The Flower Blog

The Faces of Gillespie Florists: Meet Duane Martin

Posted by Sat, Oct 18, 2025 @ 12:13 PM

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🌸 The Faces of Gillespie Florists: Meet Duane Martin 🌸

If you’ve ever admired one of our show-stopping floral displays or designer’s choice arrangements, there’s a good chance Duane Martin had a hand in creating it. A member of the Gillespie Florists family since 2006, Duane brings both creativity and craftsmanship to everything he touches — and always with a dash of humor that keeps the shop smiling.

Favorite flower: Snapdragon
💐 Favorite designs: Set designs and high-style, designer’s choice arrangements
🎄 Favorite holiday to design for: Christmas
🚤 Outside the shop: You’ll often find Duane out on his pontoon, enjoying the water, or adding to his ever-growing collection of Christmas treasures.

DUANE Martin

 

 

Duane’s love for floral design began long before joining Gillespie. His journey started through 4-H, where he discovered the joy of arranging blooms and expressing himself through color and texture. By just 15 years old, Duane was running his own floral business — proof that passion and talent have always been at the heart of his work.

One of Duane’s most cherished moments at Gillespie came when he was given the honor of designing the flowers for his son’s wedding. It was a deeply meaningful experience — blending his artistry with family, and creating something beautiful that would be remembered for a lifetime.

Over the years, Duane’s dedication, experience, and creative eye have made him an invaluable part of our team. His attention to detail, love for design, and easygoing nature shine through in every arrangement he creates.

We’re so grateful for everything Duane brings to the Gillespie Florists family — from his stunning floral artistry to the laughter and light he shares with everyone around him. 🌷

 

 

At Gillespie Florists, we’re proud to have such talented and passionate designers like Duane bringing your floral visions to life every day. Stay tuned for more stories and introductions in our Faces of Gillespie Florists series — where we shine a little light on the amazing people who make our family shop bloom! 🌼

Want to read more about our Team Members?

Click a name here:  SARAH  TYLER   KAYLEIGH

 

 

 

Topics: fresh flowers, family florist, floral design

The Faces of Gillespie Florists: Meet Kayleigh Wheeler

Posted by Thu, Oct 16, 2025 @ 10:31 PM

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Meet Kayleigh: One of the Creative Minds Behind Our Flowers

Ever wonder who’s behind some of the beautiful arrangements at Gillespie Florists? Today we’re introducing you to Kayleigh Wheeler — one of our talented designers and wedding specialists!

Kayleigh’s journey into floristry is a story of passion and persistence. She’s been part of the Gillespie family for a year and a half, but her love for flowers began back in 2016. Starting out in customer service, she quickly became captivated by the design process. Always eager to learn, she asked the designers around her to teach her the craft. That determination paid off, and by 2023, Kayleigh was designing full-time!

KAYLEIGH WHEELER

🌟 Kayleigh’s Favorites

  • Flower: Dahlia

  • Designs: Weddings & anything “weird or unique” ✨

  • Holiday to design for: Mother’s Day

  • Arrangement on our website:
    Autumn Illumination

When asked what she loves most about working at Gillespie, Kayleigh shared:

“The creative liberty and the priority of family.”






💡 A Memorable Moment

One moment that stands out for Kayleigh happened after she led a DIY flower class. A student told her the experience gave her the confidence to design flowers for her daughter’s baby shower. Knowing she helped inspire someone’s creativity left a lasting impression — and moments like these are what make her work so meaningful.

📚 Outside the Shop

When Kayleigh isn’t bringing floral visions to life, she’s usually immersed in one of her other passions. She’s an avid reader (around 100 books a year 🤯), a writer, painter, and even a basketball enthusiast.

We’re incredibly lucky to have Kayleigh’s creativity, kindness, and unique vision as part of the Gillespie team. She helps us bring beauty and heart to so many of your special moments. 💕

Want to read more about our Team Members?

Click a name here:  SARAH  TYLER


 

Topics: Wedding flowers, weddings indianapolis, DIY Wedding flowers

October Birth Month Flowers: Marigold & Cosmos

Posted by Sun, Oct 12, 2025 @ 03:33 PM

KSBADGE_25-02October sky never looked more charming nor the sublime leaves of the trees so graceful.
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October is the crown jewel of autumn — a season of cozy sweaters, crisp air, and golden light filtering through the trees. As we savor the beauty of falling leaves and the excitement of upcoming holidays, it’s also the perfect time to celebrate October birthdays!

