The Flower Blog

The 4th of July is a time for celebration, filled with barbecues, fireworks, and festive gatherings. While it’s a fun and exciting day for us, it can be a stressful and even dangerous time for our furry friends. At Gilespie Florists, we care about all members of your family, including your beloved pets. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure your pets have a safe and enjoyable Independence Day!

🐾 4th of July Pet Safety Tips

1. Keep Pets Indoors: Fireworks can be terrifying for animals. The loud noises and bright flashes can cause anxiety and fear. Keep your pets indoors in a safe, quiet room where they feel comfortable. Close windows and curtains to muffle the sound of fireworks and play some calming music to help soothe them.

2. Update Identification: Make sure your pet’s ID tags and microchip information are up-to-date. In case your pet gets scared and runs off, proper identification will help reunite you more quickly.

3. Avoid Human Food: Barbecues are a staple of 4th of July celebrations, but many human foods can be harmful to pets. Keep alcoholic beverages, chocolate, grapes, onions, and any food with bones out of their reach. Stick to pet-safe treats to include them in the festivities.

4. Create a Safe Space: Set up a comfortable area for your pet with their favorite bed, toys, and blankets. This can be their refuge if they feel stressed or scared. You might also consider using a crate if that’s their safe space.

5. Exercise Beforehand: Take your dog for a long walk or engage in a good play session before the festivities begin. A tired pet is a relaxed pet, and they’ll be more likely to rest during the evening’s activities.

6. Avoid Fireworks and Sparklers: Never use fireworks or sparklers around pets. Even unused fireworks can contain toxic substances, and lit fireworks can cause severe injuries. It’s best to keep them far away from these dangers.

🎉 Pet-Friendly Celebration Ideas

Want to include your pets in the celebration? Here are some fun and safe ways to do so:

1. Pet-Friendly BBQ Treats: Make some special pet-safe treats. There are plenty of recipes online for dog-friendly “pupsicles” or cat-friendly snacks. Your pet will love being included in the holiday feast!

2. Patriotic Pet Accessories: Dress your pet in some festive, comfortable 4th of July gear. Think bandanas, collars, or lightweight t-shirts. Make sure they’re comfortable and not too tight or hot.

3. Quiet Time Activities: While you’re enjoying the festivities, give your pets something to keep them occupied. Puzzle toys, chew toys, and interactive feeders can provide a fun distraction.

🐶 Products for a Calm and Happy Pet

Check out these products to help your pets stay calm during the fireworks:

• Calming Treats and Supplements: Look for natural calming treats that can help reduce anxiety.
• Comfortable Pet Beds: A cozy bed can provide a safe retreat for your pet.
• Interactive Toys: Keep your pet occupied and distracted from the noise with engaging toys.
• Thundershirts: These snug-fitting garments can help alleviate anxiety by applying gentle pressure.

The 4th of July is a wonderful time to celebrate with friends and family, and that includes our pets. By taking a few precautions and planning ahead, you can ensure that your furry friends stay safe and happy during the festivities.

Shop Independence Day bouquets now

Easter is just around the corner, and what better way to welcome spring than by adorning our homes with vibrant hues and fragrant blooms? As your friendly neighborhood florist, we're here to send some floral inspiration your way and help you transform your space into a blooming Easter wonderland! Check out our tips and fun activities below for a wonderful Easter celebration. 

Easter Eggstravaganza Floral Arrangements

Let's start with the classics – Easter eggs! Incorporating colorful eggs into flower arrangements adds a whimsical touch any bouquet. Gather a mix of spring flowers like daisies, tulips, and hyacinths, and nestle dyed or plastic eggs among the blooms. It's a simple yet delightful way to capture the essence of Easter.

Bunny Buddies and Blooms

Get hopping into the spirit with adorable bunny-themed floral arrangements. Select a charming bunny figurine or plush toy and surround it with fresh greenery and pastel-colored flowers like roses, carnations, and lilacs to make a playful centerpiece.

Easter Basket Bouquets

Who says Easter baskets are just for kids? Create your own grown-up version by filling a rustic basket with an assortment of seasonal flowers and foliage. Add some decorative Easter eggs, ribbons, and maybe even some candy and favorite drink for good measure. 

Spring Garden Party Vibes

Take your Easter festivities outdoors and host a charming garden party surrounded by nature's beauty. Adorn your tables with fresh flower garlands, delicate floral wreaths, and potted plants. 

DIY Floral Crafts for Kids

Get the little ones involved in the Easter fun with some creative floral crafts. Set up a crafting station with colorful flowers, ribbons, and other craft supplies. Let their imaginations run wild as they design their own flower arrangements, Easter bonnets, or even flower petal art. It's a wonderful way to foster their creativity and appreciation for nature.

