The Flower Blog

Flowers from Alaska: What We Found Along the Way🌸

Posted by Mon, Sep 14, 2026 @ 04:59 PM

KSBADGE_25-02When flowers are part of your everyday life, you tend to notice them everywhere—even when you are surrounded by mountains, glaciers and some of the most incredible scenery you have ever seen.

This summer, our family traded Indiana for Alaska! All of my siblings, some of our kids, our dad and my brothers’ wives spent five wonderful days together in Palmer, about an hour outside Anchorage.

DADWe packed plenty into those five days. We went fishing, took family photos at Hatcher Pass, explored Independence Mine and rode the Glacier Discovery Train to the Whistle Stop for an unforgettable glacier adventure. Everywhere we looked, Alaska gave us another beautiful view—and another reason to pull out our cameras.

Even the weather gave us something to smile about. The Anchorage and Palmer areas were under a heat warning as temperatures approached 73 degrees—which felt pretty wonderful to those of us visiting from Indiana!

Of course, we were also looking at the flowers.

Alaska’s landscape can feel huge and dramatic, but some of its loveliest details were growing right at our feet. We found tiny bell-shaped blossoms tucked into alpine groundcover, bright fireweed lining the roads and hillsides, bold columbines, peaceful patches of wild geranium and even a miniature red-tipped lichen that looked like something from a fairy garden.

Some of our finds were native wildflowers, one was a cultivated Alaska favorite and one was not technically a flower at all—but every one of them was worth stopping to admire.

The Flowers and Botanical Treasures We Found

MountainSucculentsAlaska Moss Heather (Harrimanella stelleriana)

Also known as Alaska bellheather, this tiny evergreen shrub hugs the ground in alpine areas. Its dainty cream-white bells nod from pinkish-red stems, creating a surprising amount of detail in a very small package. It was a wonderful reminder to look down while taking in those enormous mountain views.

King’s Crown (Rhodiola integrifolia)

King’s Crown, also called ledge stonecrop, is a hardy succulent built for rocky, high-elevation conditions. Its tight clusters of deep reddish-maroon flowers sit above thick green leaves like a tiny crown. Delicate-looking flowers growing in such a rugged place felt very Alaskan—beautiful, tough and completely at home.

Alaska-Grown Peonies (Paeonia species)

Our gorgeous pink peonies were different from the wild alpine blooms around them. Peonies are cultivated rather than native Alaska wildflowers, but they have become an important specialty crop in the state. Alaska’s later blooming season helps growers supply these sought-after flowers during summer months when peonies are harder to find elsewhere.

As florists, finding those big, fluffy blooms in Alaska felt like running into an old friend very far from home.

After we returned, Sarah visited Life.Style.Live! to share more about Alaska’s remarkable peony season. During our trip, the Anchorage and Palmer areas received about 17 to 18 hours of sunlight between sunrise and sunset. Add in the long twilight, and the flowers experienced roughly 22 hours of functional light each day.

That abundance of light helps flowers move through their summer growing cycle quickly, despite Alaska’s short season. The peonies we saw were incredible, with some blooms stretching five to six inches across. Alaska’s late peony season also helps fill a summertime gap when these favorite flowers are difficult to find elsewhere.

Watch Sarah share the full story on Life.Style.Live!

pinetreeWestern Columbine (Aquilegia formosa)

Western columbine knows how to make an entrance. Its dangling red-and-yellow flowers have long, swept-back spurs and a shape unlike anything else around them. These colorful blooms are also attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators. They looked both wild and wonderfully fancy—like Alaska dressed up for a special occasion.

Fireweed (Chamerion angustifolium)

If one flower could represent the color of an Alaskan summer, fireweed would be a strong contender. Tall spikes of brilliant pink-purple blooms covered roadsides, fields and hillsides everywhere we traveled.

Fireweed gets its name from its ability to grow quickly in disturbed ground, including areas affected by wildfire. It brings bright color back to recovering landscapes and is one of Alaska’s most recognizable summer sights.

Cow Parsnip (Heracleum maximum)

Cow parsnip is impossible to overlook. This large plant can grow taller than a person and produces wide, umbrella-shaped clusters of tiny white flowers. We saw it lining moist woodland areas and trails, where its impressive size added even more drama to the landscape.

It is a “look, but do not touch” beauty. Cow parsnip sap can make skin extremely sensitive to sunlight and may cause a painful rash or blistering, so it is best admired with a little distance.

Wild Geranium (Geranium erianthum)

Also called woolly geranium, this lovely wildflower brightens meadows and open hillsides with soft purple, five-petaled blooms. We found it glowing beneath the Alaskan sun with mountains rising behind it—which was a fairly spectacular setting for such a sweet little flower.

