The Flower Blog

Keep Your Furry Friends Safe and Happy This 4th of July!

Posted by Tue, Jun 18, 2024 @ 03:48 PM

blog.gillespieflorists.comhubfs20230715_152752_0000The 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

 

Topics: Holidays, Seasonal, Gillespie Florists, Indianapolis, Shopping local, Flowers and gifts, Holiday Flowers, Pets, Dog, Independence Day, July 4th

Hop Into Easter: Decorating Tips and some Floral Fun

Posted by Fri, Mar 15, 2024 @ 12:28 PM

blog.gillespieflorists.comhubfs20230715_152752_0000Easter 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!

Shop all Easter now

 

Topics: Holidays, Seasonal, Gillespie Florists, Indianapolis, spring flowers, Easter, spring, Flowers and gifts, Holiday Flowers

Chill Out, Winter! 5 Fun Ways to Beat the Cold Weather Blues

Posted by Mon, Jan 15, 2024 @ 02:50 PM

20230715_152752_0000Brrr, winter's here, and while the temperatures may be dropping, our spirits don't have to! Say goodbye to the cold weather blues with these silly and unconventional ways to keep warm and have a blast. Grab your cozy blankets and let's turn the chill into thrills!

 

 

The Socks of Champions 🧦 Let's start from the ground up – literally! Pull out the most outrageously colorful and fuzzy socks you can find. The brighter, the better! Not only will your tootsies be toasty warm, but you'll also be spreading good vibes everywhere you go. Bonus points for mismatched socks – because who needs to conform to the sock establishment anyway?

Hot Chocolate Olympics ☕ Move over, regular hot chocolate – it's time for the Hot Chocolate Olympics! Experiment with different flavors, toppings, and even go wild with a marshmallow tower competition. Invite friends and family to join the fun, and may the best cup of cocoa win. It's a sweet way to warm up from the inside out!

DIY Blanket Fort Extravaganza 🏰 Why settle for a regular blanket when you can have a blanket fort palace? Channel your inner architect and build the coziest fort imaginable. Fill it with pillows, fairy lights, and your favorite snacks. Whether you're binge-watching a series or reading a good book, your blanket fort is sure to become your winter haven.

Dance Party Heating System 💃 Crank up the tunes and turn your living room into a dance floor! Not only will you be generating your own body heat, but you'll also have a blast doing it. Pick your favorite dance jams, gather the family or invite friends over, and dance away the winter chill. Who says exercise can't be a dance party?

Winter Wonderland Photo Scavenger Hunt 📷 Turn a chilly day into a picture-perfect adventure! Create a winter-themed photo scavenger hunt checklist and explore your neighborhood or a nearby park. Capture the beauty of frosty landscapes, snow-covered trees, or even adorable winter critters. Share your masterpieces on social media and turn your winter day into a virtual gallery.

❄️ Winter may be in full swing, but that doesn't mean we can't have a blast! Whether you're dancing the cold away or building a blanket fort, remember: the best way to beat the chill is with laughter, creativity, and a whole lot of warmth from the inside out! Stay cozy, friends!

 

Valentine's Day is Wednesday, February 14th. See below for some of our Valentine's Day specials!

 

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Topics: Holidays, Seasonal, Gillespie Florists, Indianapolis, Valentines Day flowers Indianapolis, Valentine's Day flowers, small business, Real Local Florist

Deck the Halls with Deals! The Sale Before CHRISTMAS is Here!

Posted by Thu, Dec 14, 2023 @ 03:57 PM

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Deck the Halls with Deals! The Sale Before CHRISTMAS is Here!

 

It's the most wonderful time of the year, and what better way to spread cheer than with amazing savings? Get ready to jingle all the way to our store because The Sale Before CHRISTMAS is upon us! From December 18th to 24th, it's your chance to score incredible deals on all your holiday wish list items and more.

Unwrap 25% off every corner of Christmas:

    • Deck the halls: Trim your tree and adorn your home with festive flair. All Christmas décor is 25% off, from sparkling ornaments to twinkling light up figurines.
    • Gifts that give joy: Shower your loved ones with delightful surprises. Any giftware, from cozy throws and charming trinkets to chic vases, is 25% off.
    • Cuddle up and cozy down: Make someone's winter extra warm and cuddly with our 25% off plush sale. Snuggle-worthy stuffed animals and throw blankets await!
    • Silk surprises: Stock up on artificial flowers that make life brighter, like silk Christmas centerpieces and outdoor wreaths, all at 25% off. Plus, treat yourself to cemetery saddles and cemetery cans to remember your loved ones.
    • Light the way, scent the air: Create a warm and inviting atmosphere with 25% off candles and other delightful home fragrance items.

But wait, there's more!

    • Don't forget the last-minute gifts: Everyday gift items are also 25% off, perfect for those unexpected stockings to fill or impromptu gift exchanges.
    • Holiday Cheer at Every Corner: This sale doesn't include fresh flowers and plants, but we have tons of festive décor and gift items to keep your holiday spirits high! Get ready to deck the halls and fill stockings with joy.
    • As is, with love: Serviced products (those requiring alterations or changes) are also excluded from the sale, but everything else is up for grabs!
    • Shop in-store for non-delivery delights: Unfortunately, sale items cannot be delivered, so come on down and soak up the holiday cheer while you shop!

Restrictions may apply, so visit our store for complete details and let our friendly staff answer any questions you might have. Don't miss your chance to deck the halls, stock up on gifts, and treat yourself to some holiday goodies at The Sale Before CHRISTMAS! We can't wait to see you there!

Call us at 317.273.1100 for more information and let the merry shopping begin!

