the painted primrose

flower shop stories - a proposal

2012-01-21T14:38:00.000-08:00

today i met with a bride and groom. lovely couple. when i asked the groom if he wanted to wear a boutonniere on his wedding day, he answered "i want what she wants." wow. off to a great start. i then asked him about the proposal. he proposed high above the earth, in a hot air balloon. i asked if he bent down on one knee inside the bucket. nope. too afraid to drop the ring, as he had heard of a couple who did just that and dropped the ring overboard. good lord, talk about needle in a haystack. i once flushed an engagement ring down the toilet. no other comment about that. yeah for lovely couples.

a friend's wedding

2011-10-10T07:07:00.001-07:00

I love designing weddings for friends. But the hard part is that once you cherry pick the flowers, process them, design them and deliver them, you have to frantically rush home, walk the dog, make a p.b&j., shower and get dolled up. Oh, and inbetween all of that you actually have to buy a dress, shoes and stockings. the good lord knows you have nothing but jeans and combat boots in the closet!!!

so no, i have not a single pic of the wedding flowers. but, i did snap a quick shot of myself in the bathroom mirror. how vain!!!! ah well.

Tiffany and Doug Get Hitched

2011-10-06T07:53:00.001-07:00

It was truly an honor to design the flowers for Tiffany and Doug's autumn wedding. They could have been married anywhere in the entire world. They could have chosen any florist on the universe. But they chose Boulder and they chose me. Yeah!

Tiffany and Doug met in Malibu. They were neighbors. Tiffany said she never met a nicer, kinder man. I love that. I never met a nicer, kinder bride. She was lovely.

Best wishes to you both. Thank you.

season and jake got hitched.

2011-09-11T06:52:00.000-07:00

yesterday i received a link to this lovely blog. i am glowing. going to make a copy, fold it up really tiny and wear it around my neck like a scapular. many humble thanks Season.

http://acoloradocourtship.blogspot.com/2011/09/our-wedding-flowers.html

Amanda and Chris Got Hitched!

2011-05-21T18:49:00.001-07:00

Our very first wedding of the season, roses and peonies, ooh, lala! The ceremony and reception both took place at Longmont's Lone Hawk Farm. We decorated the wooden gazebo with the last of the season's cherry blossoms. We hung wire bird cages, filled with flowers and hanging foliage from the surrounding trees. Tables were adorned with antique ball jars spilling with wide opening peonies and silvery dusty miller. Shamane baked the fab cupcakes. A lovely day indeed.

Midsummer's Night Eve Wedding

2011-05-20T05:29:00.000-07:00

If you know me, you know I love everything fairy. Little fairy garden accoutrements, fairy dust, iron fairies, miniature fairy watering cans, oh the list goes on... Yesterday, I happened across this blog highlighting a magical fairy forest wedding. Heavy sigh. You simply must view the entire post at http://www.fancyhouseroad.com/tag/weddings/
Can you imagine a flower girl tossing petals from her twiggy moss covered basket and unexpectedly tossing out a silk butterfly or two to scatter her patch? I love, love, love it. hugs, Sarah

my lovely boy.

2011-05-17T05:58:00.000-07:00

This is my son. He graduates within days. I am ambivilent. Although I am utterly excited for him to spread his wings and fly off to college, I will selfishly miss him so. He is kind, loving and respectful. He has always had a keen sense of business and understands the value of a dollar. He is a fashionista, brave and confident. Congratulations dear son. Job well done. A slight push out of the nest. Look out world - here comes one good egg. Hugs. Mom.

a new rose for kate

2011-04-13T17:32:00.001-07:00

Introducing the new rose by David Austin rose growers "Kate". Raspberry pink. I love them. Betcha see oodles of them in 2012.

a party for a princess, a lucky one at that.

2011-03-20T09:52:00.000-07:00

oh my, i have been so busy designing for this weekend's princess party. it was honestly a party fit for a king, complete with a castle, suits of armor, glass slippers, and an abundance of tiaras. (if i had the guts to take on a tattoo, it would be a tiara, a grand one at that.) it was lovely fun. my favorite wedding and event planner, nicole mulvany from rsvp shindig called me up on this one. when nicole calls, expect grand.

the house was bedecked inside and out. uplit outside with pink lights. never too much pink. i decorated the front door with floral tiaras, the tables with 6" squares of heavenly eufloria roses, cabbage, hydrangea and lisianthus, topped off with what else, tiaras. i even decorated the glass slippers with flowers. yum.

dave barnes from scenographics denver created the incredible fairytale castle, royal pendants, and the suits of armour complete with pink plumage.

food was provided by the fabulous whirled peas catering co. they also sculpted a castle made from bread, baquettes and waffle cones. (which the family dog guarded with her life.)

it truly was a masterpiece of a party.

Painted Primrose featured in Colorado wedding blog

2011-02-10T08:58:00.001-08:00

I love reading wedding blogs, so much inspiration and beauty. I love being featured in a wedding blog even better. Thanks ladies!
http://coloradoweddingstyle.com/2011/01/boulder-wedding-stylish-bride/
photo courtesy ashley davis photography

Boulder Wedding Showcase

2011-02-07T05:45:00.000-08:00

I love attending bridal shows. It's a wonderful way to meet oodles of brides, all at the same time, all at the same location. I also like seeing all the local wedding vendors under one roof. This shot is of my entry into the fantasy table decorating contest at Rembrandt Yard. You can check out more photos at http://www.rembrandtyard.com/painted.html. Thanks Rembrandt Yard ladies for an amazing show. Wedding season has begun!

peonies in december!!

2010-12-11T06:41:00.000-08:00

I have gorgeous peonies in the shop this week. Direct from Holland. They are perfectly priced as well. I think you need some!!!!

Harry Potter Deathly Hallows Party with Draco Malfoy

2010-11-16T05:50:00.001-08:00

This Sunday is the Harry Potter party in Boulder with Draco Malfoy! I am sooo excited. I will be designing several floral arrangements. I promise to take pics. Shamane of Shamane's Bake Shoppe will be designing a Harry Potter themed cake. How exciting! There are tickets still available for Sunday night's event. The pre-screening of the movie for Thursday is sold out. Buy your tickets at There with Care.