ALASKAFLOWERS2Bunchberry or Dwarf Dogwood (Cornus canadensis)

Bunchberry looks like a tiny dogwood growing directly on the forest floor. What appear to be four white petals are actually bracts surrounding a cluster of very small flowers. Later in the season, those flowers give way to bright red berries.

It is small, tidy and unbelievably charming. If woodland fairies needed landscaping, bunchberry would be an excellent choice.

Common Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Yarrow is a resilient plant with soft, fern-like foliage and broad clusters of tiny white flowers. It grows in many different places and has a long history of traditional use. Even among Alaska’s flashier pinks, reds and purples, its simple white blooms held their own.

Red-Tipped Cladonia Lichen (Cladonia species)

This one earns a place as our honorary flower! Lichens are not flowers—or even plants—but the tiny green cups with brilliant red tips looked like miniature forest blooms.

Red-tipped Cladonia species can be difficult to tell apart from a photograph alone. Cladonia bellidiflora is commonly called “toy soldiers,” while the similar “British soldiers” name usually refers to Cladonia cristatella, a species associated with the eastern United States. Whatever its exact name, finding this tiny living world tucked among the moss was pure magic.

Wild Alpine Penstemon (Penstemon procerus)

Our final purple find featured small tubular flowers clustered along upright stems. Alpine penstemon thrives in rocky, subalpine settings where many less-hardy plants would struggle. Its rich blue-purple color stood out beautifully against all that green.

A Trip We Will Always Remember
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We went to Alaska for the adventure, the scenery and—most importantly—the chance to spend time together as a family. The fishing, train ride, glacier, mountain views and family photos were all incredible, but some of the best memories came from simply experiencing everything together.

The trip carried extra meaning for our family. It was a bucket-list adventure we had hoped to take together, but our mom passed away last year before we had the chance. Sharing Alaska with our dad, siblings, spouses and some of the kids gave us time to make new memories together while carrying her with us.

Spending time with family is important, and this is a trip we will remember for a very long time. Getting to experience the beauty of Alaska together was priceless. Coming home with a phone full of cool flower photos to share with all of you? Also priceless. 💚

The next time you travel, remember to look down between those big scenic views. You never know what tiny bloom—or honorary flower—is waiting to be discovered.

Which of our Alaska flower finds is your favorite?

Topics: Family Business, Alaska, Family Trip

Birthday Gifts They’ll Love: Fresh Ideas for Making Their Day Special

Posted by Sun, Sep 13, 2026 @ 04:00 PM

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“Every birthday is a gift. Every day is a gift." — Aretha Franklin

Lewis Carroll had a point. Birthdays are fun! Getting gifts is fun, and finding just the right gift for someone you love can be even better. There is something special about choosing a surprise that says, “I know you, I thought about you and I’m glad you’re here.”


Of course, finding that perfect gift can also leave you staring at your phone and wondering what people even want these days. The good news? A meaningful birthday gift does not have to be the biggest, newest or most expensive thing. Some of today’s best gifts create a memory, feel personal or bring a little more joy to everyday life.

Here are a few fresh ideas to help make their birthday feel extra special. 🎉

24TK02-Lavender-Haze-368pxGive Them Something to Look Forward To

Experience gifts continue to be a fun way to celebrate, especially for the person who says they do not need more “stuff.” Think concert or theater tickets, a cooking or art class, a museum visit, brunch at a favorite restaurant, a spa appointment or a day exploring somewhere new.

You can still give them something beautiful to open. Pair the plans with a colorful bouquet, a box of chocolates or a candle in a scent they will love. The experience gives them a memory to make, and the smaller gift makes the birthday moment feel complete.

Turn Flower Shopping Into the Treat

Sometimes the outing itself can be part of the gift! Bring the birthday person to Gillespie Florists and let them explore our store, see what is blooming and choose their favorites from our cooler. They can pick out fresh flowers for a hand-wrapped bouquet, find a cheerful arrangement or discover a little something they did not know they needed.

Add lunch, coffee or dessert afterward, and you have an easy birthday experience with flowers included. Honestly, wandering through beautiful blooms and leaving with an armful of color sounds like a pretty good birthday to us. 💐

Choose Something That Keeps Growing

Succuelents_CatPlants are wonderful gifts for someone who enjoys bringing a little nature indoors. A peaceful dish garden, blooming plant or collection of greenery in a fun container adds life to a desk, kitchen, office or favorite reading corner.

Choose a container that fits their personality—sweet, colorful, modern, rustic or whimsical—and the planter becomes part of the gift. With the right care, they can enjoy it long after the birthday candles have been blown out.

Create a Cozy Birthday Bundle

Small luxuries are always welcome. Start with flowers or a plant, then add a few treats chosen just for them. Candles, chocolates and thoughtful keepsakes can turn one gift into a whole little moment of comfort.