Gillespie Florists wishes everyone a blooming Easter filled with love, laughter, and plenty of petals!

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Flowers have long been a symbol of love and affection, making them a classic and timeless Valentine's Day gift. If you're looking to surprise your special someone, consider these creative and thoughtful ways to present flowers on Valentine's Day.

The Classic Bouquet Delivery💐:
Start with the timeless elegance of a classic bouquet delivery. Choose your loved one's favorite flowers or opt for an assortment of popular flowers like roses, lilies, and daisies. Have the flowers delivered to their workplace, home, or any location that will catch them by surprise, creating a moment of joy and admiration.

Floral Scavenger Hunt🔍:
If your Valentine is always seeking out adventure, turn the act of receiving flowers into a memorable experience by organizing a flower scavenger hunt. Leave clues leading them to different locations, where they will find a portion of the bouquet waiting for them. This not only adds an element of excitement but also builds anticipation as they discover each new bloom.

DIY Flower Arranging Date🌷🌼🌻:
Instead of presenting a pre-arranged bouquet, consider gifting a DIY flower arranging experience. Purchase an assortment of fresh loose flowers and spend quality time together arranging a beautiful bouquet. This personal touch adds a meaningful and creative element to the gift, and you get to enjoy the process together.

Flower Subscription📆:
Extend the joy of receiving flowers beyond Valentine's Day by gifting a floral subscription. Your loved one will receive fresh blooms regularly, keeping the romance alive throughout the year. This thoughtful and ongoing gesture ensures that they are reminded of your love long after the holiday has passed.

Flower Petal Pathway🌹👣:
Create a romantic pathway using flower petals leading to a surprise location. Whether it's a candlelit dinner, a cozy picnic, or a scenic view, the flower petal pathway adds a touch of enchantment to the celebration. It's a visual and aromatic feast that enhances the overall Valentine's Day experience.

This Valentine's Day, elevate the tradition of gifting flowers by adding a personal and creative touch. Whatever you choose, Gillespie Florists has the just what you need to make this Valentine's Day a blooming success.

Check out our Valentine's Day specials for more bouquet ideas. 

'Tis the season of giving, and what better way to spread holiday cheer than with the gift of nature's beauty? In this festive blog post, we'll explore the unique gifts that plants and flowers bring to the table. From classic elegance to vibrant charm, these treasures are sure to make your Christmas celebrations even more special. 

Poinsettias: The Classic Elegance: Poinsettias are the most popular plants of the Christmas season. Their vibrant red, green, and white hues instantly evoke the spirit of the season. Considered a symbol of prosperity and good cheer, poinsettias make for a timeless and thoughtful gift. With various sizes and color options available, you can choose the perfect poinsettia to brighten someone's holiday and home.

Christmas Cactus: A Delicate Surprise: For a unique and unexpected gift, look no further than the Christmas cactus. With its trailing branches and delicate blooms, this plant brings a touch of elegance to any space. The Christmas cactus is not only beautiful to look at, but it's also easy to care for, making it an ideal gift for both seasoned gardeners and those new to the world of plants. 

Centerpieces: A Table Set for Joy: Elevate your holiday table with the gift of a festive centerpiece. A centerpiece can add a touch of warmth and charm to any Christmas gathering. Consider gifting a beautifully crafted centerpiece to friends or family, bringing the joy of the season right to their dining table.

Wreaths: Welcoming the Season with Style: Wreaths are not just for the front door—they make exquisite gifts that symbolize the circle of giving and love. A wreath is a versatile and thoughtful present to help your loved ones adorn their homes with the spirit of the holidays.

No matter what your budget or style, we have a Christmas flower arrangement that is perfect for you.

Visit us in store or online to see our selection of Christmas flowers and arrangements. And don't forget our holiday sale coming up December 18-24th.

Thanksgiving isn’t just about the food on the table; it’s about connection, gratitude, and traditions that bring people together. This holiday offers an opportunity to pause, reflect, and appreciate the little and big things in life. So, as you prepare to celebrate this season, consider adding some new ways to fill your Thanksgiving with gratitude, joy, and meaningful moments.  

Eat and Be Merry:
Thanksgiving is synonymous with a delightful feast. Gather your loved ones around a table adorned with the rich hues of autumn, savor a delicious meal together and take time to enjoy shared stories and laughter.

Give Thanks:
Take the opportunity this Thanksgiving to express appreciation and gratitude. Go around the table and have everyone share something they're thankful for. This tradition can foster a sense of unity and warmth among everyone present.