Shannon's Big Fab Italian Wedding

2010-11-02T09:17:00.000-07:00

Shannon is one of my favorite brides to date. Truly lovely inside and out. I created her dream bouquet out of hot pink and light pink garden roses. Lots of roses, as there were lots of bridesmaids and lots of centerpieces. Cake by my fav pastry chef Shamane of Shamane's bake shoppe. Location: The Omni Interlocken. Best wishes to you Shannon, may all your days be filled with roses!

real weddings marcee and michael

2010-10-19T12:27:00.000-07:00

A

A perfect wedding day at Boulder's Flagstaff Amphitheater and the Omni Interlocken. Marcee was a wonderful bride who loved everything ultra feminine and romantic. Right up my alley. Eufloria roses and mango calla lilies. Fab photos by www.annejamesphotography.com

autumnal wedding

2010-10-02T06:08:00.001-07:00

I love fall. It enters my world overnight. One morning I wake up and its a balmy 80 degrees,the next, a frigid 50. I see changes at the flower market as well. Bright, bold summery colors have been replaced by burgundy, burnt orange and umber. Bittersweet has arrived from the east coast and luscious hydrangeas from the west. I also see big changes in wedding color schemes. Gone are the sunflowers, bright orange zinnias and hot pink celosia. I welcome the locally grown dahlias, leucadendron and orange ranunculus. Change is good, bring it on.

Colorado Mountain Wedding

2010-09-10T05:39:00.000-07:00

I loved designing the flowers for this fun and spunky bride. She chose a wildflower theme with locally grown flowers and a touch of whimsy. There were spots of hot pink everywhere and who doesn't love hot pink? Rachel Hagen of Talia Events was the wedding planner, Marilee Photography shot the pics. Shamane of Shamane's Bake shoppe designed the cake. Flowers - yeah, me! What a great team!

Labor Day Weekend Weddings

2010-09-06T06:32:00.001-07:00

Just a word to the wise, three of the busiest wedding weekends are Memorial Day, 4th of July and Labor Day. If you are planning a wedding on any of those three day weekends, book early. Once again, book all of your vendors early! My favorite Denver florist, yes I have favs too, was so busy with weddings, that they designed one of their weddings at the the flower market and rented space in their enormous cooler. My Labor day was slammin'. Here is a sneak peak of Sarah and Jason's wedding at the Millenium Harvest House Boulder. Loved here hair piece with the chic netting.

Flagstaff House Restaurant Wedding

2010-08-31T06:08:00.000-07:00

I have delivered several weddings, this summer, to the Flagstaff House restaurant on Flagstaff Mountain. Though the view is spectacular, the food and service are incredible. The ceremonies take place on the outdoor patio overlooking a million dollar view of Boulder. It is simply stunning! www.flagstaffhouse.com

How sweet are the sweet peas!

2010-08-16T10:13:00.001-07:00

O.K, so it's not sweet pea season and my wholesale rep hates when I order flowers out of season. But they are soooooo pretty and smell fabulous. This ultra modern arrangement was designed for a wedding reception at Boulder's famous Frasca restaurant on Pearl Street. I think it turned out so cool. Kinda like the bride who ordered it!

Real Weddings Sarah and Sunny

2010-08-02T06:29:00.000-07:00

This weekend's wedding took place in Longmont, CO at a flower farm. And it was filled with antiques and shabby, peely paint furniture. Under the reception tent there even hung an amazing crystal chandelier. I loved it!! Sarah, the bride, (what a wonderful name) was in love with bright, hot colors. Thus, her flaming bouquet!
www.bigbangcatering.com/pastures_plenty.htm

Real Weddings Whitney and Drew

2010-07-18T07:28:00.001-07:00

A beautiful Saturday afternoon at the park, complete with a touch of cloud cover and a slight breeze. That's exactly what Whitney wished for and exactly what she received. Whitney and Drew's out of doors wedding took place at the "Oval" on the CSU campus in Fort Collins, Colorado. Every detail was beautifully planned by both Whitney and her Mom, a very talented interior decorator. The color palate was a hot pink, pewter grey and black. So hot! The entire wedding theme was planned around a confetti cake found in Martha Stewart Weddings mag. Professional pics to come later. Thanks for reading! Enjoy.

Real Weddings Meghan and Tim

2010-06-26T16:19:00.000-07:00

This weekend's wedding belonged to Meghan and Tim. The bride loved orange, white and lime green. In her bouquet, I used white Dutch peonies, orange dahlias, mini green hydrangea and ornamental kale. One word for the color scheme, fresh! The wedding took place beside a pond complete with wandering geese. The ring bearer wore a mini orange gerbera daisy boutonniere and bright orange Crocs. Those pictures to follow...Best wishes to the both of you!

Rocky Mountain Bride Magazine

2010-06-21T09:59:00.001-07:00

I am published! And I didn't even know it. Last summer my flowers were featured in Rocky Mountain Bride magazine. Lisa, was one of my favorite brides. I use her photos on my print material, everywhere that I can. Yeah! So exciting.

Real Weddings Tammy & Matt

2010-06-20T10:51:00.001-07:00

Yesterday's wedding took place at Boulder's Red Lion Restaurant, located just a short drive up the Boulder canyon. The bride chose a soft palette of ivory and green roses, white ranunculus and white tulips, with a modern wrap of aspidistra leaves. Shamane of Shamane's Bake Shoppe created the gorgeous cake with a cascade of flowers and fruit. Summer wedding ceremonies at the Red Lion, take place alongside the bubbling Boulder Creek. Brides have the option of renting the beautiful aspen arch from The Red Lion, and I have the pleasure of decorating it. Congratulations Tammy and Matt!

Peonies and Roses

2010-06-13T08:21:00.001-07:00

Yesterday's wedding at The Greenbriar Inn was filled with an abundance of peonies. Until I receive the professional pics, this one will have to suffice. "Sweet Avalanche" Eufloria roses and medium pink luscious peonies made the wedding soft, sweet and romantic.