Every month has its signature blooms, and October’s birth flowers are Marigold and Cosmos — two vibrant favorites that capture the essence of fall. Let’s take a closer look at these autumn beauties.

 

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Marigold: A Flame in Bloom

With their fiery orange, yellow, and gold petals, Marigolds practically glow in autumn sunlight. They symbolize creativity, warmth, and determination — fitting traits for those born in October. In some cultures, marigolds are known as “the herb of the sun,” representing light that never fades, even as the days grow shorter.

Marigolds also carry a sense of celebration and remembrance, making them perfect for both joyful birthdays and honoring loved ones during the season’s reflective moments.

 

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Cosmos: The Flower of Harmony

Graceful and delicate, Cosmos offer a softer side of October. Their balanced, symmetrical petals inspired the name “Cosmos,” meaning harmony and order in Greek. These blooms symbolize peace, balance, and love, bringing a touch of calm to autumn’s vibrant energy.

Available in lovely shades of pink, white, and deep burgundy, Cosmos add a light, romantic charm to any bouquet or fall arrangement.

Celebrate October with Gillespie Florists

Together, Marigold and Cosmos represent the perfect balance of boldness and beauty — just like October itself. Whether you’re celebrating a special birthday, decorating your home for fall, or surprising someone “just because,” these blooms are a wonderful way to capture the season’s spirit.

At Gillespie Florists, we love bringing the colors of autumn to life. From cheerful birthday bouquets to lush fall centerpieces, our designers can help you find the perfect arrangement for any occasion.

🍂 Stop by our shop or browse our fall collection online to discover how Marigolds, Cosmos, and other seasonal favorites can make your October even more beautiful.

 

 

 

Topics: birthday, fall bouquets, october, birth month flower

Halloween Terrarium Design Class 10/18/25

Posted by Mon, Sep 22, 2025 @ 08:27 PM

DellaBadgeTag_2016Dive into the spooky season at our Halloween Terrarium Workshop!

 

 

Join us at Gillespie Florists for a hauntingly good time where you'll create your own miniature, macabre world of plants. Led by one of our expert designers, you'll learn all the tips and tricks for creating a beautiful and eerie terrarium. This class is perfect for everyone, from beginners to seasoned plant lovers!

 

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What You Need to Know:

When: Saturday, October 18th, 4 PM

Where: 9255 W 10th St, Indianapolis 46234

Cost: $50 per person

What's Included: Expert-led, personalized instruction All materials: a container, a variety of plants, and accessories

Upgrades: Want to make your terrarium even more unique? We'll have upgraded, spooky accessories available for an additional fee.

Ages: This class is for participants 18 and older.

Ready to Join? To secure your spot, click below to sign up!

Sign Up Now!

Be sure to select October 18th as your pickup day and 4 PM as your pickup time during checkout.

We can't wait to see what spine-chilling creations you come up with!

Topics: design classes, informational, DIY, DIY Flowers, Teacher, Design Class

Create a Spooky Masterpiece with Us!

Posted by Sat, Sep 13, 2025 @ 03:52 PM

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This Halloween, get into the spirit with a hands-on floral design class at Gillespie Florists. Whether you love DIY projects, fresh flowers, or all things spooky, this is the perfect opportunity to create a stunning arrangement for your home.

What You'll Learn

Join our expert designer, Sheila Wise, for a fun 1-2 hour session where you'll learn the secrets of floral design. Sheila, with decades of experience, will guide you step-by-step as you create a beautiful Halloween-themed bouquet in a vase, basket, or container. You'll even learn how to create your own spider webs to give your masterpiece a truly festive touch!

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Class Details

 

  • When: Wednesday, October 1st, at 6:00 PM

  • Where: 9255 W 10th St, Indianapolis, IN 46234

  • Cost: $50 per person

  • Ages: Must be 18 or older due to the use of sharp instruments.

  • Includes: All materials, including your container, fresh flowers, spider webs, and Halloween accessories. Extra accessories will be available for purchase.

 

Why Join Us?

