The Flower Blog

December Birth Month Flowers: Paperwhite Narcissus & Holly

Posted by Sat, Nov 29, 2025 @ 08:39 PM

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December babies get a beautiful duo of birth flowers! This month is all about the bright, cheerful Paperwhite Narcissus and the festive, good-luck-bringing Holly. One brings soft winter elegance, the other brings classic holiday charm—and together, they’re the perfect pair to celebrate the season.

 

And great news: we carry fresh holly right here at Gillespie Florists for arrangements, decorating, gifting, and all your holly-jolly floral needs!

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Paperwhite Narcissus

Delicate, fragrant, and absolutely glowing against the winter chill, Paperwhite Narcissus is the daffodil’s winter-loving cousin. While they prefer to stay cozy indoors, their snowy white blooms bring instant brightness to any space.

Symbolism:
Renewal
New Beginnings
Hope
Pure Wishes

Why We Love It: Paperwhites bloom right when we need a little lift—adding soft fragrance and fresh beauty during the darkest days of the year.

Fun Floral Note: They’re known for blooming indoors all winter long, making them a long-time favorite for holiday décor and seasonal gifting.

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Holly

Nothing says “December” quite like Holly! With glossy evergreen leaves and bold red berries, this classic winter plant has been spreading good cheer for centuries.

Symbolism:
Protection
Good Fortune
Peace
Happiness

Why We Love It: Holly brings instant festive flair—whether it’s tucked into a wreath, added to an arrangement, or styled on its own.

Fun Floral Note: From ancient solstice celebrations to modern holiday traditions, holly has always been a symbol of light, life, and seasonal joy.

 

 

A Perfect Winter Pair

Together, Narcissus and Holly capture everything we love about December: hope, beauty, celebration, and a touch of holiday sparkle. Whether you’re giving a gift to a December birthday, decorating your home, or looking for something meaningful for the season, this duo brings all the winter magic.

 

Tap here to see our birthday bouquet selections!

 

 

 

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Topics: birthday, fresh flowers, birth month flower

Our Favorite Flowers for Christmas Arrangements

Posted by Sat, Nov 29, 2025 @ 06:03 PM

KSBADGE_25-02The holiday season is one of the most magical times of the year at Gillespie Florists. Our design room fills with the scent of evergreens, the sparkle of holiday ribbon, and buckets of beautiful seasonal blooms just waiting to be turned into something special. Christmas flowers have a warmth, charm, and festive spirit all their own — and today, we’re sharing the top stems our designers reach for when creating holiday magic.

 

Whether you love traditional Christmas colors or a more modern winter look, these are the flowers and greens that make our arrangements shine all season long.

🌹 Red & White Roses

Roses are timeless for a reason. Red roses bring rich holiday warmth, while white roses lend a soft, snowy elegance to winter designs. Paired with pine, cedar, berries, or gold accents, roses are the perfect blend of festive and refined.

🌲 Fresh Evergreens (Pine, Fir, Cedar)

Nothing says “Christmas is here!” quite like the fragrance of winter greens. These holiday staples add fullness, movement, and natural texture to nearly every seasonal design. They form the lush backdrop that makes Christmas bouquets feel cozy, classic, and welcoming.

🍒 Hypericum Berries & Seasonal Berries

Looking for instant holiday cheer? Berries do the trick. Red hypericum berries, ilex berries, and other seasonal varieties add bright pops of color and a festive, textured look. They pair beautifully with roses, mums, and holiday greens — making every arrangement feel merry and full of life.

🌼 Chrysanthemums (Mums)

Reliable, long-lasting, and available in gorgeous holiday hues, mums are a designer favorite. We use red, white, green, and sometimes bi-color varieties to add full, plush texture to arrangements. They complement everything from classic Christmas styles to more modern winter designs.

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🌺 Carnations

Carnations shine during the holidays thanks to their ruffled petals, vibrant colors, and incredible durability. Red, white, and green varieties blend seamlessly into festive arrangements and stand up beautifully through days of decorating, gifting, and celebrating.