Real Weddings Cynthia & David

2010-06-05T09:26:00.001-07:00

Cynthia planned her Zen wedding at Peaceful Valley Ranch. Emphasis on the peaceful part. Her mantra "whatever happens, happens." When we toured the ranch last, there was 14" of snow on the ground. That was a mere three weeks ago. Today, a beautiful, peaceful day in the 80's. Cynthia chose tropical orchids to match her zen theme. They are striking, yet pure and elegant. Best wishes to you Cynthia & David.

Denver Botanic Gardens

2010-06-01T10:01:00.000-07:00

So tell me, what do you think a florist does on his/her day off? Well, this florist visits the Denver Botanic Garden. The experience rejuvenates my soul! Yesterday was a beautiful day at the gardens. The peonies were blooming! Peonies-my most favorite flower in the entire world. It was truly a scratch n sniff experience with the lilac and iris in full bloom. I love their gift shop! Their buyer has the most exquisite taste. I had a bit of a picnic in the japanese garden. Me and my pb&j. I am blessed!
www.denverbotanicgardens.org

Peonies and Love

2010-05-30T16:28:00.000-07:00

It's peony season! Finally. This bouquet is from yesterday's mountain wedding. I love this variety of white with hot pink centers. The fragrance is heavenly. Does anyone know where I can order peony cologne? That way I can have peonies all year long.

Susan Pacek Photography

2010-05-05T07:09:00.000-07:00

I just had to post this photo of last weekend's wedding bouquet. It is so sexy!! Wow, thank you once again to Susan Pacek, an amazing photographer. I designed this using blue-white hydrangea, white ranunculus, Vandella roses and blue delphinium.

Real Weddings Amber & Mike

2010-05-04T16:48:00.000-07:00

I can't picture a more amazing way to kick off this year's wedding season than with Amber and Mike's wedding. I love couple's like this. Happy, happy, happy. The entire day went off without a hitch. The photographer provided these stunning pics. It was the first time I worked with Susan. She was top notch. Check out the rest of the wedding photos on her blog at www.susanpacekphotographyblog.comThe wedding took place at the flawless Rembrandt Yard. Also my first time working with Catering by Design. Seriously, they whistled and sang while they worked. You know it was a great time when the Mom of the bride visits me the day after and presents me with a great big hug! :) So love my job!

Wedding Cake Trends 2010

2010-04-29T08:25:00.000-07:00

This is a quick pic from last week's wedding. Yum. I have noticed a popular trend this summer. I do like it. The cake is the focal point, and the flowers are secondary. Thank goodness we are moving away from the trend of having a major cascade of flowers flowing down the cake. Never cared for that. I wouldn't want to eat the piece that is poked a million times with rose stems. Yuck! This look is soft and elegant. Let the cake speak for itself. Better yet, let the taste of the cake speak for itself. Wedding cake by Indulge Bakery.

Rose Petals at the St. Julien Hotel & Spa

2010-04-26T21:32:00.000-07:00

So this weekend's bride and groom were spending their honeymoon night at Boulder's St. Julien Hotel & Spa. Their parents hired me to toss petals on their bed in the honeymoon suite. It was lovely. I shaped a big yellow heart on their bed, and surrounded the bathtub with yellow petals. The hotel's concierge called it the "Rose Petal Turndown." I call it "The Rose Petal Turn on." Just sayin'

Sneak Peak Today's Wedding

2010-04-25T08:24:00.000-07:00

Here's to the first wedding of the 2010 season! A lovely bouquet of blue white hydrangea, Vandella roses, Eufloria green roses, white ranunculus and blue delphinium. What a way to start!

Painted Primrose Weddings

2010-04-24T06:54:00.000-07:00

The Painted Primrose still has wedding dates available for the end of July, August, September and October. From April - mid July we are completely booked. We are also booking into 2011. As always, we design only two weddings per weekend. We believe in offering outstanding customer service to each and every one of our brides, and fill our bouquets with lots of love! Call us early. 720-280-8409.
photo of our bride courtesy of christina kiffney photography

Real Wedding Robert & Oriana

2010-04-21T06:08:00.000-07:00

The petite beauty and the football player, so in love. Oriana loved orchids, dahlias and gerbera daisies. Her bouquet was was deep burgundies and light pink. I thought it quite exquisite. Their wedding took place at Brookside Gardens in Berthoud, Co. A relatively new wedding site. Beautiful and tastefully decorated.

Real Weddings Becky & Nate

2010-04-11T16:38:00.000-07:00

I couldn't wait to get pics from Becky and Nate's recent wedding at the Hotel Boulderado. They are an amazing couple. Mathematicians! They actually got married on pie day as that is their favorite equation. Cool! I loved the bride's color scheme. I used green cymbidium orchids, Eufloria Black Baccara roses and Mango calla lilies. Photo courtesy of Kirk Speer.

Polar Star Roses for the Sorority

2010-04-09T09:56:00.000-07:00

Oodles of white Polar Star roses from California for the sorority girls at University of Colorado, Boulder. They opened perfectly, as always! Can't wait to deliver them. I know there will be "ooohhs and aaahhhs!"

Sandra Bullock Bouquet

2010-04-07T08:59:00.001-07:00

So, according to www.tmz.com, this bouquet of flowers was recently delivered to Sandra Bullock. I think it rather symbolic that there are white roses in the bouquet... a white rose suggest purity and and silence. Also, white has always expressed qualities beyond the physical-love beyond the body, love of the soul. In Asian tradition, white stands for the ultimate absence, death. Hhmmm, no further comment.

Peony in Love

2010-04-05T06:19:00.000-07:00

I love to read, and "Peony in Love" by Lisa See founds its way into my Easter basket yesterday. I can hardly wait to begin this exciting new journey into 14th century China. I'm certain it will be filled with stories of love, hardship, tradition and sisterhood. The first chapter, "In the Garden" is calling me. As a florist, how can I resist a book that begins with gardens and peonies. There is nothing better. Not even chocolate Easter bunnies. Well, my best friend Lynne might argue that point.