Try pairing:

  • A bright bouquet with chocolates for someone who loves a classic birthday surprise.
  • A peaceful plant with a candle for the person who deserves a quiet afternoon.
  • A keepsake container filled with flowers for a gift that stays useful after the blooms are gone.
  • A wind chime with fresh flowers for someone who enjoys their porch, patio or garden.

It does not have to be a giant gift basket. Two or three well-chosen items can feel wonderfully personal.

Add a Personal Touch to a Gift Card

Gift cards are still useful—especially when they are for a favorite restaurant, local shop, creative class or special outing. The trick is making one feel like more than a last-minute envelope.

Tuck it into a bouquet, pair it with chocolates or include a note explaining why you chose it. A card for a bookstore feels more thoughtful with a note about the book you cannot wait for them to pick. Tickets feel more exciting with flowers in their favorite color. It is the personal connection that adds the “WOW!”

Celebrate With Little Moments

You do not need a seven-day birthday extravaganza—unless that is your thing, in which case, please proceed! A few small surprises throughout the day or weekend can be just as memorable.

Bring them coffee in the morning. Take over a chore they hate. Send a funny message at the exact time they were born. Plan their favorite dinner. Surprise them with flowers at home or work. The goal is not to make the celebration elaborate; it is to make the person feel seen.

17V02_CrazyForYou_800pxFlowers Are Always a Beautiful Idea

When you are unsure what to give—or the birthday arrived a little faster than expected—flowers are a joyful place to start. Colorful blooms instantly make the day feel like a celebration, and our designers can create something that fits the recipient’s favorite colors, personality and style.

Choose a bright birthday bouquet, a peaceful plant in a unique container or a hand-wrapped bundle of fresh blooms. Add chocolates, a candle, a wind chime or another thoughtful keepsake, and you have a gift that feels personal without making birthday shopping complicated.

Let’s Make Their Birthday Bloom! 🎂

Explore the birthday collection on the Gillespie Florists website to send something beautiful, or stop by our Indianapolis store and enjoy browsing the cooler, plants, candles, chocolates, wind chimes and keepsakes in person. Bring the birthday guest along and let choosing fresh blooms become part of their celebration—or visit us on your own and keep the surprise!

However you celebrate, we would love to help you make their one official birthday feel a little more extraordinary.

Ready to make their birthday bloom? Visit the Gillespie Florists website to browse colorful bouquets, cheerful plants and thoughtful gifts for every kind of celebration. Choose their favorite and let us help deliver a little birthday happiness! 🎉💐

Topics: flowers in Indianapolis, birthday, flowersforlife, birthday flowers

The Faces of Gillespie Florists: Meet Kennedy Smith

Posted by Thu, Sep 10, 2026 @ 05:00 PM

🌸 The Faces of Gillespie Florists 🌸

Today, we’re shining the spotlight on Kennedy Smith, a valued member of our Customer Service & Order Control team!

Kennedy has been part of the Gillespie Florists family for seven years. Her story with us began when she was just 15 years old and came in to help her mom during the busy Prom and Mother’s Day season. What started as lending a hand quickly became a permanent role, and we’re so glad it did!

When you call or visit Gillespie Florists, Kennedy may be one of the friendly faces helping make sure your order is just right. She loves helping our customers celebrate life’s happiest moments—from anniversaries and new babies to all the special occasions in between—and providing comfort through life’s most difficult days.

KennedySmithKennedy has a special gift for helping families select meaningful funeral tributes. She takes the time to learn about each loved one’s interests, personality and cherished memories, helping create floral arrangements that tell a story and honor a life well lived. Her hope is that every family she works with feels a little more peace and comfort during the planning process.

🌼 Favorite Flowers: Dahlias, Gerbera Daisies & Ranunculus
💐 Favorite Design to Help With: Funeral Arrangements
❤️ Favorite Holiday at the Shop: Valentine’s Day
🌿 Favorite Arrangement on Our Website: White Lick Wilds

One of Kennedy’s favorite parts of working at Gillespie Florists is the close-knit, family atmosphere she shares with her coworkers—especially getting to work alongside her mom during our busy holiday seasons.

When she’s not at the shop, Kennedy enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring the outdoors, traveling and soaking up the sunshine. She’s also pursuing a degree in Accounting at the Indiana University Kelley School of Business!