🌿 Holly & Variegated Greens

When we want that classic “Christmas card” feel, holly leaves and berries are our go-to. Paired with variegated greens like pittosporum or festive textures like seeded eucalyptus, they bring brightness and holiday charm to any design.

⭐ Alstroemeria

Alstroemeria adds delicate beauty and soft texture to Christmas arrangements. In white and red, it complements roses and mums perfectly, bringing depth and movement to bouquets and centerpieces alike.

🌺 Poinsettias (Customer-Favorite Plants!)

While we don’t often use poinsettias inside vase arrangements, we can’t talk about Christmas flowers without mentioning the holiday icon. Poinsettias remain one of our bestselling Christmas plants — available in classic red, pure white, pink, and marbled varieties. Perfect for gifting and holiday décor!

🎁 Bring Home the Holiday Magic

Whether you’re decorating your home, sending a seasonal surprise, or picking up a festive centerpiece, our designers love helping you find the perfect Christmas blooms. Stop by the shop or browse our holiday collection online — there’s a little bit of Christmas magic in every arrangement.

 

Tap here to shop our holiday selections today!

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Topics: Indianapolis, Christmas flowers, Christmas

Happy Holidays DIY Floral Design Classes - December 13th & 17th

Posted by Wed, Nov 26, 2025 @ 06:28 PM

KSBADGE_25-02🎄 Holiday DIY Floral Design Classes at Gillespie Florists
Create festive magic this season with our Christmas-themed DIY Floral Design Classes! Whether you're decking the halls, planning a cozy holiday gathering, or just looking for a joyful creative escape, these hands-on workshops are the perfect way to get into the spirit of the season.

 

✨ What You’ll Learn
Join our talented designers for a merry and inspiring 1–2 hour session where you’ll learn the art of holiday floral design. With expert guidance and all materials provided, you’ll create your very own Christmas centerpiece featuring winter greenery, seasonal blooms, and festive accents like berries, ornaments, and ribbon. You’ll head home with a beautiful arrangement ready to brighten your table—or gift to someone special!

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🌟 Class Details

✨ Saturday, December 13th at 4:00 PM
Lead Designer: Kayleigh

✨ Wednesday, December 17th at 6:00 PM
Lead Designer: Sheila Wise

📍 Location: Gillespie Florists — 9255 W 10th St, Indianapolis, IN 46234
💐 Cost: $50 per person
🔪 Ages: 18 and older (due to the use of sharp instruments)
🎁 Includes: Fresh seasonal flowers, winter greens, decorative holiday accents, and your choice of vase or container. Additional accessories available for purchase.

💎 Luxury Upgrade
Want to make your holiday design even more magical? Choose a Single or Double Luxury Flower Upgrade to add premium blooms such as lilies, roses, or other seasonal favorites. Our lead designer will curate the perfect selection to elevate your arrangement.

🎅 Why Join Us?
No experience needed! Our friendly, skilled designers will guide you step-by-step to create a stunning Christmas arrangement. Enjoy a relaxed, festive atmosphere with limited class sizes to ensure personalized instruction. Bring a friend, sip something warm, and spend an afternoon or evening celebrating the season with creativity and cheer.

📞 Questions? Call 317-273-1100 — we can’t wait to celebrate the holidays with you!

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR SATURDAY 12/13 @ 4PM

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR WEDNESDAY 12/17 @ 6PM

 
 
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Topics: DIY, DIY Flowers, Christmas flowers, Holiday Flowers

November Birth Month Flowers: Chrysanthemums & Peonies

Posted by Sun, Nov 16, 2025 @ 11:51 AM

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November Birth Flowers: Chrysanthemums & Peonies

November brings two beautiful birth flowers that carry rich symbolism and seasonal charm: the cheerful chrysanthemum and the romantic peony. Whether you're celebrating a November birthday or simply love learning the stories behind your favorite blooms, these flowers offer meaning, tradition, and timeless beauty.