BTW, peony season is only one month away!

Easy Easter Centerpiece - Peep, Peep

2010-04-01T06:04:00.001-07:00

I love this Easter centerpiece. It's so easy to make. I really believe that no Easter tablescape is complete without flowers. Find instructions at http://mixmingleglow.com/blog/

Professional Wedding Gown Alterations

2010-03-27T08:18:00.000-07:00

I would like to welcome Patty Elliott's Fine Tailoring and Alterations as my new neighbor here at Wilderness Place! This is really turning into wedding central, with Shamane's Bake Shoppe, The Painted Primrose and now a wedding gown alteration expert. I love it. Brides, how convenient for you.

Please visit Patty's website which lists her years of credentials, phone number, address and all that important information. Patty really knows dresses!
www.pattyelliottsplace.com www.shamanesbakeshoppe.com www.paintedprimrose.com

photo courtesy www.buy-wedding-dress.com

The Million Dollar Shot

2010-03-21T08:13:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had a long conversation with a bride regarding photographers. My favorite photographers are those who pay attention to the detail shots. The little things, tender moment things. This photo is one of my very favorite. Wow. Did he capture the million dollar shot or what? Sit with your photographer and make a list of the shots you want. Don't go just for the posed portraits. How boring is that? Have him/her shoot details of your dress, your hair, your shoes, the appetizers, the wine. And please take shots of your bouquet! Don't forget that your photographer is an artist. Do let them create art!

Pastry Chef Shamane @ Shamane's Bake Shoppe

2010-03-18T09:07:00.000-07:00

So, imagine this. I wake up last week only to find my new hubby eating our frozen wedding cake topper for breakfast. No, seriously. He actually thawed out the layer that we were supposed to eat for our one year anniversary! He said he couldn't wait another day. OMG! Our cake was created by Shamane of Shamane's Bake Shoppe. Now that's a compliment! Photo by Christina Kiffney Photography

Stunning Photos by Christina Kiffney Photography

2010-03-11T16:37:00.001-08:00

There are so many wonderful photographers in Boulder. I am very lucky. After my weddings are done and over, I patiently wait for photos of my floral designs. I just received these from Christina Kiffney Photography. I am stunned! Do book her to photograph your wedding!!! www.christinakiffneyphotography.com

It's snowing, huge flakes, thinking spring..

2010-03-10T15:09:00.000-08:00

Seriously? More snow here in Boulder. Ugh! Yes, as I write, it is snowing huge, fluffy flakes. Hard to think summer with conditions such as this! So I perused through wedding flower pics from last year. I came upon this yummy mix of roses and helebores. Soft, romantic. My dream bouquet. Well, it was my wedding bouquet and it was dreamy!

Yes, the ring bearer wears a bout.

2010-03-07T08:43:00.001-08:00

Yesterday, during a bridal consultations, I was asked if the ring bearer needs to wear a boutonniere. Yes! Especially if he is donning a tuxedo. I love seeing the ring bearer smile as I pin a boutonniere on him that matches the big guys. This boutonniere is made of lavender freesia. Freesia has a lovely sweet scent and holds up nicely. Photo by Joanna Pinneo.

A Lavender Wedding

2010-02-18T11:14:00.000-08:00

Thank you to photographer Joanna B. Pinneo for this lovely pic. I designed this bouquet for a winter wedding held at the Rembrandt Yard last November. The entire decor was crisp and sparkly just like the weather.
www.joannabpinneo.com
www.rembrandtyard.com

Happy Valentine's Day to Everyone.

2010-02-15T18:30:00.003-08:00

Today is February 15th. A single day post Valentine's Day. Love was certainly in the air yesterday. Young love, new love and even mature love, we saw it all. It warms my heart. The traditional dozen red roses were popular as well as balloons, chocolate and teddy bears. What a great holiday all in the name of love.

Wedding Flower Trends 2010

2010-02-01T14:18:00.001-08:00

Just a few pics from the Painted Primrose table at the Boulder Wedding Showcase held at Rembrandt Yard. I really had a lovely time meeting newly engaged brides, moms, sisters, friends and even a few husbands-to-be. Call to book your appointment and let's chat! 720-280-8409.

Winter White Wedding in Denver Colorado

2010-01-31T15:49:00.000-08:00

Just a quick pick from yesterday's wedding at the beautiful Valley Country Club in south Denver. Wedding colors were white on white and icy blue. Perfect for a winter wedding. The garden roses were grown in California and smelled heavenly. Loved working with Nicole Mulvany from RSVP Shindig.

The Painted Primrose is Featured in The Knot!

2010-01-26T05:53:00.000-08:00

Last summer I designed over 25 flower arrangements for a party sponsored by the Knot. It was located in Denver at the hip and chic Theorie. I worked with my favorite Denver wedding planner Nicole Mulvany from RSVP Shindig. It was a blast. The Knot has featured the party in their current Colorado issue. Enjoy!

Bridal Bouquets, White on White

2010-01-22T06:22:00.000-08:00

One of my very favorite color schemes is white on white. You see, its because the colors are not really just plain white on plain white. There are so many different shades of white, oyster, silk, ivory, champagne... the list goes on forever. I am always a bit amused when I hear a new name for white from the wedding gown designers. They are always so dreamy. So today, let's hear it for white. http://www.designspongeonline.com/2010/01/we-like-it-wild-ranunculus

How Not to Carry a Wedding Bouquet.

2010-01-19T06:26:00.000-08:00

I always try to coach a bride and her bridesmaids on the proper way to carry a bouquet, and this photo is an example of how not to. So often I spot pictures of a bride walking down the aisle with her right arm tucked into the crook of her father's arm and her left arm pointing toward North Carolina. (I live in Colorado, so the Carolinas are east, way east.) I am sure there are exceptions to the rule, but I always tell a bride to rest her bouquet in her two hands. It isn't necessary to hold it like a microphone. If you keep you thumb close to your belly button you are right on. Once I even saw a bride hold the bouquet with her right arm, the same arm that was holding on to her father. Ugh! Simple trick that makes for gorgeous photos.