 

Don't worry if you're a beginner! Sheila will provide personalized instruction and share her expert tips to help you design a beautiful arrangement you'll be proud to take home. Our classes have a limited size to ensure everyone gets the one-on-one attention they need. Grab a friend and make a night of it—it's a fun and creative way to celebrate the season!

Have questions? Give us a call at 317-273-1100. We can't wait to see you there!

 

Sign Up Now!

Topics: Gillespie Florists, Indianapolis, design classes, informational, educational, DIY, DIY Flowers, Design onsite, flowersforlife, workshop, 10th and Raceway, Design Class

The Faces of Gillespie Florists: Tyler Dye

Posted by Sun, Sep 07, 2025 @ 09:03 AM

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The Faces of Gillespie Florists: Meet Tyler Dye

We’re excited to introduce you to one of the people who helps keep Gillespie Florists blooming — Tyler Dye, our Treasurer and proud 5th-generation family member working in the shop!

Tyler has practically grown up here. He started helping out when he was just 10 years old, and over the past decade, he’s done a little bit of everything — from office work and maintenance projects to customer service and flower deliveries. If there’s a job to be done, chances are Tyler has had a hand in it!

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🌸 Favorite Flower: Gerbera Daisies
🌸 Favorite Designs: Wedding setups + funeral tributes
🌸 Hobbies: Fishing, gardening, cruising, working on his truck, and caring for his tropical fish
🌸 Favorite Memory: Installing lights in the shop with his grandpa — a moment he’ll never forget
🌸 Favorite Holiday to Work: Valentine’s Day (he loves the exciting, whirlwind energy!)
🌸 Favorite Arrangement on Our Website: Pickup truck arrangements — fun, unique, and always a customer favorite (link in comments!)

When we asked Tyler what he enjoys most about working here, he said:
“I really enjoy working alongside everyone – we have a really special staff group. I love what I do and the opportunity to provide flowers during both joyful and difficult times. I’m proud to be working alongside my mom as a 5th generation owner!”

We couldn’t be happier to have Tyler’s passion, hard work, and heart as part of our Gillespie Florists family. Next time you stop in or order an arrangement, you’ll know a little more about one of the friendly faces making it all happen.

 

Learn more about the Faces of Gillespie Florists - Click Here

 


Topics: Gillespie Florists, family florist

Plant Terrarium Design Class - August 18th - 6PM

Posted by Wed, Aug 06, 2025 @ 08:00 AM

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Plant Terrarium Design Class - August 18th - 6PM

Unleash your inner gardener at our terrarium workshop!

Ready to cultivate your creativity and add a lush touch to your living space? We invite you to immerse yourself in the art of terrarium design with us at Gillespie Florists during our upcoming workshop on Monday, August 18th, at 6 PM. This event is designed as both an educational experience and a relaxing evening out—no prior gardening experience required!

As you enter our welcoming workshop space, you’ll be greeted by fellow plant enthusiasts, fostering a sense of community and shared inspiration. Our seasoned floral designer will begin by walking you through the basics of terrarium construction: selecting the right container, understanding drainage and layering, and choosing compatible plant varieties. You’ll discover how the right combination of soil, stones, charcoal, and moss creates a thriving ecosystem in miniature.

Each participant receives all the materials needed: a clear glass container, a curated assortment of healthy plants, decorative stones, moss, and essential accessories. For those eager to take things even further, browse our collection of exclusive upgrade accessories available for purchase during the class—think whimsical figurines, colorful sand, or seasonal accents. These touches allow you to personalize your terrarium and make it uniquely yours, whether you’re drawn to sleek modernity or playful woodland themes.

Throughout the class, you’ll gain expert insights not just on planting, but also on ongoing care and maintenance. Learn watering schedules, sunlight requirements, and troubleshooting common issues so your creation thrives long after the workshop ends. Our team is here to answer all your questions, making sure you leave with a finished piece and the confidence to grow your green thumb at home.

This workshop is more than just a crafting evening; it’s a chance to unwind, connect, and take pride in a living work of art designed by you. Whether you want to enhance your workspace, bring life to a side table, or gift your finished creation to someone special, you’ll walk away feeling empowered, recharged, and newly inspired by the world of plants.