Thank you, Kennedy, for your kindness, dedication and the genuine care you show every customer. We’re so lucky to have you as part of our Gillespie Florists family! 💚

#FacesOfGillespieFlorists #MeetTheTeam #GillespieFlorists #FlowerShop #LocalFlorist #CustomerService #IndianaFlorist #FlowersForEveryOccasion

Topics: meet the staff, indianapolis flowers

When Words Are Hard: Meaningful Ways to Support Someone Who Is Grieving

Posted by Sun, Sep 06, 2026 @ 05:00 PM

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It can be difficult to know what to say when someone is grieving. If you’re anything like me—and your natural instinct is to make people smile or laugh—you may feel especially unsure of yourself. You want to offer comfort, but no joke or perfect phrase can make the loss disappear.

Fortunately, showing someone you care doesn’t require perfect words. A simple message, a thoughtful gesture or a beautiful arrangement can remind them that they are loved and remembered.

DeepestSympathy

Last year, grief touched our immediate Gillespie family when my siblings and I lost our mom, and our dad lost his wife. We each experienced that loss in our own way. For me, it helped when people reached out. They didn’t have to say anything profound. Sometimes a simple “I’m thinking of you” was enough to remind me I wasn’t alone.

What Can You Say?

“I’m sorry for your loss” is a traditional expression of sympathy, but it isn’t the only option. If those words don’t feel natural—or you didn’t know the person who passed away—focus on letting the grieving person know you care.

You might say or write:

  • “I’m thinking of you and your family.”
  • “Sending you love during this difficult time.”
  • “Holding you close in my thoughts.”
  • “I know how much they meant to you.”
  • “Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.”
  • “I’m here if you need anything.”
  • “Thinking of you—there is no need to reply.”
  • “Wishing you comfort in the days ahead.”

If you knew the person who passed away, using their name or sharing a brief memory can make your message especially meaningful:

  • “I will always remember how she made everyone feel welcome.”
  • “He always knew how to make me laugh.”
  • “I feel fortunate to have known her.”
  • “One of my favorite memories of him is…”

You don’t need to explain the loss, find a silver lining or write something elaborate. A few sincere words are often enough.

Let Flowers Help Express What Is in Your Heart

GF5113_800pxFlowers have long been a traditional way to express sympathy. When words are difficult to find, blooms can communicate love, remembrance and support in a beautiful and gentle way.

Sympathy flowers may be sent to a visitation, funeral or memorial service. They can also be delivered directly to the family’s home. An arrangement sent in the days or weeks after the service can be especially thoughtful, bringing a little warmth and beauty when the first rush of activity has quieted.

Flowers can also be personalized. A favorite bloom, meaningful color or special style can reflect the personality of the person being remembered. Keepsake containers, garden stones, figurines and wind chimes offer the family something they can hold onto after the flowers have faded.

If you aren’t sure what type of arrangement is appropriate, that is where we can help. Tell us a little about the person, your relationship with the family and where the flowers will be delivered. Our Gillespie Florists team can guide you toward something thoughtful and fitting.

 

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Consider a Living Tribute

A green or blooming plant can be another meaningful option for someone who enjoys caring for plants. It may bring comfort to a home or office while serving as a lasting reminder of the person who sent it.

I received a plant when my first baby was born and kept it until we moved—more than a decade later. Over the years, it became more than a plant. It reminded me of an important chapter in my life and of the people who cared enough to mark it with something living.

Plants may not last forever, but the memories connected to them can remain long after the gift itself is gone.




Other Ways to Show Your Support

Flowers are a beautiful way to express sympathy, but they aren’t the only way to show someone you care. Support can also look like:

  • Delivering a meal or sending a restaurant gift card
  • Picking up groceries or household necessities
  • Helping with children or pets
  • Taking care of the lawn or trash bins
  • Sending a handwritten letter or card
  • Inviting someone for a quiet walk
  • Sitting with them and listening
  • Checking in without expecting an immediate reply

If you offer practical help, try to be specific. “I can leave dinner on your porch Thursday” may be easier to answer than “Let me know if you need anything.”

Keep Showing Up

Grief doesn’t end after the funeral. Immediately following a loss, families may be surrounded by calls, cards, flowers, meals and visitors. As the weeks pass, that support often becomes quieter—but knowing someone still cares can mean just as much later.

Consider checking in again after a few weeks or months. Send a text, mail a card, bring dinner on an ordinary Tuesday or deliver flowers simply to say, “We’re still thinking of you.”

Birthdays, holidays, anniversaries and other meaningful dates may also be difficult. Remembering those days lets someone know that their loved one has not been forgotten.

You don’t have to ask questions or expect a reply. A simple message such as, “Thinking of you today—no need to respond,” offers support without placing any pressure on the person receiving it.

Sometimes Comfort Comes Without Words

Even quiet companionship can help. We have several friendly dogs around the Gillespie Florists shop. They aren’t service or therapy animals—they are simply shop dogs who love giving affection. For visitors who are comfortable around dogs, a wagging-tail welcome and a few minutes of puppy love may offer a small moment of comfort during a difficult day.