Tropical Orchid Wedding Bouquets

2010-01-08T06:29:00.000-08:00

More celadon and purple! I love it. Found this inspiring bouquet on a website in Vermont. (Thanks Kristen for the tip.) I am seeing many more brides requesting tropicals this year! Cymbidium orchids and phalaenopsis orchids. Although tropicals are a bit more pricey than typical flowers you will benefit from the "less is more" concept, meaning, you don't need to have as many flowers in your bouquet, so you might have a gorgeously dramatic bouquet for less money. I love the brown satin ribbon with colored pearl pins as well. Lovely contrast.
www.valleyflowercompany.blogspot.com

The Drama of Schwarzwalder Calla Lilies

2010-01-01T11:31:00.001-08:00

January 1, 2010! Hail the New Year. The red, white and green of Christmas flowers are behind me now, as its time to explore new color schemes for my 2010 brides. I have several favorite florists that continue to inspire me. One of them is the Hidden Garden Florist of Beverly Hills, California. Love her website. This pic, in particular really stood out. I love the splash of the tropical orchids and beautiful line of the Schwarzwalder calla lilies. I wonder how these callas came to be called "black forest." I can only imagine that they reminded someone of the dense, dark forests of Germany. Intriqing, dramatic...
www.hiddengardenflowers.com

Happy New Year 2010!

2009-12-31T08:28:00.001-08:00

So believe it or not, I am sick in bed with the flu! And, it's my birthday! Personally, I think its a great way to end 2009. It has given me time, actually hours and hours, to reflect on the past year. It has been a great year indeed. I have been blessed with weddings galore. Wedding flowers! Sigh. I love romance. As 2009 nears its end, I can't help but be very optimistic for 2010. My resolution, to always have fresh flowers in my home. How simple is that! My very best painted primrose wishes for great health, great happiness and beauty. Sarah

photo of a paris flower market found at http://blog.parisambiance.com

Boulder Wedding Showcase

2009-12-28T11:55:00.001-08:00

Congratulations to all the newly engaged brides of 2010! As you might know, 23% off all marriage proposals happen during the holidays! If you are a Colorado bride, you won't want to miss the Boulder Wedding Showcase January 31, 2010 hosted at Boulder Theater & Rembrandt Yard. The Painted Primrose will be showcasing our fab flowers at The Rembrandt Yard. Please stop by as we would love to meet you. For further info visit www.boulderweddingshowcase.com

Christmas Tablescape

2009-12-27T14:33:00.000-08:00

Just a quick pic to show you my tablescape. Favorites of mine... red roses, black bears, pine cones and lots of candles. Perfect for a Rocky Mountain Christmas Eve.
After designing and delivering Christmas floral arrangements for four weeks, I simply did not have the energy to create elaborate centerpieces for myself. But nothing makes me happier than roses, simple wide open roses. Roses too open to sell and roses to stunning to toss! The pine cone candelabras were a wedding gift to us and the pine cone table runner was purchased 50% off at Kohls. I love that store!

Merry Christmas from The Painted Primrose

2009-12-24T07:11:00.001-08:00

Christmas at The Painted Primrose starts the moment the last Thanksgiving plate makes its way into the dishwasher. For four weeks we have been delivering, literally over the river and through the woods, beautiful bouquets of holiday greens, pine cones and roses from Flagstaff Mountain to the plains of Firestone and Frederick. I love every minute of it. I also love anything and everything to do with candy canes. You will often find one tucked into one of my holiday floral arrangements. Perhaps it reminds me of my childhood visits with Santa at Marshal Fields. One in which I always walked away with a mini cane tucked into my pocket. My work at the studio is finished and now its time for my family. Time to bake cookies, light balsam scented candles and watch favorite holiday movies. Time for peace. And time for love. Much love to all of you.

Boulder's Parade of Holiday Lights and Rembrandt Yard

2009-12-07T09:01:00.000-08:00

Just designed a lovely winter wedding at Boulder's Rembrandt Yard. The ingenious bride planned her wedding the same night as Boulder's Holiday Lights Parade. How smart is that, since the Rembrandt Yard is on the parade route. Imagine your wedding guests watching the parade from the third story windows. Now that gives me total and complete goosebumps. So brides, this is your chance. If you are planning a December wedding in Boulder, find out when next year's Holiday Lights Parade takes place, and run to Rembrandt Yard to book your wedding. It will be a night no one will forget.www.rembrandtyard.com

Winter Weddings in Colorado

2009-12-04T11:45:00.000-08:00

Here is a sneak preview of tomorrow's winter wedding. White on white, my favorite color! White amaryllis, paperwhites, Vandella roses, white and cream lisianthus, seeded eucalyptus and I will bundle it all with a very special ribbon.

Since When Does the Florist Make the Rules?

2009-11-29T10:26:00.000-08:00

So yesterday, I met with a newly engaged bride-to-be. She says to me "I am wearing a formal wedding gown with a short train and lots of beading, do I need a cascading bouquet?" "Not unless you're Princess Diana." I answered. It appears that another florist told her that she HAD to have a cascading bouquet, a hand-tied would just not do! Seriously? In this day and age when a canine can be your flower girl and the best man can actually be your best woman. I can't even think of one wedding rule. O.k. maybe one...you can't marry a relative. So brides, if a florist tells you something out of left field, recruit another florist. If a florist thinks your ideas are questionable, call me. At The Painted Primrose we don't make rules. If you have your heart set on a bouquet of orange and blue Bronco's colors, our job is to not judge, but to make it beautiful! After all, this is your day, not mine! (AP photo)

Holiday Marriage Proposals

2009-11-28T06:28:00.001-08:00

Did you know that 26% of all marriage proposals happen during the months of November and December? I must admit, that I fit into that statistic. Last New Year's Eve, my newly betrothed proposed to me. Come to think of it, my first husband, back in 1986, proposed to me on New Year's Eve as well. Hhhmm. I honestly believe there is something very magical about that night. (It also happens to be my birthday.) So best wishes to all of you single ladies hoping to hear those four beautiful words....After he does, and you say yes, wipe your tears and book your venue, than call your florist!
This photo is of Lone Hawk Farm in Longmont, CO.

