Kate L. Harrison, Author at 1800Flowers Petal Talk

5 Best Housewarming Gift Ideas

housewarming gift ideas with couple celebrating moving into first home

Buying a home is stressful and requires a major investment. So, when your real estate agent hands you the keys to your first house, you should feel a sense of accomplishment and be in the mood to celebrate.

But as a first-time home buyer — particularly in this hyper-competitive market — you may have had to make some concessions.

“In this market, it can be difficult to get everything you want while staying within your purchasing power,” says Brian Fritz, a realtor at Elfant Wissahickon Realtors in Philadelphia.

It also can be hard to furnish a new home as elaborately as you would like, after having put so much money into the purchase of it. That’s why picking out a thoughtful housewarming gift for a first-time homebuyer is so crucial.

“A gift is an important way to celebrate the ‘win’ of buying a new home, and a chance for you to recognize the recipient’s individuality,” Fritz says.

Here, Fritz shares five housewarming gift ideas that will show the recipient you are thinking of them and have their needs in mind.

1. Personalized gifts

“Personalized gifts are special. Several times I have ordered framed drawings or paintings of a clients’ new home as a gift,” Fritz notes. “This can be particularly nice when the buyers have purchased their dream house.”

You also can’t go wrong with a tasteful gift displaying the family’s name. Doormats make a practical gift with a personal touch. “It is also nice to match a personalized item to a lifestyle or hobby the new home enables,” Fritz says. For example, personalized BBQ tools are the perfect complement to a new deck and grill. Fun beach towels work well for seaside homes, and new homeowners who have raved about their gardening plans might be excited to receive personalized stones for their new landscaping pathways.

“Any gift that includes a personal touch will help the first-time homebuyer commemorate the excitement of purchasing their new home,” Fritz says.

2. Food and drink gifts

New homeowners are busy moving, organizing, and decorating — and that means they’re working up an appetite. “Food gifts are always a great option,” Fritz says. Snacks, beverages, or entire meals are a welcome gift for any new homeowner. “I frequently give clients a tray of homemade chocolate-covered pretzels. If the buyers have kids, you’re a real hero!”

You can also achieve hero status without spending time in the kitchen by buying a prepared tray of desserts or cookies, or a fruit basket or vegetable box, for those who are more health conscious.

3. Kitchen gifts

Fritz says he is seeing more emphasis being placed on the kitchen area of the home. “People are more into cooking and baking than they used to be,” he says. “Any new homeowner who loves to cook will be excited about their new kitchen.”

For those types, kitchen tools and supplies make ideal housewarming gift ideas. Towels and aprons are practical presents that make a lovely gesture for a new homeowner. Unique tools and gadgets are fun gifts for home chefs with new kitchens. And beautiful serving pieces, platters, and bowls may even get you a dinner party invitation!

4. Plants and flowers

Exterior space also is in high demand. “Homeowners put a premium on outdoor space,” Fritz notes. “Buyers who are moving from the city to the suburbs want a yard with space to sprawl out and relax.”

Fritz is a huge fan of plants as a housewarming gift. “They add so much positive energy to a space and can really make a great impact on a home,” he says. “Plus, who doesn’t love receiving fresh flowers?!”

Houseplants are also a great housewarming gift ideas because they last a long time (when properly cared for, of course) and help purify the air. Succulents are a low-maintenance option for new homeowners, as these charming plants require very little water and attention. If the recipient has a green thumb, consider a houseplant that blooms, such as a gardenia or azalea, or one that requires a little more care, such as a calathea rattlesnake (the 2023 Plant of the Year) or orchid (the 2023 Flower of the Year).

5. Gift cards

Gift cards may be the least personal option, but they offer a lot of utility. “Most first-time homebuyers have a laundry list of items they need to purchase and are already on a tight budget,” Fritz says. “For these reasons, I like to give gift cards to home goods stores or home improvement stores. I typically like to accompany those gifts with a bottle of champagne or wine for couples to celebrate their milestone.”

3 Self-Care Ideas for Spring to Help You Feel Refreshed and Reinvigorated

Spring is the season of awakening, when the warm air invites us to bring our best selves into the light, along with the year’s first blooms. “Spring is synonymous with new beginnings, growth, and flourishment,” says Kate Tunstall, self-improvement expert and founder of Refined Prose, a well-being and journaling blog dedicated to sharing science-backed theories and tips to support mental health and wellness. “Prioritizing holistic self-care is vital to flourishing, and spring is the ideal time for fresh starts — without the pressure associated with ‘resolutions.’ It’s a great time to double down on making self-care a priority, in a positive way.”

So, where should you begin? Ask yourself these three important questions to reflect on the best self-care practices for you and help map your path from where you are now — at the start of the growing season — to where you would like to be when summer’s sunshine begins bathing us in warmth.

1. Do I feel supported and connected?

Making time to connect with friends, family, and loved ones can be difficult if you are already feeling stretched thin, but it is essential for maintaining mental and emotional health. “Humans rely on socializing for more than just companionship,” Tunstall notes. “Studies show that building deep connections with others is fundamental for good mental health and, conversely, their absence is psychologically harmful. With that in mind, forging and reinforcing deep bonds with loved ones is not just a pleasant aspect of self-care — it’s a cornerstone.”