Spaces are limited! Gather a friend or come solo and enjoy an evening filled with creativity, expert guidance, and lots of plant love. Don’t forget to secure your spot—just CLICK HERE, select August 18th as your pickup day, and 5:30 PM as your pickup time during checkout. We can’t wait to see your unique terrarium creation come to life!

 

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What You Need to Know

 

  • When: Monday, August 18th, 6 PM

  • Where: 9255 W 10th St, Indianapolis 46234

  • Cost: $50 per person

  • What's Included:

    • Expert-led, personalized instruction

    • All materials: a container, a variety of plants, and accessories

  • Upgrades: Want to make your terrarium even more unique? We'll have upgraded accessories available for an additional fee.

  • Ages: This class is for participants 18 and older.

 

Ready to Join?

To secure your spot, simply CLICK HERE and select August 18th as your pickup day and 5:30 PM as your pickup time during checkout. We can't wait to see what you create!

 

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terrarium filled with plants

 

 

Topics: DIY, DIY Flowers, Design Class

Navigating the Roundabout Construction!

Posted by Mon, Jul 28, 2025 @ 10:00 AM

              

 

 

Heads up, flower fans! Our intersection is getting a fantastic upgrade with a new roundabout installation scheduled to begin on or after August 1st and expected to be completed by November 15th. While this means some changes to your usual route, we want to assure you that Gillespie Florists will be OPEN FOR BUSINESS throughout the entire project!

We understand construction can be a bit tricky, so here's what you need to know:

  • We're Open & Accessible: Both of our parking lot entrances will remain accessible. There will be temporary, periodic closures to individual entrances, but never simultaneously, so you'll always have a way in!

  • Navigating the Closures:

    • No Access From the West or North: If you're coming from the west (via 10th Street traveling east from Ronald Reagan Pkwy) or from the north (via Raceway Road traveling south from 21st Street), the intersection will be closed.

    • Accessing Our Southwest Entrance: Please use northbound Raceway Road (traveling north from Rockville Road).

    • Accessing Our Northeast Entrance: Please use westbound 10th Street (traveling west from Country Club Road).

  • "Road Closed" Barricades: You'll see "Road Closed 1 Mile Ahead" barricades at the intersections of Country Club Road and 10th Street, and Raceway Road and Rockville Road. Please note: Traffic is permitted past these barricades to gain access to Gillespie Florists (they will say "open to local traffic").

  • During Construction: If one of our entrances is temporarily blocked, all traffic will be directed to utilize the alternate entrance.

We'll be using our social media, email, text messaging, plus local and in-store signage to keep you updated with the latest access information.

Questions or Need Help? Don't hesitate to reach out!

 

Topics: Gillespie Florists, Indianapolis, Shopping local, local florist, roundabout, 10th and Raceway, construction

GIRLS' DAY OUT DIY FLORAL DESIGN CLASS

Posted by Sat, Jul 19, 2025 @ 04:25 PM

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Celebrate National Girlfriends Day on August 1st with our Girls' Day Out! DIY Floral Design Class—bring your best friend for a fun and creative evening!

Join us at Gillespie Florists for a hands-on workshop where you’ll design a beautiful floral arrangement, guided by one of our expert designers. Perfect for all skill levels, you’ll learn essential techniques to craft a display you’ll love at home or give as a gift.

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What You'll Experience:

Expert Guidance: Our talented designer will offer detailed, step-by-step guidance, ensuring you feel assured and accomplished in crafting your arrangement.

Personalized Design: You'll have the thrilling chance to select your own container, allowing you to customize your creation to reflect your personal style and preferences.

Fresh and Fragrant Blooms:
We will supply a stunning array of fresh, seasonal flowers for you to work with, guaranteeing a lively and striking final arrangement.


Learn Essential Techniques
: Beyond simply arranging flowers, you'll acquire valuable knowledge and techniques in floral design that you can apply to future projects.


Take Home Your Masterpiece:
By the end of the workshop, you'll depart with a beautiful, handcrafted floral arrangement that you can proudly display.

Workshop Details:

  • Date: Friday, August 1st
  • Time: 6:00 PM
  • Location: Gillespie Florists, 9255 W 10th St. Indianapolis, IN 46234

Secure Your Spot Today!