Don't have time to come in and shop? No Worries! We got you covered! Shop online for delivery in the Indianapolis area and surrounding communities! We'll be accepting orders until Noon on December 24th for same day delivery!

 

Shop Christmas Bouquets

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Topics: Holidays, Seasonal, Shopping local, holiday deals, holiday, christmas traditions, informational, silk flowers, silk flowers indianapolis, silk flowers sale, Silk Arrangements, holiday traditions, Christmas wreaths, gift ideas for him, gift ideas, discounts, Christmas flowers, Holiday Flowers, fresh flowers, Christmas Gifts, Before Christmas, Christmas

Unwrapping Nature's Beauty

Posted by Tue, Dec 05, 2023 @ 03:48 PM

20230715_152752_0000'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. 

PoinsettiaPoinsettias: 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 CactusChristmas 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. 


CenterpieceCenterpieces: 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.


WreathWreaths: 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.

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Topics: Holidays, Seasonal, Gillespie Florists, Indianapolis, Shopping local, Real Local Florist, holiday, poinsettia, after Christmas sale, christmas traditions, Flowers and gifts, Christmas wreaths, Christmas flowers, Holiday Flowers, plants, Christmas Gifts, Before Christmas, Benefits of Plants, Benefits of Flowers

5 Wonderful Ways to Celebrate Thanksgiving

Posted by Thu, Nov 09, 2023 @ 10:27 AM

20230715_152752_0000 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!

 

Topics: Holidays, Seasonal, Gillespie Florists, Indianapolis, Flowers and gifts, Just because flowers, Thanksgiving, fall bouquets, fall season

Halloween and Dia de los Muertos

Posted by Thu, Oct 12, 2023 @ 05:29 PM

20230715_152752_0000 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.

 


www.realsimple.comthmbvWVDlAP2bZRp0OuWbsHv4acxbX8=1500x0filtersno_upscale()max_bytes(150000)strip_icc()pumpkin-carving-hacks-tips-2000-64e61e-1Halloween - 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. 

halloween-7481374_1280Dia 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.

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Check out our assortment of Halloween arrangements

 

Topics: Holidays, Seasonal, Gillespie Florists, Indianapolis, local florist, holiday, Flowers and gifts, Just because flowers, Trick or treat, Halloween flowers, fall flowers, fall bouquets, fall season

5 Favorite Fall Flowers

Posted by Thu, Sep 28, 2023 @ 04:44 PM

20230715_152752_0000  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!

 

Topics: Holidays, Seasonal, Gillespie Florists, Indianapolis, Flowers and gifts, Just because flowers, fall mums, fall flowers, Thanksgiving, fall bouquets, fall season

Top 4 Benefits of Plants and Flowers in the Classroom

Posted by Mon, Jul 17, 2023 @ 04:22 PM

20230715_152752_0000As 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. 

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Topics: Seasonal, Flowers and gifts, plants, Benefits of Plants, School

The Value of Roses

Posted by Sat, Jan 21, 2023 @ 05:13 PM

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Valentine's Day is just around the corner and we are working tirelessly to ensure that our shop is filled with stunning arrangements and delightful bouquets for you to choose from! Amongst all the beautiful flowers, the rose reigns supreme as the most popular choice. Revered as the favorite flower of Venus, the goddess of Love, roses are currently in high demand all over the world. However, this surge in popularity raises the question - why are roses so expensive during this time of year? It's a fascinating inquiry, and we have the answer ready for you!

Click the video to uncover the behind-the-scenes secrets of product pricing and how it impacts both our business and our valued customers.

 

One of the main factors contributing to the expensive price of roses during Valentine's Day is the lengthy growing period. It takes a full sixty days for a rose bush to produce a mature rose. To meet the high demand on Valentine's Day, growers have to make a difficult decision during the month of December - they cut back production of their current crop of roses by harvesting them early. This means that they have to discard a potential good crop in order to make room for the roses needed on Valentine's Day. It's a risky move, especially considering the unpredictable nature of inclement weather.

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Furthermore, growers face limitations due to the perishable nature of roses and the limited space they have available. They cannot stockpile roses because they would quickly wilt and become unsellable. Additionally, the added expense of heating during the winter and shortened daylight hours further contributes to the higher price of roses.

The grower ultimately sets the price for the roses, which is higher due to the dumping of the crops in December. This additional cost is then passed through each market level - from the grower, to the wholesaler, to the florist, and finally to the customer.

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Another factor impacting the cost of roses is transportation. Most roses are imported from countries like Ecuador, Colombia, and across the country in California. As the demand for roses increases, so does the need for cargo space. This leads to more vehicles on the road and in the air to transport the popular flower. The expenses continue to add up - from cutting back crops to accommodate Valentine's Day demand, to adding more vehicles, and spending more money on gas.

It's not just Valentine's Day that sees a high demand for roses in the new year. Events like the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, and the Tournament of Roses parade require a staggering amount of roses. The average float in the Rose Parade uses approximately 160,000 flowers, highlighting the immense popularity of roses.

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Now that you understand the factors behind the high price of roses, you may be wondering if it's worth buying them this year. At Gillespie's, we understand the cost concerns and offer a variety of alternatives to roses. Stargazer lilies, gerbera daisies, carnations, alstroemeria lilies, hydrangea - the options are endless! Our design staff has created stunning bouquets for Valentine's Day that are sure to thrill your loved one, with or without roses.

 Click below to see our specials for Valentine's Day this year!

Valentine's Day Flowers

Topics: Holidays, Seasonal, Valentine's Day flowers, Roses in Indianapolis