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There Is No Expiration Date on Caring

Flowers, plants, cards, meals, practical help and quiet companionship are all meaningful ways to show someone you care. Your gesture doesn’t have to be grand, and your words don’t have to be perfect. What matters is reaching out—and continuing to remember them after the first difficult days have passed.

The Gillespie Florists team understands how personal these moments can be. Whether you need help choosing sympathy flowers, selecting a living tribute or finding the right words for a card, we are honored to help you send comfort in a thoughtful and beautiful way.

Visit our Sympathy & Funeral Flowers page, call us at 317-273-1100 or stop by the shop at 9255 West 10th Street.

 

Topics: local florist, sympathy, alternative to sympathy flowers, indianapolis flowers

September Birth Month Flowers: Aster & Morning Glory

Posted by Tue, Sep 01, 2026 @ 12:00 PM

KSBADGE_25-02September is here, bringing cooler mornings, early fall color and plenty of birthdays to celebrate!

The traditional birth flowers for September are the aster and morning glory. One blooms brightly as summer winds down, while the other greets each new day with colorful, trumpet-shaped flowers. Together, they represent love, wisdom, patience, hope and fresh beginnings.

Let’s get to know these September favorites!

Asters: Little Stars of the Garden

Asters get their name from the ancient Greek word for “star,” inspired by their star-like, daisy-shaped blooms. They typically flower in late summer and fall, adding a welcome burst of color as many summer flowers begin to fade.

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Asters are associated with wisdom, patience, faith and powerful love. Their meaning can also change with their color:

  • Purple asters represent wisdom, dignity and royalty.
  • White asters symbolize purity, innocence and trust.
  • Pink asters express affection and gentle admiration.
  • Blue asters are associated with tranquility and reflection.

Quick Facts and Care Tips

  • Asters are late-season favorites for bees, butterflies and migrating monarchs.
  • Most varieties grow best in full sun, although some are happy with a little afternoon shade.
  • Plant them in moist, well-drained soil and water regularly during dry weather.
  • Taller varieties may appreciate a little support to keep their stems standing proudly.

With the right location, asters can bring cheerful color to the garden from late summer well into fall.

 

Morning Glories: A Bright Start to the Day

Morning glories are fast-growing climbing vines with colorful, trumpet-shaped blossoms. True to their name, the flowers open in the morning sun and begin closing later in the day.

morningglory-1Because their blooms are brief, morning glories remind us to slow down and enjoy the beauty right in front of us. They are associated with affection, hope, fresh starts and new beginnings.

Their colors add even more meaning:

  • Blue morning glories represent trust, calmness and enduring affection.
  • Purple morning glories symbolize grace, hopefulness and peace.
  • Pink morning glories express gratitude and joyful energy.
  • White morning glories represent purity and new beginnings.

Quick Facts and Care Tips

  • Morning glories love sunshine and grow best in moist, well-drained soil.
  • Give these twining vines a trellis, fence or another sturdy support to climb.
  • Soaking the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting can help them germinate.
  • Morning glories can grow quickly and may reseed enthusiastically, so keep an eye on where they wander!

Some varieties can grow 6 to 10 feet in a single season, creating a colorful covering for fences, trellises and garden structures.

Two Flowers Made for September

Asters and morning glories may look very different, but they make a wonderful pair. Asters keep blooming as the seasons change, while morning glories encourage us to welcome each new day.

Together, they offer a cheerful September reminder: appreciate today, look forward to what comes next and always make room for something beautiful!

Celebrate a September Birthday 💐

Birth flowers are a fun way to make a birthday gift feel more personal. Choose the flower itself when available or select an arrangement inspired by its colors and meanings.

Ready to make their day? Browse our Birthday Flowers collection to find something bright and beautiful, or visit us at 9255 W. 10th Street in Indianapolis. Our Gillespie Florists team would love to help you choose the perfect flowers for your favorite September birthday!

Topics: birthday, birth month flower, indianapolis flowers

Welcome Izzy Mae!

Posted by Thu, Aug 27, 2026 @ 12:59 PM

Welcome to the Gillespie Florists Family, Izzy Mae! 🐾

There’s a new little face joining the Gillespie Florists family, and we couldn’t be more excited to introduce her!

Izzy Mae Mendenhall, the newest addition to Della’s family, was born on June 5, 2026. We are thrilled to welcome this sweet girl into our hearts, our lives and all the flower-shop fun that awaits her.

Of course, Izzy Mae already has a very important mentor. Minnie is a proud big sister and will be showing her the ropes—from keeping an eye on the shop’s daily activity to posing for plenty of adorable pictures. We have a feeling these two will make quite the team!