The key is to not wait until you need support to reach out but to be proactive about it. The dawn of spring is the perfect time to put a little extra energy into the relationships that make you feel safe and loved. Instead of sending a quick text, invite your best friend to go for coffee or a walk in the park. Call your parents or siblings on your lunch break or invite a friend you have not seen for a while to meet up somewhere fun over the weekend.

You can also foster connection with a “just because” gift — a little surprise to brighten someone’s day. Show your love with a bright arrangement of flowers, basket of sweet and savory snacks, or handwritten letter in the mail. Then, follow up with a call to make them feel extra cared for. Like the classic children’s book “Fill a Bucket” teaches, when you fill someone else’s bucket with love, you fill yours at the same time.

2. Do I feel calm, relaxed, and peaceful?

spring self care ideas with woman relaxing on blanket

“Relaxation and calm are other vital elements of self-care, helping individuals to recalibrate and decompress,” Tunstall explains. While it may be possible to accept every invitation, show up to every event, and grant every favor, your physical limits prevent you from bringing your best self to each occasion. “Scheduling time for calm is an important way to build resilience for coping with our hectic lives,” Tunstall says.

Additional sleep can help. In addition to practicing good sleep hygiene at night, cat naps can make you feel more rested and sharpen your cognitive abilities. Try using a sleep mask to help stay asleep when it’s bright outside. You can also try restorative practices like meditation and yoga, which can “help strengthen social attachments, reduce stress and relieve anxiety, depression, and insomnia,” as well as improve balance and muscle tone.

Finally, Tunstall suggests making space in your life for activities that restore your sense of self and give you more energy. Perhaps you love to read, journal, craft, or make art. “Journaling and spending time in nature are excellent ways to achieve a sense of harmony,” she says. “Journaling is especially good for facilitating increasing self-awareness, making peace with life challenges, and developing a positive outlook.”

Gardening is the perfect hobby for spring, as you can plant and quickly see your hard work pay off in colorful blooms. Even if you live in an apartment, you can grow your own colorful garden in a bag with a seed kit.

3. Do I feel happy and joyful?

At our core, we humans are naturally curious beings who often crave novelty, even within the confines of the stable routines that help us feel secure. But as we get older, it’s easy to lose our natural child-like wonder. Spring is a great time to reconnect with the kid in all of us. “As adults, we tend to neglect play,” Tunstall says, “but it remains an important aspect of self-care. The benefits include stress relief, the release of endorphins, and improved relationships.”

Play doesn’t need to be complex or require a lot of extra energy. “Play can take many forms, but ultimately anything that brings joy and exhilaration counts!” Tunstall exclaims. “That might look like being creative or artistic, baking cookies, or playing a high-octane sport that provides an adrenaline rush.”

Simple pastimes you loved as a kid can often provide new joy as an adult. Joining an adult sports league, taking a dance class, or doing a paint by number kit can provide just the reinvigoration you need.

The practices of spending time with people you love, relaxing your body and mind, and seeking new experiences that bring you joy are enriching all year round, but they are especially timely as self-care ideas for spring. It is the ideal season to ask yourself the three aforementioned questions and answer them honestly, and then take action. After all, no one ever regretted setting aside more time to focus on themselves and their well-being.

As Tunstall says, “Adding a little bit of what you fancy is good for the soul!”

Self-care gift ideas for spring

Quiet the Mind Journal Aromatherapy Gift Set — Quiet the Mind Journal & Aromatherapy Gift Set

Cheryls Cut Out Cookie Decorating Kit — Cheryl’s Cut-Out Cookie Decorating Kit

5 Ideas for Celebrating National Random Acts of Kindness Week

“Being kind” is one of the core values of our society. But, as every parent knows, kindness is something that must be actively taught and fostered starting at a young age.

While kindness isn’t a time-specific concept, parents and caregivers can certainly use Random Acts of Kindness Week as a jumping-off point to talk to children about what it means to be kind.

sally macaluso

Founder of parenting blog Tenderhearted Teacher

“Kindness is a critical aspect of social-emotional development,” notes Sally Macaluso, early childhood educator and founder of the parenting resource blog Tenderhearted Teacher. “Teaching a child kindness, compassion, empathy, mindfulness, and other social-emotional learning (SEL) skills in early childhood can help them continue these practices in adulthood.”

While there are many formal ways to teach these skills, setting a good example, Macaluso says, is among the best. “Ultimately, one of the most effective ways to teach a little one — about any topic, really — is through modeling. Kindness is no different,” she says.

In other words, children look to adults to learn what kindness is and how to express it. This means that grown-ups, as caregivers and community members, have the power to show them that kindness lives in the little moments that happen every day and that these little moments can add up to a lifetime of positive experiences and healthy connections. Choosing to smile at a stranger, take a deep breath before losing our temper, or offer the last piece of cake to a friend are small ways we can show kindness in our daily lives.

A week dedicated to kindness

Random Acts of Kindness Week, celebrated this year from Feb. 11-17, was started in 1995 by the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation in Colorado with the goal to “make kindness the norm.” Macaluso notes, “While kindness isn’t a time-specific concept, parents and caregivers can certainly use Random Acts of Kindness Week as a jumping-off point to talk to children about what it means to be kind.” Setting aside time to celebrate with kids highlights how important the topic is and supports the organization’s mission of connecting all people through kindness.