Chrysanthemum: November’s Classic Bloom

Chrysanthemums—better known as “mums”—are the official November birth flower and a fall staple in floral design. With their long vase life, wide range of shapes, and vibrant colors, mums bring warmth and brightness to any arrangement.

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Symbolism:

  • Longevity

  • Optimism

  • Joy 

Color Meanings:

  • Red: Love, passion

  • Yellow: Joy, celebration

  • White: Honesty, loyalty

  • Green: Good luck, renewal

  • Purple: Thoughtfulness

  • Pink: Friendship, affection

Celebrated across cultures and widely loved in the U.S., chrysanthemums truly earn their nickname: Queen of Fall Flowers.

Peony: November’s Lesser-Known Birth Flower

Peonies may surprise some as a November birth flower, but their beauty and symbolism make them a meaningful choice for November celebrations. With soft, full petals and lush texture, peonies bring elegance to bouquets year-round.

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Symbolism:

  • Love & affection

  • Happiness & prosperity

  • Honor

  • Happy marriage

  • Traditional flower for a 12th anniversary

Color Meanings:

  • Red: Passion, respect

  • Pink: Romance, beauty, friendship

  • White: Gentleness, apologies

  • Yellow: Hope, new beginnings

From ancient history to wedding traditions, peonies are cherished for their beauty and heartfelt symbolism. (Pet-safe note: keep peonies away from curious cats and dogs.)

Celebrate With Meaningful Blooms

Whether you choose the bright cheer of chrysanthemums or the soft elegance of peonies, November’s birth flowers make thoughtful gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, and seasonal arrangements. Our designers at Gillespie Florists are always here to help you create something meaningful and memorable.

CLICK HERE TO SHOP BIRTHDAY FLOWERS!

 

 

 

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Topics: birthday, fresh flowers, birth month flower

Upcoming Resin Classes at Gillespie Florists - Nov 16th & Nov 30th

Posted by Sat, Nov 08, 2025 @ 09:18 AM

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Two Chances to Get Creative — November Resin Workshops at Gillespie Florists! 

We’ve got not one, but two resin art classes coming up this month at Gillespie Florists — and you won’t want to miss them!

Our last UV Resin Workshop on October 30th was an absolute blast. Between the beautiful pressed flowers, the laughter, and all the creativity flowing, everyone left with a gorgeous handmade piece and a big smile. If you didn’t get to join us then, now’s your chance! Our instructor, Heather Schmiedicke, is back with two hands-on resin workshops in November, each offering a fun and creative experience with dried flowers, color, and sparkle.

Whether you’re brand new to resin art or already love crafting, these classes are the perfect way to unwind, get creative, and make something beautiful to take home.

🎄 Sunday, November 16th at 3:30 PM — Epoxy Resin Ornament Workshop

Get into the holiday spirit with this festive Epoxy Resin Workshop! You’ll create a beautiful ornament filled with dried flowers and decorative accents, perfect for your Christmas tree or as a heartfelt handmade gift.

Heather will guide you step-by-step through the process of mixing, pouring, and designing your ornament. Choose your own floral combinations and color palette to make something uniquely yours — no two ornaments will look alike!

What to Expect:
• Learn the basics of epoxy resin in a relaxed, creative setting
• Choose from a variety of ornament shapes and floral accents
• All materials provided — no prior experience necessary
• Create a one-of-a-kind holiday keepsake or thoughtful gift

Workshop Details:
🕒 Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
🎨 Ages 15+
📍 In-person at Gillespie Florists
🚪 Doors open at 3:15 PM
👟 We will be standing for the duration of the class — please wear comfortable shoes!

 

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💎 Sunday, November 30th at 3:30 PM — UV Resin Pendant or Keychain Workshop

If you loved the idea of wearable art, this one’s for you! In this UV Resin Workshop, you’ll design your own custom pendant, keychain, or zipper pull using pressed flowers, colorful embellishments, and crystal-clear UV resin.

Heather will share her tips and techniques for working with resin safely and effectively while encouraging your creativity to shine. You’ll have access to a variety of pendant shapes, colors, and floral accents to make your piece truly unique.