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Bulldogs have long been a special part of everyday life at Gillespie Florists. They aren’t simply pets who occasionally visit the shop; they are beloved members of our family and unofficial mascots who bring plenty of personality, companionship and joy to our days.

We are excited to see Izzy Mae grow alongside Minnie, learn the ropes, make new memories and add her wonderful personality to the shop. 💕 As she settles into the familiar rhythm of life at Gillespie Florists, we already know there will be plenty of “SO CUTE!” pictures and videos ahead—and we can’t wait to share them with you.

Come Say Hello! 🌸

Keep an eye out for Minnie and Izzy Mae when you visit our store. Our Gillespie girls are an important part of what makes the shop feel like home, and we can’t wait for everyone to get to know the newest member of our floral family!

Topics: Indianapolis, shop mascot, indianapolis flowers

August Birth Month Flowers: Gladiolus and Poppies

Posted by Sat, Aug 01, 2026 @ 12:00 PM

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August is bursting with sunshine, bright colors and plenty of reasons to celebrate! It’s only fitting that the month’s birth flowers—the gladiolus and poppy—are just as full of personality. Together, these beautiful blooms represent strength, integrity, remembrance and resilience.


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Gladiolus: Strong, Striking and Full of Meaning

It’s easy to see why glads stand out in a bouquet. With tall stems lined with colorful blooms, they add height, movement and a little extra drama to an arrangement. We love using them to create designs that feel bright, cheerful and full of life!

The full name gladiolus comes from the Latin word gladius, meaning “sword,” and refers to the flower’s long, pointed leaves. This is also how glads earned the nickname “sword lily.” Their strong, upright appearance has made them a symbol of strength, victory and moral integrity—the perfect flower for someone who leads with courage and stays true to themselves.

Glads also have a romantic side! During the Victorian era, giving someone gladiolus meant the recipient had “pierced the giver’s heart with love.” Today, they can still represent admiration, affection and infatuation.

What Do Glad Colors Mean?

Glads come in a wonderful variety of colors, and each one can add its own special message:

  • Red represents love and passion.
  • Yellow symbolizes happiness, friendship and encouragement.
  • Pink expresses compassion, tenderness and a mother’s love.
  • White represents purity, innocence and sincerity.
  • Purple symbolizes grace, beauty and admiration.

Whether you select a color for its symbolism or simply because it makes you smile, glads are a lovely way to send a meaningful message.

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Poppies: Remembrance, Imagination and Resilience

Poppies may look delicate, but they carry plenty of powerful meaning. They are best known as symbols of remembrance, especially when honoring those who have passed away or those who lost their lives during times of war.

Poppies are also connected to sleep, dreams and imagination. In ancient stories and mythology, they were associated with rest and peace, giving these colorful flowers a lovely connection to creativity and the dream world.

Because poppies can grow in disturbed soil and challenging conditions, they have also become symbols of resilience. They’re a beautiful reminder that even after difficult seasons, something lovely can still grow.

Three Fun Facts About August’s Birth Flowers

  • Glads belong to the iris family, despite their “sword lily” nickname.
  • Glad blooms generally open from the bottom of the stem upward, allowing their colorful display to unfold over time.
  • Gladiolus was the winning word at the very first National Spelling Bee in the United States in 1925!

Celebrate an August Birthday with Glads

With their beautiful colors, tall stems and cheerful personality, glads make a wonderful addition to an August birthday arrangement. Their message of strength and admiration also makes them a meaningful choice for celebrating someone special.

Visit our website to order a Designer’s Choice bouquet and let us know you’d like glads included. When they’re available, our talented designers can incorporate them into a one-of-a-kind arrangement filled with fresh seasonal flowers and designed especially for your recipient.

Topics: flowers in Indianapolis, birthday, birth month flower, birthday flowers

🚗 Spin to Win: Announcing Our Roundabout Roulette Game & Construction Updates! 🎡

Posted by Sun, Jul 26, 2026 @ 12:00 PM

KSBADGE_25-02Hey there, floral fans and loyal neighbors! If you’ve driven past the intersection of 10th Street and Raceway Road recently, you’ve probably noticed a few more orange barrels than usual. Full-scale construction on the brand-new roundabout is officially hitting high gear, and we know that navigating detours can be a bit of a headache.

But here at Gillespie Florists, we refuse to let construction throw us off our stride. In fact, we think braving the traffic maze deserves a serious reward. That’s why we are turning a construction headache into a celebration with our exclusive Roundabout Roulette Game!


🎡 How to Play Roundabout Roulette (August 9th – September 5th, 2026)

Starting Sunday, August 9th through Saturday, September 5th, every single customer who braves the construction zones and makes an in-store purchase gets to step up and spin our official prize wheel!