5 ways to celebrate National Random Acts of Kindness Week

When it comes to modeling kindness, no act is too small. The ideas below are meant to spark valuable conversations about the many ways kindness positively affects both the giver and receiver. They encourage children to be themselves and celebrate the week in ways inspired by their unique personalities. And, hopefully, they motivate kids to take the lessons they learned and carry them with them throughout their lives.

random acts of kindness day with child taking care of a dog

1. Help our four-legged friends (and their owners)

A great way to show kindness is by volunteering at or donating to a local animal shelter. Macaluso mentioned that one year her students visited a local shelter to donate pet supplies and drop off a homemade poster thanking the staff and volunteers. Another idea is asking around the neighborhood or on social media if any pet owners in your community need their animals walked or fed while they’re home alone during the week. You can also consider buying a gift for the pet lover in your life.

2. Give the gift of nourishment

Cooking and delivering meals or home-baked cookies to a friend or loved one is a thoughtful act. “The way to a person’s heart is through their stomach, so what better way to show someone you’re thinking of them than with a yummy gift?” Macaluso jokes. “I can say with certainty that it always brings a smile to my face whenever a student surprises me with a sweet treat made with care.” She adds that you could also bring a prepared meal or baked goods to a local fire department, hospital, or senior citizens center. Random acts of kindness don’t have to be extravagant — they just have to come from the heart.

random acts of kindness day with kids cleaning up neighborhood

3. Clean up their community

Consider having them collect and dispose of trash at a local park or public greenway. You can also have them help older folks tidy up their yard or shovel their driveway, if it’s recently snowed. If weather permits, Macaluso also suggests leaving positive messages in sidewalk chalk for frontline workers and first responders in public places. “These thoughtful acts are appropriate any time of year, to spread kindness and joy throughout our communities,” she notes.

4. Express their feelings through words, pictures, or presents

Little ones crave personal connection. Help them reach out to a person they miss by crafting a handwritten letter, creating an original piece of art, or sending flowers. “We live in a time when staying connected to others is easier than ever,” Macaluso says. “No matter the distance, your child can share a heartfelt message or send a handmade gift to let someone know they’re thinking of them.”

5. Thank a favorite helper

Educators play a large role in modeling behavior, too. Encouraging your child to thank the people who make their day great is an easy gesture that goes a long way. Have them write or decorate a thank-you card to their favorite teacher, staff member, or athletic coach to show their appreciation. Macaluso says, “This simple gesture explaining how this person has made a positive impact on their life can instantly lift someone’s spirits.”

Picture of Celebrations Passport banner ad

4 Winter Wedding Flower Ideas

Winter is a magical time of year to get married. The holidays engender a festive atmosphere throughout the season; snow, in many places, blankets the ground, creating a beautiful backdrop to our outdoor activities; and the nights are filled with cozy fires, comforting foods, and hot beverages.

“When I think winter, I think of the brisk air, ice, earmuffs, twinkle lights, and sugar plum fairies,” says veteran florist Lynn Mehl, founder of Good Old Days Eco-Florist in New Windsor, New York.

No matter what part of the country, whether temperate or seasonal, evergreens are always top of mind in the winter.

Lynn Mehl

Founder, Good Old Days Eco-Florist

These elements, and others that conjure up images of the season, can provide inspiration for your winter wedding flowers, Mehl says — but don’t feel beholden to them. While you may opt for a more traditional winter look, with white roses, baby’s breath, and red winterberries, keep in mind that this is, after all, your wedding, and whatever decorations you choose should match your aesthetic.

“Don’t be afraid to get creative with your winter wedding floral décor,” she says.

A winter wedding, Mehl notes, doesn’t even have to include flowers typically associated with the season. “Depending on when in winter your event is happening, you can weave in hints of first spring as well!”

With so many beautiful flowers to choose from, you might feel overwhelmed when it comes to creating a stunning backdrop for your nuptials. To provide some guidance, Mehl offers her top four winter wedding flower trends for 2024.

1. Green winter botanicals: The evergreen trend

“From the cypress and pines in the southern states to the spruces and cedars of the north, no matter what part of the country, whether temperate or seasonal, evergreens are always top of mind in the winter,” Mehl says.

So, how do you showcase these evergreen treasures in your wedding floral décor? Mehl suggests mixing two popular trends, weaving a natural “unconstructed” look with a popular vintage wedding style. “Consider a bouquet of mixed evergreens with bits of dried flowers, magnolia and kale, miniature pine cones, and even mosses,” Mehl encourages. For even more drama, add sprigs of baby’s breath along with a multitude of satin shower ribbons, she suggests. “The effect makes for a beautiful and historical representation of the season.”

2. Holiday time trimmings: The spirit of Christmas

“Holiday bouquets have always centered on a Christmas spirit, and still do,” Mehl explains. Many brides have opted in the past to include a small cross amid a bouquet of lush evergreens to signify the promise of new life. “They often surround these greens with red everything and anything,” Mehl says. But now she is seeing a new twist on this classic Christmas wedding look. “The trend is for the festive bouquet to include tiny, vintage ornaments or little silver bells on shower streamers to ring as the bride walks down the aisle.” Sometimes these items come from one or both couple’s families, bringing “something old” to this new stylish trend.

winter wedding flowers with amaryllis bouquet

As for the red floral elements, couples are opting for classic and simple choices, “such as a solid bouquet of stunning dark roses or an arm bouquet of red amaryllis. Then evergreens or evergreen trees, such as lemon and magnolia, provide the winter background,” Mehl explains.

