The Flower Blog

 “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!

"The secret of getting ahead is getting started."
- Mark Twain

Getting started during the fall could mean going to college, beginning a first job and/or moving out on your own. Regardless, there is always change abound in the autumn months and a great time to start making plans to send best wishes and thoughtful care packages to travelers of the brave new world of college and life.

Have a young bird leaving the nest this year? Here are a handful of care package ideas for sending throughout the year to let them know they aren't far from your mind at any time. Thoughtful, functional, and sweet; these packages are sure to be a hit!

1. Hygiene on Hiatus?

Doesn't matter whether one is going for their first apartment, long time resident hall occupant, headed out of town for a few months; this package is full of forget-me-nots which might have been overlooked. Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, razors, favorite body lotion, loofah, roll-on perfume, etc. Perfect for travel and reminder that mom and dad are always looking out for their travelers. 

2. Under The Weather Watch

Oh yes there's many a "Get Well Soon" gift basket to send but what about the mornings they wake up and discover they are bedridden from a catastrophic cold? "Can't. leave. the. room. Send. for. backup. Call. my. mom." States away or just a trip down the block; You had the foresight of this occasion and helped your pride and joy during times of ailment by sending a "Sniffles" package before they needed it! Prepare for cold and flu with comforts of home in the form of cough drops, herbal tea, tissue pocket packs, a fun mug, chicken soup and more.  

3. Snack Attack!

You remember those days. Late night cram sessions for tests; finishing up art projects at 3.a.m. and the kitchen doesn't open for another 3 hours! All we need is alittle more sustanance and we can push through till dawn but don't want to leave our room. In the greatest hour of need, wouldn't it be great to have snacks on hand? Crackers, cookies, popcorn, pretzels, and the like are a prime pick for college bound people everywhere. Just think, your thoughtfulness and experience in the matter has saved the day. So go ahead and take credit for that successful test score; you helped them earn it.

4. Go Ahead, It's on Me!

First job, first apartment, first or last year at college, it's tough starting out on your own, remember? What better way to say "I love you; I empathsize with your situation" than with an all access gift card to anywhere! Need a break from countless hours studying for finals? Go to the movies! Is there a new knick knack or paint marker you want to have just because? Go get it! Relax, get that fancy flavored coffee topped off with whipped cream. Sky's the limit..or whatever amount was put on the gift card. Don't forget to dress up this thoughtful gift with candy kisses, huggable plush or in my case, a fresh set of gel pens. 

5. It's a Jolly Holiday with this Gift

Not going home for the holidays? Need extra love and attention in your new domicile or office? Send an ornament display tree at the beginning of the school year family photos attached to clips. As the year progresses add a few special holiday treats to your care packages such as spooky decor for Halloween, small ornaments and candy for Christmas; Sweetheart surprises for Valentine's Day; the possibilities are endless and you can find all sorts of gift goodies at our shop!

6. A Breath of Fresh Air, Literally

Last but not least, I'll throw in a planter as a suggestion. "A plant? That's not a package...besides, they can barely care for themselves!" True, but they will keep you company in your cubicle, apartment, dorm room, bedroom, etc. A bit of life and greenery while adding fresh clean oxygen into the dungeon of dirty socks and laundry bags on the brink of explosion. Another great green option is our terrariums, see our collection here! Stylish containers and plant design will dress up any room. Speaking of containers; there's another area where you can add a touch of creativity. Make your own; paint one up; you get the idea.

That's it, in a super-sized care-package worthy nutshell. There are so many fabulous ways we can send our love creatively. And it's not as much about what's in the package as much as it is what is in the message you are sending. The message of thoughtfulness, love, and having your young adult's back as they start out in college, the professional world, or on their own. Autumn is an exciting time of year. Let's get started with sending some love!

Want to see more gift basket ideas? Click here!

Visit our website for fantastic flowers and gifts for every occasion at gillespieflorists.com!