Volunteer:
Thanksgiving is not just about indulgence; it's also about giving back. Volunteer at a local shelter, food bank, or community organization. Giving back not only spreads joy but also instills a profound sense of gratitude within oneself.

Get Crafty:
Engage in creative activities that reflect the spirit of the season. Encourage kids and adults alike to create DIY crafts or decorations. These activities can be both entertaining and a wonderful way to celebrate Thanksgiving. Check out this Good Housekeeping article for a list of easy Thanksgiving craft ideas. 

Enjoy Nature:
Take advantage of the beauty of the season. Whether it’s a walk in the crisp, autumn air, enjoying the changing colors of the leaves, or taking a hike to immerse in nature, Thanksgiving is an excellent time to appreciate the natural world around us.

However you celebrate, Gillespie Florists would like to wish you and your loved ones a wonderful Thanksgiving. 

Looking to spruce up your Thanksgiving table or send a gift to a friend or loved one? Gillespie Florists has a wide variety of Thanksgiving arrangements to suit all your needs. Check out our assortment of Thanksgiving Bouquets now!

As the leaves turn golden and the air takes on a crisp chill, we're thrilled to bring you a bewitching blend of floral enchantment. Halloween and Dia de los Muertos fall close together each year and are often lumped together. Let's explore some of the unique qualities of each of these holidays.

Halloween - Embrace the Eerie:
Halloween, a night of spookiness and playful frights, is all about embracing the eerie and letting your imagination run wild. At Gillespie Florists, we've crafted a bewitching collection of blooms that capture the spirit of Halloween. Create sinister centerpieces or boo-tiful bouquets for everyday decor or a costume party. 

Dia de los Muertos - Honoring Loved Ones:
Dia de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, is a beautiful Mexican tradition where families come together to honor their loved ones who have passed away. It's a celebration of life, love, and remembrance. Create an ofrenda (altar) that truly honors your ancestors with our breathtaking blooms.

At Gillespie Florists, we're here to help you celebrate both of these wonderful occasions with our stunning floral arrangements. Whether you're looking to add a touch of spookiness to your Halloween or a heartfelt tribute to your Dia de los Muertos festivities, our florists are ready to create something truly magical for you.

Visit our website or stop by our store today to explore our wide selection of enchanting blooms.

Upcoming Event:

Join us for Trick or Treat in store and get a free flower, candy and furbaby treats on 10/31/23 from 4-6PM.

Check out our assortment of Halloween arrangements

 Fall is a beautiful time of year, with its crisp air, changing leaves, and bountiful harvest. It's also a great time for flowers, with many varieties blooming in rich autumnal colors.

Here are our picks for our favorite fall flowers:

Mums: Mums, or chrysanthemums, are a classic fall flower that comes in a wide variety of colors, including red, orange, yellow, white, and purple. Mums are also very versatile and can be used in a variety of floral arrangements, from simple centerpieces to elaborate bouquets.

Sunflowers: Sunflowers are another classic fall flower that adds a touch of sunshine to any arrangement. Sunflowers are available in a variety of sizes, from small to giant.

Dahlias: Dahlias are a beautiful and versatile fall flower that comes in a wide variety of colors and shapes. Dahlias can be used in a variety of floral arrangements, including bouquets, centerpieces, and corsages.

Asters: Asters are a delicate fall flower that comes in a variety of colors, including white, purple, and pink. Asters can be used to add a touch of elegance to any floral arrangement.

Goldenrod: Goldenrod, or Solidago, is a native North American plant that produces bright yellow flowers in the fall. Goldenrod is often used to add a some bright yellow throughout a flower arrangement.


Fall flowers can be used to create arrangements for all sorts of occasions, including weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays. No matter what the occasion, fall flowers can add a touch of warmth and beauty to any setting. 

What are your favorite fall flowers? Check out our assortment of Fall Bouquets today!

As we enter back to school season, we thought we'd share some interesting things about the impact of plants and flowers in the classroom. 

Here are just a few of the benefits to having a little bit of nature in the classroom. 

• Improve air quality: Plants and flowers can help to remove toxins and allergens from the air, which can improve students' breathing and concentration. A study by NASA found that spider plants, English ivy, and peace lilies were particularly effective at removing pollutants from the air.
• Boost mood and productivity: Studies have shown that being around plants can reduce stress, anxiety, and fatigue, and can even improve creativity and productivity. A study by the University of Exeter found that students who had plants in their classrooms were more likely to report feeling relaxed and focused.
• Teach students about nature*: Plants and flowers can provide a hands-on learning opportunity for students to learn about different plants and flowers, their lifecycles, and how they interact with the environment. A study by the University of Illinois found that students who had plants in their classrooms were more likely to learn about and appreciate nature.
• Add beauty and interest to a classroom: Plants and flowers can brighten up a space and make it more inviting and stimulating for students. A study by the University of Texas found that students who had plants in their classrooms were more likely to report feeling positive about their learning environment.