Her favorite up-and-coming bouquet choice for couples looking to infuse the holiday spirit into their special day is “a lush bouquet of holly, with its bright red berries, to represent ‘domestic happiness.’“

3. Winter wonderland: January sparkle

It’s impossible to think of a winter-themed setting without imagining strings of enchanting twinkle lights. “The ethereal appeal of the dreamlike winter wonderland never wanes, and for good reason,” Mehl says. “Everything in snowy winter is white, crisp, sparkling, and magical…so what better background for a bride to be surrounded by?”

In addition to using Christmas lights on and around the ceremony site, Mehl says to play up the enchanted aspects of a winter wonderland theme and embrace the popular 1940’s floral trends that have come back around, with “large bouquets of snowball hydrangeas accented with fluffy cotton bolls, faux pearls, and fresh lemon leaves.” For the reception, she suggests adding a mix of “paper snowflakes, white birch, and lacy hemlock and blue spruce evergreens with candles everywhere” to create an instant wonderland.

4. Late winter wedding flowers: Add hints of spring

For couples who choose to hold their wedding in late winter but before spring has sprung, finding a floral décor that bridges the seasons is a great way to make a splash. “Although the winter season is nearing its end, evergreen bouquets are still perfect as a base bouquet, but you can freshen them with the first blooms of spring,” Mehl explains. “In many parts of the country, early spring flowers, such as white tulips and narcissus, are available by late January. You can pair these with delicate Muscari (aka grape hyacinths) and miniature roses for a truly gorgeous result.”

Silver is a trending late winter color, and “popular accents this year will include silver artemisia, snowberries, and the perennially popular varieties of eucalyptus. Complementing evergreens are juniper, with its blue berries, and the feathery gray cypress, both touched with a bit of faux snow just to keep the winter wonder.”

7 Fall Wedding Favors That Are Also Eco-Friendly

One thing that makes your wedding day so special is the fact that friends and loved ones have traveled — whether from across the country or just across town — to share in your joy. It’s no wonder, then, that the small remembrance, the wedding favor, is such a popular way of giving your guests a token of your thanks, allowing them to take something home to commemorate the special day.

If you are having a fall wedding, now is the perfect time to select and order your wedding favors. “Whether you’re planning a sustainable or eco-friendly wedding or you just want to be environmentally conscious, choosing an option that’s easy on the earth is one way of making your autumn wedding memorable,” explains Sandra Di Domizio, a certified Green Wedding Professional who runs Green Fox Events & Guest Services in California.

With that in mind, here are seven eco-friendly fall wedding favor ideas that will send your friends and loved ones home happy.

fall wedding favors with succulents trio

Small succulents

Nothing says “green” like something that’s literally green! Succulents are among the most sustainable and easy-to-care-for plants in the world. They require very little water or attention, are non-toxic to cats, and do well indoors — making them the perfect addition to any desk, shelf, or windowsill.

A trio of mini-succulents is a low-maintenance gift, and they come potted in trendy ceramic containers that provide a sense of sustainable style that matches any décor. Choose from several different themes, including safari animals and inspirational messages. There’s even a trio that comes in magnetic planters!

fall wedding favors with seed planting set

Seed balls

Allow your friends and loved ones to seed your love throughout their gardens with seed balls, which you can make yourself or buy online. These seed balls are made from recycled materials and seeds specifically meant to attract pollinators, including insects and birds. Once your guests return home, all they have to do is place the balls on top of soil, either in a container or garden, and water them. After a few weeks, they’ll have fresh flowers, green thumb or not.

fall wedding favors with hand creams and face mask set

All-natural hand creams

While you’re being pampered on your honeymoon, let your guests enjoy their own at-home spa-like experience. The Lovery Hand Cream & Mask Set is a set of scented creams and hand masks that will keep your guests’ hands soft all winter.

These all-natural creams are gently crafted with healthy botanicals from one of 10 natural sources, including oatmeal milk, eucalyptus, green tea, avocado, jojoba, and carrot. Better yet, they’re free of parabens and harsh chemicals, and are not tested on animals. With 10 tubes and five masks in each package, you can easily divide them up and put one of each (or more!) in a small gift bag.

Beeswax candles

Bees are one of the most environmentally important insects, and their populations are threatened across the United States. In addition to moving pollen between plants, allowing them to flower and reproduce, bees also produce honey for us to eat and bee pollen, a nutrient-rich superfood that has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties.

“Bees are a symbol of sweetness, wisdom, and prosperity in many cultures, so a beeswax candle is a wedding favor that’s not only sustainable but also meaningful,” Di Domizio notes. This particular candle is shaped like an old-fashioned beehive (a.k.a. a “bee skep”) and is unscented, so it will please even those guests who are scent or allergen sensitive.

Fall-themed cookies

“Food gifts make terrific eco-friendly wedding favors because there’s no waste,” Di Domizio explains. “Frosted cookies travel well, and nothing tells guests how much the couple appreciated their presence like a sweet treat.”

An autumn-themed cookie card is perfect for the season. It is a delicious and charming remembrance that is sure to make guests smile.