Spaces for this limited workshop are filling up quickly, so don't miss your chance to participate! To purchase your slot online, please follow these simple instructions:

  1. Navigate to our website on the and select "Gillespie Florists & Flower Delivery" under the "In Store Pickup" options.
  2. Choose August 1st, 2025 as your "Pick-Up Date."
  3. Select 6PM as your pick-up time.
  4. Continue through the checkout process to finalize your registration.

Important Information:

Please be aware that due to the use of sharp tools during the floral design process, all participants must be 18 years of age or older.

Have Questions?

If you have any questions about the workshop or the registration process, please don't hesitate to call us at 317-273-1100.

Don't miss this wonderful opportunity to create a Red, White and Blue arrangement with the guidance of the experts at Gillespie Florists. Sign up today and get ready to bloom!

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP TODAY!

 

**SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING CONSTRUCTION**

There will be NO ACCESS to Gillespie Florists from the West (via 10th Street travelling East from Ronald Reagan Parkway) or from the North (via Raceway Road travelling South from 21st Street). 

Access to our Southwest entrance will be from Northbound Raceway Road (travelling North from Rockville Road). Access to our Northeast entrance will be from Westbound 10th Street (travelling West from Country Club Road). There will be barricades present at the intersection of Country Club Road and 10th Street and the intersection of Raceway Road and Rockville Road. These barricades will state that the road is closed one mile ahead and that only local traffic is permitted. Vehicle traffic IS permitted past these barricaded intersections to gain access to Gillespie Florists. BOTH of our entrances are accessible BEFORE the actual closure of the intersection at West 10th Street and Raceway Road. 

Topics: Flowers and gifts, DIY, DIY Flowers

The Faces of Gillespie Florists - Sarah Gillespie

Posted by Mon, Jun 23, 2025 @ 01:56 PM

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🌸 The Faces of Gillespie Florists 🌸
 
 
 
Meet Sarah Gillespie – President of Gillespie Florists, life-long team member, and heart of our floral family! 💐
 
Sarah has worked at Gillespie Florists all her life and has been full-time for 24 years! Her favorite part of the job? Designing bridal bouquets. “I love being part of the start of a new family,” she shares with a smile.
 
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When it comes to flowers, Sarah’s favorites are full of memories and meaning:
 
💗 Peonies – in memory of her mom’s mom
🌸 Alstroemeria and African Violets – reminding her of her dad’s mom
🌺 Anthuriums & Tropical Flowers – a tribute to her mom
💜 Lisianthus – simple, unique, and beautiful
 
Sarah says the best part of working at Gillespie is the people:
“I love my Gillespie Family! We succeed, fail, laugh, cry, work incredibly hard, and are silly – just like a close-knit family.”
 
Her favorite time of year at the shop? 🎄Christmas! The scent of fresh-cut pine fills the air and brings the season to life.
 
Sarah’s go-to arrangement on our website? Check out "Pastel Charm" – a soft, cheerful bouquet with a color combo she absolutely loves!
 
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Outside of work, Sarah finds joy in the simple things: relaxing with her husband and kids, singing in her church choir, tending to her two fish tanks, and hanging out with her cat, Fred. 🐈
 
She lives by a beautiful motto:
“I believe in a life of service to others. Whether that be at work, at home, or in the community, serving others makes my heart full.”
Sarah's favorite Gillespie memory:
 
The Great Cherub Massacre of 2004:
 
"At that time, Gillespie Florists consisted of 6 locations in 2 counties. I was dropping off supplies from our satellite stores on a Sunday afternoon after hours. It was raining and I was rushing through the store with my raincoat on as I was just planning to be in and out quickly. The cinch on my coat caught on the metal frame of 6 foot by 4 foot glass display and pulled down the whole structure! The display consisted of glass shelves featuring porcelain angels and cherubs, which came crashing down- smashed and shattered everywhere. As I turned around to view the carnage, I saw a cherub head rolling across the carpet. At that moment, the whole incident was horrifying but now I love to tell the story when one of my co-workers accidentally breaks something- I always let my co-workers know that they have to break a lot more product to top the Great Cherub Massacre of 2004." - Sarah
 
💖 Join us in celebrating Sarah – a shining example of the heart and soul behind Gillespie Florists.
 
Special Thanks to Heather Collie Schmiedicke for interviewing Sarah and collecting info for this wonderful post!
 
 
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Topics: design classes, DIY, Independence Day, July 4th