An Autumn Wedding at The Hotel Boulderado

2009-11-23T14:21:00.000-08:00

Enjoy these new pictures from a recent wedding that I designed at Boulder's Hotel Boulderado. Yet, another fabulous bride and groom. I am so lucky. Credit for the pictures go to Julie McGehan Photography @ www.juliemcgehan.com The cake is by Shamane @ www.shamanesbakeshoppe.com The bridal bouquet is made from white calla lilies and nandina foliage. The large floral urn is accented with locally grown burgundy dahlias, velvety as can be!

Over the River and Through the Woods

2009-11-19T13:13:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is a week from today. One of my very favorite holidays! I love designing Thanksgiving centerpieces. Call me to design yours! My utmost favorite is adding taper candles in autumnal hues. As part of our "Stemulus" package, I am offering free local delivery from now until December 31, 2009. New to The Painted Primrose is our fabulous wire service. I can now wire flowers anywhere in the world. Yes! 1-888-280-8849 Call me!

Here's to 50 years!

2009-11-16T15:47:00.001-08:00

Today, I posted an entry on craigslist offering 20 free yellow roses to the first person who showed up at my shop. You see, sometimes I have a few flowers left over from an event, too open to sell, to beautiful to toss. A kind gentlemen was the first to show up, dressed in jeans, boots, flannel shirt, cap and a Carhartt vest. A real rancher. He said he was celebrating his 50th anniversary with his wife. They met in high school. He 20, she 19. He said he loves her as much as he did when they married. I guess that would be in 1959. As I wrapped the flowers for him, he took off his hat and shook my hand. "Thank you ma'am," he said, "you're so kind."

Wow! 50 years! What an inspiration.

Well, I have a new husband. He's the bomb! He's kind, loving, understanding, accepting, gentle, (quite handsome) and a great friend. In 50 years we will be really old, but what the heck... here's to our 50!

The Jordan Almond Wedding Tradition, Italian Style

2009-11-07T10:16:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to show the lovely little nests filled with five robin's egg blue almonds that I placed on the tables at my wedding reception. Little did I know that Jordan almonds are actually an Italian tradition. Sure, I saw lots of Jordan almonds tucked into tulle pouches at every family get together. I grew up on the South side. I figured that Jordan almonds were invited to everyone's family gathering. Hmm. Guess not.

A little fact from the Jordan almond website:

ITALIAN WEDDINGS Five almonds signify five wishes for the bride and groom: health, wealth, happiness, fertility, and longevity. These almonds decorate each place setting as favors, tucked into pretty boxes or tulle bags called *bomboniere* that are often personalized with the couple's names and wedding date.(Or in my case a sweet twiggy nest!) You can order the 3" nests from me $2.00 each. I purchased the almonds at www.ohnuts.com

Weddings at The Red Lion Restaurant, Boulder CO

2009-10-30T12:33:00.000-07:00

Just received these lovely pictures of a wedding that I designed at the Red Lion Restaurant in Boulder, CO. If you haven't visited the Red Lion, you must. It is nestled in a breathtaking canyon. The intimate location makes you feel that you are years away from Boulder, but are actually just minutes outside its city limits. Plus, you will just love Tina, the event and wedding contact. Of coarse, the food is scrumptious too. Many thanks to Susan Armitage of Armitage Photography for kindly sharing these photos with me. I just love them!

Happy Halloween from Colorado! whatever.

2009-10-29T10:27:00.000-07:00

So this is Halloween in the Rocky Mountains 2009. Ugh. I can't imagine that poor Linus will be waiting in the pumpkin patch this year. Who knows, perhaps the great pumpkin loves the white stuff. Sigh. Me and Lucy, well we prefer snickers bars.

This Weekend's Wedding Bouquet

2009-10-25T16:03:00.000-07:00

This weekend's wedding bouquet is designed with beautiful shades of white with a touch of autumn orange. I used white "Avalanche" roses, white ranunculus, white freesia and white hydrangea. The bride wanted to incorporate a touch of orange bittersweet which gave the bouquet a modern touch, asymetrical indeed. Quite fitting for this weekend as we were delighted with a touch of snow falling on our orange autumn leaves.

Wedding at The Hotel Boulderado

2009-10-19T15:19:00.000-07:00

A lovely wedding at the Hotel Boulderado. I so enjoy being part of these celebrations of love! photos by david west

The Knot magazine

2009-10-16T11:50:00.001-07:00

I just received the oh so amazingly beautiful, professional photos of the flowers I designed for The Knot party which too place this past summer! Jared Wilson of Jared Wilson Photography did a fabulous job of shooting at Denver's Theorie. I loved working under the direction of Nicole Milvaney from Denver's Rsvp Shindig, my favorite wedding and event planner. I was so excited to be chosen to take part in this very cool and hip party. www.theknot.com

The Chocolate Shoppe

2009-10-15T16:08:00.001-07:00

So, I was thinking that nothing goes better with roses than chocolate and since we're not an ordinary flower shop, we can't sell just ordinary chocolate. So, here is a sneak preview of the yummy items we will be offering on our website...chocolate mint tea, essence of chocolate candles, chocolate scented soap and chocolate scented bath salts. So deliciously decadent! As soon as I can get them posted on the website, I will let you know. We can deliver them locally with a lovely flower arrangement, or mail them to you. I will add more offerings to the menu as I discover new and wonderful things made from chocolate!

www.paintedprimrose.com

Three Peas in a Pod.