Popcorn treats

Caramel is one of those classic fall flavors that is always a crowd pleaser. Another hassle-free (and sweet!) thank-you option is a popcorn card, which comes in a variety of designs and contains delicious caramel popcorn. You can personalize the greeting on the front of the card to tie into your wedding theme, or to express love and gratitude in a way that best reflects your personalities.

Homemade jam

Raspberries are in season from June to October, and if you live near a pick-your-own (or a farmer’s market in a pinch), you can easily procure enough berries to make your own homemade jam favors. These require only three ingredients: raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. You can find small jelly jars in most craft stores or online for less than $1 each. Add a custom label to finish the look (e.g., “Thank you berry much for celebrating with us!”).

No matter which favor you choose for your fall wedding, a sustainable or eco-friendly option shows your friends and loved ones that they mean as much to you as the planet does.

3 Benefits of Having Flowers and Plants in the Classroom

The term “biophilia” was coined by psychoanalyst Erich Fromm to describe the innate human attraction to nature. Of course, live plants and flowers beautify a classroom — but adding them to a learning environment is more than great design. It also has tangible health and wellness benefits for both students and teachers.

A plant is an ideal entry point into the care and keeping of living things. It is a life skill that can be shared and modeled for other students in the classroom.

Karen Aronian, Ed.D.

Classroom environments strongly influence students’ moods and motivations. A 2020 study published in Building and Environment found that students actively prefer classrooms that include nature and live plants can help students learn more effectively. Students report fewer health issues after spending even short periods of learning in a plant-enriched environment — in some cases, a single lecture was enough. The presence of plants also impacts how students perceive both their educational experience and their instructor, as the same study also found adding indoor plants improves both teacher and educational evaluations.

The benefits of living green plants in a school environment extend far beyond self-reported improvement. “There are endless ways to imbue flowers and plants into our classrooms and nearly as many reasons to do so,” says education design expert Karen Aronian, Ed.D. “Indoor nature can inspire students, improve focus, and reduce anxiety.”

Here are three reasons science says it is beneficial to “go green” in the classroom.

1. Plants improve attention and classroom behavior

Attention and focus are essential for productive learning, but classrooms are inherently full of distractions, such as use of mobile devices, tardiness, and disruptive behavior. Science shows that teachers can improve focus by reducing artificial stimulation with natural elements. Features like green walls can substantially reduce acoustic stimulation, and even a few standalone plants can make a difference. One study found that children with ADHD consistently experience more sustained concentration in classrooms with live plants.

classroom plants with group of school kids with teacher planting herbs

“The act of caring for a plant can provide a big boost for a child’s self-esteem and instill them with a greater sense of responsibility,” Aronian says. “Plant care includes everything from identifying the plant, watering, transplanting, and tracking growth to ensuring the plant has good soil, light, and a temperate environment.

“A plant is an ideal entry point into the care and keeping of living things. It is a life skill that can be shared and modeled for other students in the classroom,” she continues. “It also improves children’s behavior, attentiveness, and confidence.”

2. Classroom plants improve air quality

Live plants are natural filters, helping to remove toxins and allergens from the air, and putting them in a classroom environment adds oxygen and reduces pollution and airborne dust. “Indoor classroom air is different than outdoor air in that it usually contains higher levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) off-gassing from carpets, glues, and cleaning solutions,” explains Lorena Torres Martinez, assistant professor of biology of St. Mary’s College of Maryland. “Some plants have adapted to metabolize VOCs as part of their protective mechanism, to ward off insects or as a way to attract pollinators, so these species are better at removing these toxins from the environment.”

classroom plants with schoolgirls giving teacher bouquet in classroom

One such plant is an English Ivy, which Torres Martinez keeps in her office because it has been shown to remove toxins — including toluene and benzene, two common carcinogenic indoor pollutants found in paint and glue, among other things — from the air. Snake plants and air plants are also popular air purifying choices. So, how many plants do you need? While there is no standard regarding how many plants are needed to clean the air in a classroom, based on NASA studies from the 1980s, the current rule of thumb is two large plants for every 100 square feet of enclosed space.

Plants and flowers also help improve the scent of a room. Many people are sensitive to chemical fragrances, but flowers act as natural air fresheners. Colorful cut flowers are also an easy addition to classrooms with few windows, as they do not require direct sunlight to thrive.

3. Living plants reduce anxiety and support mental health

The number of students experiencing anxiety, depression, and isolation is at an all-time high. One of the leading causes of this is the overuse of digital devices, which can negatively affect the brain and impair social and emotional intelligence.

One way to help combat these problems is to fill classrooms with living plants, as interacting with indoor plants helps reduce stress and anxiety. “Indoor plants are miniature, practical examples of our colossal forest biomes,” Aronian says. “Just as we can take a stress-reducing meditative forest bath outdoors, we can similarly enjoy the relaxing process of pruning, arranging, smelling, and admiring our indoor blooms.”

Just looking at added greenery can be calming. “Studies show that the visual stimulation of looking at live plants is relaxing, has positive mental benefits, and can reduce stress,” Torres Martinez adds. Working with plant species that have the benefits of aromatherapy is another great way to bring more tranquility to the classroom. Growing fragrant herbs, such as lavender, basil, or mint, can also enhance air quality, with delicate natural scents that act to calm the body and mind.

Back to school prep

As we gear up for the school year, now is a great time for educators to come up with ways to bring more plants into their classrooms in the coming school year.