There are no losing spaces on this wheel. Just spin, win, and take home something beautiful.
Check out the incredible prizes up for grabs:

Minnie says “the road may be closed but we are still open!” Our Roundabout Roulette starts today (1)

 

🚧 Road Construction & Access Updates: How to Find Us!

We want to reassure everyone that Gillespie Florists is fully open and completely accessible throughout the entire construction project! While the main intersection is closed to through traffic, our shop is classified under "Local Traffic," meaning you are 100% legally permitted to drive past the barricades to come see us.

🗺️ Best Route to the Shop:

✨ EFFECTIVE FRIDAY, JULY 10TH: The construction crew will be opening our Raceway Road entrance and closing the 10th Street entrance!

This means the ONLY way to access our lot is by traveling NORTHBOUND on Raceway Road (from Rockville Road). There will be no access to our lot via 10th Street at this time.

We are unsure how long this will last, but as soon as things change, we will give an update! (The plan is for both entrances to be open while they work in the middle of the intersection!) Follow our page to stay in the loop and get the latest "dirt" on construction detours at Raceway and 10th!

📞 Real-Time Navigation & Curbside Pickup

If you ever get stuck, feel confused by the detour signs, or want to verify the best route before you head out, just give our shop floor team a call at 317-273-1100. We will happily guide you through the barrels in real time!

Prefer not to leave your car? We’ve got you covered! We are glad to accommodate Curbside Pickup requests. Just place your order over the phone, call us when you pull up to the shop, and one of our team members will run your gorgeous flowers right out to your vehicle.


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Topics: Gillespie Florists, indianapolis flowers

Let Curiosity Bloom in the Classroom

Posted by Mon, Jul 20, 2026 @ 01:00 PM

KSBADGE_25-02Back-to-school season is filled with fresh notebooks, sharpened pencils, decorated bulletin boards and plenty of new possibilities. As teachers prepare their classrooms for another year of learning, adding a little nature can help make the space feel warmer, more welcoming and ready for curious young minds.

Plants and flowers are more than classroom decorations. They can encourage responsibility, inspire hands-on learning and give students something living to observe and care for throughout the school year.

Create a Warm and Welcoming Space

Classrooms are busy places, but a touch of greenery can make them feel more comfortable and inviting. A cheerful plant on a shelf, a small succulent near a sunny window or a floral arrangement on the teacher’s desk can add color and life without overwhelming the room.

Plants can also soften spaces filled with desks, technology and school supplies, helping the classroom feel cared for and ready for learning.

Encourage Focus and a Positive Atmosphere

Natural elements can provide a welcome visual break during a busy school day. Looking at greenery or tending to a classroom plant gives students an opportunity to pause, reset and return to their work.

While a few plants cannot replace proper ventilation or an air-filtration system, they can still help create a classroom environment that feels pleasant, cheerful and connected to the natural world.

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Bring Science Lessons to Life

A classroom plant is also a living learning opportunity. Students can observe how plants respond to sunlight, track their growth and learn what they need to remain healthy.

Plants and flowers can support lessons about:

  • Plant parts and life cycles
  • Photosynthesis and pollination
  • The importance of sunlight, soil and water
  • Seasonal changes
  • Habitats and ecosystems
  • Color, texture, shape and pattern

Teachers can even turn plant care into a classroom experiment by charting growth, comparing different growing conditions or examining petals, leaves and stems under a microscope.

 

Teach Responsibility and Teamwork

Caring for classroom plants gives students a simple, age-appropriate responsibility. Jobs such as checking the soil, watering, rotating a pot toward the sunlight or removing faded leaves can become part of the classroom routine.

Students can take turns as the weekly “plant helper,” work together to maintain a small windowsill garden or keep a journal documenting changes they notice. These activities encourage consistency, observation and teamwork—and give students a sense of pride as they watch their plants grow.

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Encourage Creativity

Flowers and plants naturally invite students to look closely. The curve of a leaf, the pattern inside a flower or the different shades of green can inspire drawing, painting, creative writing and other art projects.

Students might sketch a flower, write a story from the perspective of a seed or create a color palette inspired by a bouquet. Nature offers endless ideas, and no two flowers or leaves are exactly alike.

Choosing the Right Classroom Plants

Classroom plants should be sturdy, manageable and suited to the amount of light available. Succulents can be a fun choice for sunny spaces, while other varieties may be better suited for indirect light.

 

Before choosing a plant, consider:

  • How much sunlight the classroom receives
  • How frequently the plant needs to be watered
  • Whether it is safe around children and classroom pets
  • The age of the students
  • Where it can be placed without being knocked over
  • Whether anyone in the classroom has allergies or sensitivities

Because some common houseplants—including peace lilies—can be harmful if eaten, always check a plant’s safety before bringing it into a classroom with young children or animals.

