest feel like, well, a guest), and make sure all accessories serve a function or add decorative detail, like plants.

3. Furnishings and accessories

If you are buying new furnishings, it’s important to consider style and organization. End tables are handy for added storage if they come with drawers, and they are essential for placing a bedside lamp, glass, notepad, and clock. Perhaps consider a television set for late-night viewing. If you have room, include a desk to create a makeshift workplace. An empty closet and bureau are also essential so guests can stow their belongings, and a lined trash bin is another must. Add a stunning piece of wall art to anchor the room, selecting a piece with colors or patterns that match the room’s design. A unique ottoman is perfect for placing a suitcase or as impromptu seating.

Pro tip: A full-length mirror is useful for guests, and mirrors also add to the design, create the illusion of more space, and brighten the room.

4. Keep to your home’s design

The itch to experiment with trends in your guest bedroom design is enticing, but don’t create a look that’s a complete departure from your home’s style. It would appear out of place if you have an edgy, ultramodern room in a traditional home, for example. The best way to sample trends is with artwork, linens, and other nonpermanent accents.

5. Linens

Bedding is an opportunity to add color, pattern, and comfort to the room. Choose linens that are both durable and cozy. “There are so many great bedding options available now that you can affordably buy quality sheet sets,” says Jodi Lahaye, owner of Hedgehouse, which sells fine linens. “I’m not a slave to thread count, but 200 is where I start, and Egyptian cotton percale is my favorite.”

Boost the bed’s comfort factor by including a variety of sheets and blankets for a layered, relaxing feel. A throw at the foot of the bed brings in a warm detail. And talking of warmth, keep an extra blanket stashed in the closet in case temperatures drop and there isn’t a thermostat for your visitor to adjust.

6. Pillows

guest bedroom tips with striped Euro-sized pillows

Since your guest bedroom may have limited space, create a hybrid seating/sleeping area using the bed. Back to that hotel room: Their beds are made with two or three rows of different-size pillows. Follow their lead, and place the larger pillows against the headboard followed by standard-size pillows, with a decorative pillow in the front. A variety of sizes adds comfortable options and also creates a decorative effect. Here’s a handy pillow size guide to help you place orders:

Euro: 26″ x 26″

King size: 20″ x 36″

Standard size: 20″ x 26″

Decorative throw pillow: From 12″ x 12″ to 18″ x 18″

Lumbar: 14″ x 22″

7. Towels

guest bedroom tips with sunflowers in a guest bedroom

Provide a full set of towels, which includes a finger, hand, and bath towel. If the guest is staying more than one night, have a laundry basket for used towels. An added luxury: Keep a hotel-grade bathrobe and reusable slippers in the closet.

Pro tip: Heat towels in the dryer, so guests have warm towels when they arrive.

8. Fresh flowers

We’re willing to bet that the first detail a guest will notice when they arrive is a stunning flower arrangement. Flowers are that added detail that shows care, thought, and an appreciation for beauty. They’ll also make for a great conversation piece and stunning prop in your photos together.

9. Lighting

Keep window shades open. Natural sunlight creates an inviting space and makes the room appear larger. Supplement with a good overhead light and bedside lamps. Window treatments let guests adjust the light to their preference.

Pro tip: Clean windows with a mixture of vinegar and water. Just spray onto the windows and use newspaper to rub away the solution. It removes the smudge!

10. Spa experience

Let your guests indulge in a spa experience. Provide a spa kit, candle, and diffuser to encourage relaxation. Interested in massages? If you know of a local masseuse who makes house calls, provides their cards or contact information — it could prompt a fun activity!

11. Snacks & beverages

Leave a tray with nourishing light bites and beverages. Travel works up an appetite, and guests will appreciate the beautiful arrangement of delicious snacks. A combination of both healthy foods and a sweet chocolate treat appeals to even the finickiest of eaters.

12. Leisure amenities

Store classic entertainment pieces like puzzles, games, reading materials, and notepads out of the way in the bottom drawer of a bureau or media cabinet. Let guests know that they are welcome to use and enjoy them.

13. Creative sleeping quarters

Expecting a large number of guests who need to be accommodated? Be creative with your space and design alternative sleeping quarters that are inviting and cozy. Sure, the air mattress is a convenient option over the spare sofa, but some may want to sleep on something with a little less bounce. A comfortable, grown-up option is a feather throw bed strewn with large soft pillows. “I’m always referring to the throw bed as the Swiss Army Knife of home textiles,” says Lahaye of Hedgehouse, which is known for its ultra-comfy throw beds with durable washable covers in simple striped patterns or denim.

Pro tip: Add string lights above the bed for an enchanting effect.

14. House notes

In a notebook, pad, or emailed document, list important information such as Wi-Fi codes, rules (and quirks) of the home, and any helpful details, like suggestions for cool coffee shops or parks and museums. This simple gesture will help your guests feel both at home and on vacation. They may feel so pampered, don’t be surprised if they ask for another invite!