“Teachers should think about how to incorporate seasonal plants into school celebrations and holidays. They can also create a calendar ahead of the school year and assign each student/family their special week to bring in a live plant or bouquet with related information to share,” Aronian suggests. “This process of choosing and presenting a living ornament to the class ecology can become a favorite ritual for both the students and their community.”

4 Biggest Summer Wedding Flower Trends of 2024

Summer wedding plans are back on, and peak flower growing season offers a wide variety of options for beautifying your long-awaited event. This season’s floral trends run the gamut, from bright and colorful midcentury modern bouquets to muted dried floral inclusions. So, which style is best for your summer wedding?

Lynn Mehl, founder of Good Old Days Eco-Florist in New Windsor, New York, has been creating wedding floral arrangements since 1977. She says the big trend she sees this summer is couples wanting to showcase their individuality. “Brides today are shying away from mainstream ideas or items. Instead, they are searching out one-of-a-kind, fresh items of quality, items with interest, and unusual vintage items, even if they cost more,” Mehl says. “Their ultimate goal is to be unique and make their wedding stand apart.”

Here are Mehl’s four top tips for incorporating the hottest 2024 trends into your summer wedding flowers and making them your own.

1. Large freeform botanical displays

A photo of summer wedding flowers with a large botanical archway

A popular trend this year is to create freeform floral décor and bouquets made from lush greens and botanicals. “Instead of the traditional ‘80% flowers and 20% accents,’ it is popular now to have the reverse — arrangements that are 80% greenery and organic components accented with a few flowers,” Mehl observes. This “overgrown” style is hugely popular for both bouquets and other decorations.

The best way to achieve this look? “Start with an overabundance of greenery, then add moss and twigs, and, finally, accent with wildflowers, blooms, and dried flowers,” Mehl instructs. Once you have your “green” base, layer in a few colorful blooms for contrast to draw the eye.

Bonus tip: “Eucalyptus is always a favorite, not just for its scent but for the color, drape, and movement it gives. Ferns are also extremely popular and can be displayed in pots you can take home after the event and replant.” Both provide great texture to the backdrop of the day.

2. Midcentury modern

A photo of summer wedding flowers with a midcentury modern arrangement

After two years of being inside, it is no wonder that bright colors associated with playfulness are back in style. “From bouquets to centerpieces, midcentury modern decor is back,” Mehl notes. “This means structured and somewhat minimalistic bouquets using retro, styled designs, containers, and bright pop-art colors (think early Andy Warhol).” Where traditional wisdom previously advised wedding planners to start with a neutral pallet and add “pops of color” for dramatic effect, the opposite can help couples achieve an energetic and current look.

When it comes to flower selection in this genre, “summer is the best season to find bright, local flowers,” Mehl notes. Choosing one brilliant monochromatic shade feels sophisticated and refined, or you can opt to make a bold statement with multiple bright colors. “The lush petal structure of peonies (available from late spring through mid-summer) makes them dreamy and romantic. Dahlias are another popular summer flower that can offer rich color and texture to any bouquet.”

The containers you use to display your arrangements are another great place to add pops of color. “Search out vintage containers. These props can add a fun retro look.”

Bonus tip: “For extra bright color, consider incorporating fruits that can easily be eaten the next day or donated later,” Mehl suggests.

3. Dried flowers

A photo of summer wedding flowers with a bouquet of dried flowers

“Dried flowers are back in style with a vengeance,” Mehl notes. In contrast to the colorful midcentury modern trend, “delicate dried and preserved flowers are being sought after for their muted tones. Couples are using them in everything from bouquets to corsages by themselves, or mixing them into fresh floral designs.” Some popular choices include dried lavender, billy balls, and mums.

The best part about featuring dried flowers in a summer wedding is that you do not have to worry about them wilting. “Dried petals are perfect for scattering down the aisle or on a tabletop,” Mehl adds. Just make sure you ask for only naturally dried and colored flowers and not bleached or dyed ones, as those contain chemicals that are harmful to the environment.

Bonus tip: Don’t forget dried grasses. “The ‘bunny tails‘ and pampas plumes of the ’60s are on everyone’s list again,” Mehl notes. These fluffy pieces can add rustic charm to any setting.

4. Sentimental flowers

A photo of summer wedding flowers with sentimental flowers

The past couple of years have brought an increased focus on family, and many couples see their celebration as a chance to honor those who came before them. “Lots of couples are planning sentimental weddings with some or all of the flowers being meaningful in some way (e.g., using the Language of Flowers, recreating grandmother’s bouquet, using the state/country flowers of the couple in the centerpiece, etc.),” Mehl says. “Think of the Texas gal carrying a bouquet of yellow roses or a California bride replicating a 1930’s bouquet of her grandmother’s calla lilies.” The best part is that the sentiment does not have to dictate style. “Meaningful and sentimental flowers can be melded with any theme in a freeform design,” Mehl notes.

Bonus tip: Trying to match sentiments to the season can be tricky. Mehl’s solution? “If the flowers you want are not in season, I suggest substituting dried or paper versions of those flowers with other seasonally appropriate blooms.”

4 Best Finals Week Care Packages to Get Students

“Celebration Inspiration” is all about bringing you top-notch advice and creative ideas to make the most of life’s special moments. Finals week is stressful for students. Help set them up for success with a finals care package that includes food, sleep aids, and comforting clothes.