Recess_21SC07_1080px-1Gillespie Florists in the Classroom

At Gillespie Florists, we love helping young people discover the beauty and science found inside every bloom.

We have worked with local classrooms to give students hands-on experience creating bouquets and exploring flowers up close. Students have had the opportunity to examine the structures, colors and textures of different flowers—including seeing their fascinating details through a microscope.

These activities combine art, science and creativity in a memorable way, giving students a new appreciation for the flowers and plants growing all around them.

Let Something Wonderful Grow This School Year

Whether it’s a cheerful succulent, a leafy plant or a special planter for a favorite teacher, a little greenery can make a classroom feel brighter and more welcoming.


Explore our School Bus Succulents, Peace Lilies and School Planters, or contact Gillespie Florists for help choosing the perfect classroom addition. Here’s to a school year filled with curiosity, creativity and plenty of room to grow!

Here’s to a school year filled with curiosity, creativity and plenty of room to grow!

Topics: indianapolis flowers, back to school

Finding Your Rhythm: How Dancing, Flowers and Grounding Can Lift Your Spirits

Posted by Sat, Jul 18, 2026 @ 08:37 PM

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There’s something wonderfully freeing about turning on a favorite song and dancing—even if it’s only in your kitchen! Flowers can bring us that same kind of joy. Their beautiful colors, lovely fragrances and natural charm invite us to slow down, take a breath and enjoy the moment.

Dancing and flowers may seem like an unlikely pair, but both can help us express ourselves, connect with others and feel a little brighter. Add grounding—the practice of making direct physical contact with the earth—and we have three simple ways to welcome more movement, nature and joy into our everyday lives.

Bee-utiful-1Express Yourself

Dancing gives us a way to express feelings that aren’t always easy to put into words. A lively song can help us release some energy, while a slower rhythm can create a quiet moment to reflect.

Flowers have their own special language, too. Different colors, varieties and arrangements can communicate love, friendship, gratitude, sympathy or celebration. Whether you’re dancing around the house or choosing flowers for someone you care about, both offer a beautiful way to express what’s in your heart.

Reconnect With Nature

Dancing outdoors helps us notice the fresh air, sunshine and sounds of the world around us. Flowers bring that connection inside, filling our homes and workplaces with natural color, texture and life.

Sarah Gillespie recently joined WISH-TV’s Life.Style.Live! to talk about another way to connect with nature: grounding. Grounding involves making direct contact with the earth, such as walking barefoot through the grass, standing in the sand or resting your hands on the ground.

Sarah became curious about grounding after spending time near the beach in Florida. The experience inspired her to learn more about how connecting with the earth may support relaxation, lift our mood and ease feelings of anxiety.

Watch Sarah’s WISH-TV segment about grounding and connecting with the earth.

26M04-BLUE-RIDGE-HORIZON_1000~2Create a Calmer Moment

Movement can help us release tension and step away from the worries of the day. You don’t need dance lessons or a special routine—a favorite song and a few minutes to move are all it takes.

Flowers can create a peaceful pause, too. Arranging a bouquet, caring for plants or simply stopping to admire a bloom encourages us to slow down and notice the beauty right in front of us.

Grounding gives us another reason to step outside. Feeling the grass beneath your feet, the sunshine on your face or the soil in your hands can turn an ordinary moment into something a little more meaningful.

 

Brighten Your Mood

Dancing can make us feel energized, playful and positive. Flowers offer their own cheerful lift through beautiful colors, fresh fragrances and the simple reminder that something lovely is always growing.

Try playing one song that never fails to make you move, placing fresh flowers near your favorite chair or spending a few quiet minutes outside. Small moments of happiness don’t have to be complicated to make a difference.

Connect With Others

Dancing brings people together at weddings, parties, classes and family gatherings. Flowers help us connect, too. A bouquet can say “I’m thinking of you,” “Congratulations,” “Thank you” or simply “I’m here” when words don’t feel like enough.

Nature can also become something we enjoy together. Take a walk with a friend, work in the garden with someone you love or sit outside and enjoy what’s blooming. These little moments can help us feel closer to the people around us.

 

 

Make Room for a Little Joy

Dancing, flowers and grounding each invite us to be more present. They remind us to move, breathe, notice the beauty around us and reconnect—with ourselves, with the people we love and with the natural world.

So turn on a favorite song, step outside and take a moment to see what’s blooming. And when you’d like to bring a little more of nature’s beauty indoors, stop by Gillespie Florists or explore our fresh flowers online. We would love to help brighten your day!

Ready to bring more beauty and calm into your day? Visit our website to explore peaceful Zen designs, fresh green plants and our monthly floral specials. There’s always something beautiful blooming at Gillespie Florists!

Explore More Floral Inspiration

 

Topics: Benefits of Flowers, nature connection