If you are looking for a way to improve your classroom environment, consider adding some plants or flowers! When selecting plants and flowers, remember to choose plants that are easy to care for and are non-toxic to children. (Learn more about types of plants ideal for classrooms here.) Place them in an area with enough sunlight and rotate them regularly. Prune and water plants to keep them healthy and attractive.

*Gillespie Florists has a history of working with classrooms to provide flowers to students for hands-on experience in creating bouquets and working with flowers as well as the scientific side, getting up close and personal with how different flowers look through a microscope. 

We are offering Curbside Pickup for orders. Here is some helpful information to pick up the order and be on your way home as quickly as possible.

CALL AHEAD
Call ahead at 317.273.1100 and place an order for curbside pickup at our store.
Pay by phone using credit/debit card. Don't forget the card message for your order and we'll make sure it is included with your order!

ALLOW TIME FOR ORDER FULFILLMENT
Please allow at least 30 minutes between the time your order is placed to when it will be ready for pickup. Help us streamline the process by letting us know what time range you will be picking up your order. 

PICK-UP
When you come to our store please pull up to the main entrance. Have your order number ready (We'll provide you that information during order placement).
Call 317.273.1100 when you arrive! Our customer service rep will retrieve the order and bring it directly to your vehicle. Please have a space available for us to place your flowers and let us know where they should go! Your order will be wrapped and boxed for transportation.

SPECIAL NOTES
* Please remember to call us when you arrive at the main entrance. Our front doors will be locked so there is no way to enter the building to retrieve your order. We will bring it to you.

* If you do not have a credit/debit card we will accept cash however please notify us IN ADVANCE so we can be prepared with access to change, protective gloves, etc.

* Opt to receive your receipt via email (paperless/touchless). We will not share your information with outside sources.  

* Lastly, please be patient. We are all learning as we go and coping during these unprecedented times!

From everyday occasions to the most significant life events, we have been and will continue to be here for you. #FlowersForLife

Be safe and well,

Gillespie Florists
9255 W. 10th St.
Indianapolis, IN 46234
gillespieflorists.com
gillespieflorists@gmail.com

Business Hours:
Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm
Saturday 8am - 6pm
Sunday 11am - 3pm

Stay in touch via social media:

 “All you need is love. 
But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt.” 
― Charles M. Schulz

I agree with the great Charles M. Schulz, except let's make "now and then" more often. When you bite into your first Ghyslain Chocolate, you'll taste what I mean!

Wait a moment, we need to back up! Because before the bite comes the sight. Have you seen these beautiful works of art? The internet can only do so much for your senses. A digital picture is worth about 500 words; however when it comes to the absolute artistry of these handcrafted chocolates made in Union City, Indiana, well...one should view these beauties in person.  If the image below hasn't piqued your interest enough to grab keys and visit Gillespie Florists immediately then let me persuade you further with an ode to these exquisite works of art which my eyes long to behold forever but my mouth will only withhold these treasures for mere moments.

Banana Foster, Pistachio Amerana, Tahitian Vanilla, Biscottino Salted Caramel...I'm drooling right now. Literally drooling. As exotic and delicious as the titles are, what lies underneath will seal the deal with a marriage of flavors such as: white chocolate infused vanilla bean; Gianduja milk chocolate ganache with carmelized hazelnut; dark chocolate center with passion fruit blend caramel; orange marmalade, dark chocolate ganache infused with Grand Marnier extract and chocolate pearls...

Am I kidding you right now? No! This is no joke, friends. Ghyslain is the real deal when it comes to superb gourmet taste and handcrafted artisan flair. 

Oh the glory of just a mere visual sampling of these tasty treasures. Waiting to be admired and relished for the mastery in both taste and design. They are so breathtaking in sight you will not want to eat Ghyslain Chocolates. But you will and you won't be able to have just one. Trust me, you won't be sorry.

Go on, prove me wrong on this. Before proof can happen a visit to Gillespie Florists is in order where we have a grand selection of Ghyslain Chocolates. Better yet, give us a call and have them delivered with a delightful bouquet to someone you love. Maybe they will say "Thank you" by sharing. Or maybe you should just order an extra box for yourself. Yes, that would be best. Love is strong but I'm not sure it can withstand the sheer magnitude Ghyslain Chocolate experience (says the person who sampled the product and *forgot* to share). 

Say "I love you" "Just Because" or "Thinking of You" today and visit our website for all the flowers in your life!