We commonly celebrate special occasions and accomplishments with gifts, but an unexpected delivery during times of struggle or separation can make a big difference. Care packages help recipients cope with stress by strengthening connections and making them feel cared for — as the name implies.

Anyone in a challenging situation may appreciate a gesture acknowledging their struggle. Deployed military members, people caring for sick or injured loved ones, and new parents all can use extra support. There’s another group of people that could also use a pick-me-up this time of year: students studying for finals.

Students face unique academic and social pressures, especially in the lead-up to major tests and assignment deadlines. “The weeks before finals are particularly intense,” explains Derek Young, executive director of student life at St. Mary’s College of Maryland. “Younger students are often learning to balance competing priorities for the first time without parental supervision, and juniors and seniors are facing the added pressure of upper-level projects, their job market prospects, and what their grades will mean for their future career opportunities.” This leads to finals week being incredibly demanding all around, with most students reporting end-of-semester stress and a third listing finals as the biggest stressor in their lives.

“We have a lot of resources on campus to help students who are struggling socially and academically,” Young notes, “but getting support from friends and family back home makes a big difference.”

Research supports Young’s observation, as studies show that student persistence increases with parental engagement and greater parental involvement in college correlates to higher GPAs. In other words, supporting college students from afar has tangible benefits for both their mental health and academic performance.

“Regular phone calls are a great way to stay connected,” Young says, “but sending a care package during finals week shows your student that you are thinking of them and rooting for their success.”

What kind of care package to send

Care packages often include food and other essentials. More than just fun presents, they also offer a unique opportunity to assist the students we love in tangible ways.

Young encourages parents to think about who their child is when considering what kind of care package to send. “You know your own student best,” Young observes. “You can’t go wrong when you include items that save them time, energy, and resources, and thereby allow your student to focus on their academics.”

Regular phone calls are a great way to stay connected, but sending a care package during finals week shows your student that you are thinking of them and rooting for their success.

Derek Young, executive director of student life, St. Mary’s College of Maryland

If you are putting together something yourself, tuck in homemade treats and favorite comforting household articles. Even if you are ordering from a retailer, gourmet goodies and gifts that express warmth — both literally and figuratively — should comprise effective care packages.

It’s also a good idea to include helpful items, such as academic supplies or tools for overcoming challenges. We’ve put together the following guide of the four best kinds of gifts to put in finals week care packages. With our advice, you’ll help your student alleviate stress and set them up for success.

1. Food and beverages

“Send your student their favorite comfort food and something they can share with their friends as they study together and support each other,” Young suggests.

a photo of a finals care package: pail of cookies

Treats for fun and comfort, like a bucket of cookies or tub of popcorn, can help your favorite student become the most popular member of their finals study group.

a photo of a finals care package: fruit and nuts tray

Nutritious choices, such as fruit and nuts, are also great for providing energy for studying without causing a blood sugar crash.

a photo of a finals care package: chicken pot pie meal

“Non-traditional students who have additional responsibilities to manage during finals week will benefit from meals or a gift certificate for food delivery,” Young suggests.

Adult students may also appreciate a reward they can look forward to after exams, such as a gift certificate for a relaxing massage or a celebratory bottle of wine. Even something simple, such as bath bombs, can help students recover from finals week stress.

2. Sleep support

Poor sleep hygiene is an ongoing issue for college students, and the added pressure around finals results in many all-nighters. Unfortunately, even relatively minor sleep deprivation can lead to cognitive impairment. “Good sleep helps students retain material and focus during exams, but this may be particularly difficult to achieve during finals week,” Young notes. You can help your student fall asleep quickly and stay asleep longer with a eucalyptus gift set, which features a weighted blanket, room-darkening sleep mask, and scented candle. A white noise machine can also help block out background sounds at all hours of the night.

3. Study tools

a photo of a student reading a book wrapped in a blanket

“Sometimes the best gifts for students are just the tools they need to easily access and manage their workload,” Young suggests. “A gift card to the campus bookstore lets them top up on pens, highlighters, and note cards.” Help your visual learner organize their time with a personalized planner or re mote learning journal. Technology upgrades that allow them to work faster or more comfortably, such as noise cancelling headphones for the library, are also good options.

4. Gifts of comfort

“Reminders of their support network can help students conquer homesickness and stay more focused during particularly stressful times,” Young notes.

While we all wish we could give our son or daughter a big ol’ hug through the phone, gifts that have a “cozy” vibe can provide the same feeling of comfort and love. If your student is living far from home and missing friends or family, you might send a photo from home while also warming them with gifts like these silly socks or a blanket.

5 Best Valentine’s Day Gifts to Give Yourself

Valentine’s Day is a time to let your loved ones know you care. But no matter your relationship status, it’s also a great opportunity to take a step back and engage in some self-love.

“Valentine’s Day is about love and devotion, and that must start with ourselves,” explains human development expert Lois Barth, author of the bestselling self-help book Courage to Sparkle. “When we start with ourselves, we take ownership of replenishing our sense of self-esteem and self-confidence.

“Self-care gives us access to our strengths and natural zest for life, and Valentine’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to tap into yourself and evaluate what allows you to feel cared for.”

What good self-care looks like depends a lot on your personality and lifestyle.