2009-10-15T15:15:00.001-07:00

It's not very often that I meet the bride for the first time on her wedding day. But such was the case this summer. My bride was working and living in Africa. Mom filled in and did all the leg work for her. Not an easy job by any means! But Mom did a lovely job planning, beautiful choices, great attention to detail. It was a gorgeous wedding indeed. Met not only the bride on her wedding day, but her two sisters as well. Like I said and as the picture shows, three peas in a pod. Cute as can be!
Photo compliments of David West. www.westphoto.ca

Rocky Mountain Weddings

2009-10-10T18:49:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love fall weddings in Colorado. Our wedding this weekend was in downtown Boulder. The wedding ceremony and reception were both within walking distance of one another. The majestic trees lining the Pearl Street mall are presently boasting their fabulous fall hues adding inspiration to this weekend's wedding flowers. Wedding at 1st Baptist church, reception at the historic Hotel Boulderado. Thanks to the guys at Hotel Boulderado for your ever willing assistance during this past wedding season, especially Chris and Nate. Thanks to Anna, also of the Boulderado who is always so organized, helpful and simply wonderful to work with. Today's fabulous wedding cake was designed by the talented pastry chef, Shamane of Shamane's Bake Shoppe.

A Spice of Life Catering

2009-10-08T20:18:00.001-07:00

Just finished an open house with Boulder's A Spice of Life Catering at Rembrandt Yard. The color scheme was black, ivory and purple. The food was delicious, music toe-tapping wonderful, samples of pumpkin ice cream, local brew beer and Boulder roasted coffe. Great night. www.rembrandtyard.com
www.aspiceoflife.com

A Painted Primrose Wedding with Denver's RSVP Shindig

2009-10-03T07:18:00.000-07:00

I love working with Nicole Mulvany from Denver's RSVP Shindig. Nicole is an amazing wedding planner. Calm, cool, collect and extremely organized. I appreciate that she trusts the talents of each vendor that she hires. "She let's me do my thang!" This was an autumn mountain wedding. The bride wanted to accent both her bouquet and the groom's boutonniere with pine cones. Nice touch. Visit Nicoles blog at http://rsvpshindig.livejournal.com/

A Painted Primose Wedding at the Red Lion Restaurant

2009-09-26T18:05:00.000-07:00

We just finished a wedding at the Red Lion Restaurant in Boulder, CO. The bride's favorite color is purple. I used a gorgeous stem of lavender hydrangea for the bouquet accented with lavender orchids, purple lisianthus, pale yellow Eufloria roses and lavender sweet peas. This bouquet is one of my very favorites from summer 2009, as was the bride! Thanks Lauren, you were a joy to work with!

Oh, by the way, The Red Lion has a new wedding ceremony arch. Apparently the bears used the last arch as a toy. Red Lions, tigers and bears, oh my!

Evel Kneivel Birthday Cake- Now That's a Cake!

2009-09-23T06:00:00.001-07:00

How's this for a birthday cake! Last weekend I surprised my husband with an Evel Kneivel themed birthday cake. Pastry Chef, Shamane of Shamane's Bake Shoppe created this spectacular cake. My husband, a lifetime Evel Kneivel loving fan, absolutely loved it. When the candles were lit and 90 plus people sang "Happy Birthday," it was just short of a heart attack!

The Painted Primrose is Featured in The Knot!!!

2009-09-21T18:59:00.000-07:00

I was so fortunate to have been asked to design flowers for the August 2009 Knot party at Theorie in Denver. And now, The Knot has featured some of my floral design work on their website. Please take a peak at www.theknot.com

Our Dream Wedding Reception

2009-09-20T06:52:00.001-07:00

Last week we were married. This week, we held our wedding reception at Lone Hawk Farms in Longmont, Colorado. It was lovely. All of our family and friends together under one roof was a gift in and of itself! The beautiful, restored barn at Lone Hawk was filled with twinkling lanterns set atop pale blue tablecloths. Twiggy nests filled with Italian Jordan almonds complimented the natural setting. Our dear friend Paul, from Boulder's Bombay Bistro served up platters of delicious Italian fare. Shamane from Shamane's bake shoppe created two magnificent cakes for us, a wedding cake and a birthday cake for my dear husband, decorated in true Evil Knievel style. His life-time hero. Tim, from Art of the Flower designed the abundance of flowers. Just my style, a little bit country, a little bit shabby chic.
Cee, from the Thompson House Inn and Tea Room served a lovely hot tea for us. Rachel from Talia Events helped keep everything on schedule and my dear friends Lynne and Laura took care of the rest. It was spectacular. Better than I could have ever imagined. A milllion thanks to all!

wedding at the st. julien hotel and spa boulder colorado

2009-09-14T06:35:00.000-07:00

We designed a wedding at Boulder's St. Julien Hotel and Spa on Saturday. The Bride's family surprised her with elaborate gazebo decorations. The bride was only expecting two small vased arrangements to be positioned on the stairs. It was a cloudy and misty day reminiscent of the English countryside. Quite fitting as the father of the bride was a native of England. I always tell my brides that the photographers absolutely love cloudy days, as the pictures turn out full and vibrant. Here's to rain at an outdoor wedding. Cheers.

When the Florist is Wed

2009-09-13T07:52:00.000-07:00

So we tied the knot on 9-9-09! It was more beautiful than I could have ever imagined. I envisioned an informal, backyard wedding. No fuss. No stress. The minister, our children and just a hand-full of close friends were present. No suitcoat, no tie, nothing stuffy. I wore a silk dress with a lovely watercolor type print of butterflies and flowers. I hand-selected the flowers for my bouquet the day before. No fuss, no stress. I attached a blue butterfly for whimsy, as well as to cover the something blue part. Next weekend is our reception. Our hearts are full. What a gift to be married and madly in love.

Today I am Getting Married!

2009-09-09T06:29:00.000-07:00

Last year, my boyfriend proclaimed that we were getting married on 9-9-09, as the number 9 is his lucky number. Well, I agreed, but I never thought the day would come. He is a motorcycle enthusiast, not the long road, sightseeing, touring type, but the fast as lightening, everthing is a blur, hang on for your dear life sort. Thus this portrait. Our wedding is going to be quite intimate. Our children, the minister and a couple of friends, a lovely pond, magnificent weeping willow tree and a scattering of rose petals. I will be sure to post a photo of my bouquet. Yes, I designed it myself. Nothing stuffy. No preordered flowers. Just walked into the flower market yesterday, spotted some half price garden roses, score, and let it create itself. I am so excited for this day. Love and kisses to all. Sarah

happy labor day weekend!