“If you’re someone who is feeling in a rut, then self-care may look like going out for dinner, or a hike, or some adventure to shake things up,” Barth explains. “If you’re a professional ‘doer,’ meaning you are in constant motion, maybe self-care looks like a long, hot bath, taking time off, or a certain gift you’ve been craving.”

In short, Valentine’s Day gifts don’t need to be physical objects, and they don’t need to come from others. Doing something fun or giving yourself something special is a great way to celebrate the occasion.

Here are five ideas for Valentine’s Day gifts to get yourself.

A satisfied stomach is a way to the heart

“It is so easy to go through our day feeling like everything is the same old, same old,” Barth says. “Specialty foods make things feel novel, and foods that evoke our senses, like fruit, wine, cheese, and chocolate, connect us with our sensuality.”

For that reason, skip the drugstore heart-shaped boxes of chocolates — what’s special about those? — and luxuriate in the warmth of heart-shaped hot cocoa bombs. Combine those with some sweet treats, such as the cookies and pretzel clusters that come in the affirming You’re Incredible Party in a Box. It’s all designed to remind you of how wonderful you are.

For oenophiles, splurge on a gourmet red or rosé wine package with cookies and pair it with some truffles or decadent chocolate. Balance out that sweet with some savory…say, charcuterie and cheese. You’ll have everything you need for an evening indulging in gourmet delights, and it can all be delivered to your door. After all: Time saved running errands is time spent pampering yourself!

valentines day gifts for yourself Breakable Chocolate Heart — Breakable Chocolate Heart

Harvest Comforts Fresh Fruit Basket — Harvest Comforts Fresh Fruit Gift Basket

A home spa experience

Pampering yourself often means a day at the spa, but since Valentine’s Day falls in the dead of winter and you may not want to venture out, why not turn your bathroom into the spa of your dreams? Barth, who was a massage therapist for years before becoming a life and business coach, recommends including spa elements with soothing scents.

“When we are stressed out, our fight-or-flight response is in the driver’s seat,” she notes. “Botanical scents like lavender and chamomile can help move us from surviving mode into thriving mode. They calm the nervous system and allow us to slow down and connect with our sensuality and wellbeing.”

You can create a luxurious and cozy evening at home with this Luxurious Lavender Chamomile Spa Gift Basket. Soothe your muscles and calm your mind with everything from bubble bath to skin-repairing body butter and fizzy bath bombs to an aromatherapy candle. Better yet, every item in this basket is all-natural and paraben-free. Lounge after your treatment in the included spa slippers, and top off your gift to yourself with a Comfort Luxury Fleece Robe.

Lavender Deluxe Bath & Body Gift Set — Luxurious Lavender Chamomile Spa Gift Basket

valentines day gifts for yourself Spa Sampler Aromatherapy Gift — Aromatherapy Kit

Happy Day Fizzers Bath Bombs — Happy Day Fizzers Bath Bomb

The gift of green

Self-care gives us access to our strengths and natural zest for life, and Valentine’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to tap into yourself and evaluate what allows you to feel cared for.

– Lois Barth, Human development expert and author of Courage to Sparkle

The average American spends 93% of his or her time indoors. The benefits of being outside are well documented, though. In February, “nature bathing” may be less appealing, so why not bring the benefits of nature inside?

“Live plants both oxygenate the room and remind us of our connection to nature,” Barth says. “Being of service to a plant also takes us outside of ourselves and helps break the stress cycle.”

This Sweet Heart Bamboo is perfect for your desk and will remind you that you are loved every day. Transferring a potted plant to a garden of love planter, customized with the names of your loved ones (or you!), is another great way to visually weave together things that nourish your body and soul.

valentines day gifts for yourself Sweet Heart Bamboo — Sweet Heart Bamboo

valentines day gifts for yourself Hoya Heart Succulents — Hoya Hearts Succulents

Movie night with big-screen theater vibes

“Entertainment, such as movies and music, is such an important part of revitalizing our lives,” Barth says. “It evokes our imagination and puts us in a world of wonder.” Instead of heading to the theater, spend a movie night at home re-watching one of your favorites. You turn it into a special event with the Movie Night Gift Box, which includes gummy candies, Skittles, Mike and Ike, and, of course, delicious caramel, cheese, and butter popcorn.

“Adding special treats to the mix is a great way to make a mundane night magical and connect us to our younger selves,” Barth says. “Inviting friends over to share in the fun can also be a powerful de-stressor.”

valentines day gifts for yourself Valentines Day Cookie Pail — Valentine’s Day Cookie Pail

valentines day gifts for yourself Candy Craves Sweet Treats Gift Box — Candy Craves Sweet Treats Gift Box

Sparkle and shine

“Jewelry is a traditional Valentine’s Day gift for a reason,” Barth says. “It reminds us of the importance of shining bright and allowing ourselves to be radiant in the world. If you get into a rut, just putting on a nice piece of jewelry that you bought yourself can make your day feel novel and special.”

This Queen Choker necklace is one way of showing the world that you value yourself. Featuring petal-shaped crystal drops set in sterling silver and alternating round crystal drops, it’s a simple yet refined accessory that goes with everything in your closet.

At the end of the day, remember: “Whether you are single or married to the love of your life, your most important relationship is always going to be with yourself,” Barth says. “The more you can nurture that relationship and rejuvenate that relationship, the better you will feel and the more you will energize the relationships around you.”