2009-09-04T16:03:00.000-07:00

A flower arrangement to inspire you all weekend. Be safe. Have fun. Enjoy one another.

Romantic Wedding Bouquets.

2009-09-03T18:23:00.001-07:00

Beautiful bride and groom. Fun pic taken on the Pearl Street Mall, Boulder. Thanks to photographer Kari @ www.kmclain.com. This was one of my favorite summer bouquets. Vandella roses, white lisianthus and seeded eucalyptus. I absolutely love white on white. Elegant Chic.

denver bridal shows

2009-09-02T15:24:00.001-07:00

Last weekend, I designed two matching flower arrangements for Ameristar Casinos Hotel and Spa in Blackhawk, Colorado. They had a very impressive trade booth at a Denver Bridal Show. Wendy Ratkin is the catering manager. She was a pleasure to work with. Wendy has many years of experience in the wedding business, you will love her too. www.ameristar.com/Black_Hawk.aspx

Colorado Weddings

2009-09-01T12:58:00.001-07:00

I recently designed the wedding flowers for a lovely couple in Longmont Colorado. They hosted an outdoor wedding reception in a very lush and beautiful backyard. Their colors were black and white. Very chic. I must say it was a pleasure working with them as they were very much in love. "Sigh." I was invited to the reception as well, that is really a gift to me. Thank you. Please take a peak at the photographers website. One of the most talented photographers I have worked with!
www.angiewilsonphotography.com

Canyon House Wedding

2009-08-31T06:38:00.001-07:00

A truly romantic wedding at Boulder's Canyon House. The bride was lovely in her lace gown accented by the pink garden rose bouquet. Wonderful photos by www.stonecrandall.com. Thanks for visiting.

wedding centerpieces

2009-08-29T18:37:00.001-07:00

I love these orchid centerpieces that I designed for a recent Boulder wedding. Just a tall cylinder, black rock, floating Mokara orchid and topped off with a candle. Big bang for not a lot of buck! You can choose to use one, or three, just different heights. Modern and elegant.

Wedding at The Red Lion Restaurant

2009-08-21T06:18:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Kern-Photo for these lovely photos of our August 15th wedding at the Red Lion Restaurant. I absolutely love a photographer that can have photos available in a week. Wow, that's amazing! Christie's colors were royal blue, purple and yellow. Locally grown yellow dahlias, local delphinium and purple iris were used throughout all floral pieces. Christie was one of my very favorite brides this year. A pleasure to work with. www.kern-photo.com

the knot party denver

2009-08-20T06:27:00.001-07:00

Attended the 2009 Knot Market Party in Denver last night. I really had a lovely time. I was asked to design the flowers for the event. (Great honor, thanks ladies!) The location was at Theorie on Market street. It was the actual location featured on MTV's Real World Denver, 2007. Kudos to Nicole Mulvany of RSVPShindig for organizing the event. Enjoy the pics. Pick up the latest issue of the knot. www.theknot.com

ohnuts.com

2009-08-17T13:07:00.000-07:00

I have a September bride who is in love with the color robin's egg blue. We are going to order beautiful light blue jordan almonds to fill tiny twig bird nests for each placesetting. Jordan almonds at a wedding is actually an Italian tradition as well. Will post pics after the wedding. Order an array of candy, chocolate, nuts etc. at www.ohnuts.com

wedding at the folsum field stadium club boulder

2009-08-17T06:18:00.000-07:00

Recently delivered a wedding to the folsum field stadium club in boulder. very impressive location. the club is located above the football field at the university of colorado. the view was breathtaking. the details were amazing down to the tab of butter formed in the shape of the school's mascot, ralphie. great wedding location!

Weddings at The Red Lion Restaurant

2009-08-16T13:18:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we delivered a wedding to the Red Lion Restaurant in Boulder. The weather was perfect, 80 degrees, slight breeze and the nearby brook was babbling. The bride choose a blue, yellow and purple theme. The flowers performed beautifully. Thanks to my cute son for helping process, Laura, for helping to deliver and to Tina, for the referral. All the best...www.redlionrestaurant.com

weddings on wilderness place

2009-08-10T06:49:00.000-07:00

It was a very busy wedding weekend here at Wilderness Place. Shamane and I both had a weekend filled with events. Everday, Shamane and I visit one another to see what beautiful creations one another is working on. This weekend Shamane delivered 200 individual wedding cakes to a mountain wedding. They were so pretty, speckled with swiss dots. White on white is one of my favorite color schemes. Your are welcome to visit as well. Shamanes bake shoppe 2825 Wilderness Place, sweet 800, Boulder 80301. www.shamanesbakeshoppe.com

romantic rose wedding bouquets

2009-08-08T11:32:00.000-07:00

Here is a sneak preview of today's wedding at the Hotel Boulderado and Rembrandt Yard. I just love the soft ivory monochromatic color scheme. Ivory Vandella roses, cream lisianthus, green hydrangea, seeded eucalyptus, and blupurem foliages. As always, I will post the professional photographer's pics when I receive them.

Talia Events Wedding Planner

2009-07-22T15:58:00.000-07:00

I recently met the most wonderful wedding planner! Rachel Hagen with Talia Events. She's organized, calm, professional, knowledgeable, prompt, I could go on and on. Check out her website at www.taliaevents.com
Call her, better yet book her! You'll love her too.

Rainbow Roses a Love, Love Relationship

2009-07-21T13:14:00.000-07:00

Ok, so if you have never seen a "Rainbow Rose" take a peak. I happen to love them. You might also call them "Tie Die Roses." They are quite a novelty. Each petal is a different color. Someone, somewhere has figured out way to inject colored dye into the rose stems which in turn, creates this amazing look. Some designers hate them, I love them. I believe there is a customer for everything and a time and place as well. Yesterday, I sent out a bouquet filled with gerbera daisies and rainbow roses to a little girl battling cancer. I am sure they added sunshine to her day.