Workshop Highlights:
• A variety of pendant shapes and color options available
• Learn from an experienced instructor — beginners welcome!
• All materials provided, including pressed flowers, embellishments, and chain or keychain attachments
• Perfect as a personalized gift or keepsake you’ll treasure

Workshop Details:
🕒 Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
🎨 Ages 13+ (minors must be accompanied by an adult)
📍 In-person at Gillespie Florists
🚪 Doors open at 3:15 PM
👟 We will be standing for the duration — wear comfy shoes!
⚠️ Due to the sticky nature of resin materials, please dress accordingly.
🎟️ Limited space available — each attendee must purchase a ticket.

Both of these workshops are all about having fun, learning something new, and letting your imagination bloom. Surrounded by flowers and friendly faces, you’ll enjoy a creative afternoon that’s equal parts relaxing and rewarding.

✨ Join us for one (or both!) of these resin art adventures and take home a handmade treasure to show off or gift to someone special. ✨

Spots are limited, so reserve your seat today — and get ready to make something magical at Gillespie Florists!

Click here to sign up for SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16TH - EXPOXY RESIN ORNAMENT WORKSHOP

Click here to sign up for SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30TH - UV RESIN PENDANT or KEYCHAIN WORKSHOP

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Topics: DIY, Resin, workshop

GIVING THANKS: DIY Floral Design Classes - November 15 & 19, 2025

Posted by Thu, Nov 06, 2025 @ 06:10 AM

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🌻 Giving Thanks with Flowers: Thanksgiving DIY Floral Design Classes

Celebrate the warmth and beauty of the season with our Thanksgiving DIY Floral Design Classes at Gillespie Florists! Whether you love fresh flowers, seasonal decorating, or a fun night out with friends, these hands-on workshops are the perfect way to get creative and craft a stunning arrangement for your Thanksgiving table.

🍂 What You’ll Learn

Join our talented designers for a fun and inspiring 1–2 hour session where you’ll discover the art of floral design. With expert guidance and all materials provided, you’ll design your very own Thanksgiving centerpiece filled with vibrant fall blooms, seasonal foliage, and festive accents. You’ll head home with a beautiful arrangement ready to display or gift for the holiday!

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🌾 Class Details

✨ Saturday, November 15th at 4:00 PM
Lead Designer: Kayleigh

✨ Wednesday, November 19th at 6:00 PM
Lead Designer: Sheila Wise

📍 Location: Gillespie Florists — 9255 W 10th St, Indianapolis, IN 46234
💐 Cost: $50 per person
🔪 Ages: 18 and older (due to use of sharp instruments)
🌻 Includes: All materials — fresh flowers, seasonal foliage, decorative accents, and your choice of vase or container. Extra accessories will be available for purchase.

🌸 Luxury Upgrade

Looking to elevate your design? Choose a Single or Double Luxury Flower Upgrade to add premium blooms like lilies, roses, and other seasonal favorites. Our lead designer will hand-select the perfect flowers to make your arrangement even more stunning.

🦃 Why Join Us?

No experience? No problem! Our friendly designers will walk you through each step, offering hands-on guidance and expert tips to help you create a one-of-a-kind Thanksgiving arrangement.
Class sizes are limited to ensure personalized instruction — so bring a friend, sip something warm, and spend an evening (or afternoon!) designing, laughing, and celebrating the season with us.

Questions? Call 317-273-1100 — we can’t wait to see you there!

 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR SATURDAY 11/15 @ 4PM

 

 

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Topics: Indianapolis, Thanksgiving, DIY, DIY Flowers, floral design

The Faces of Gillespie Florists: Meet Sheila Wise

Posted by Sun, Nov 02, 2025 @ 10:04 AM

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🌸 The Faces of Gillespie Florists 🌸

Say hello to Sheila Wise, one of our incredible floral designers — or as she likes to call herself, “floral designer extraordinaire.”

Sheila has been part of the Gillespie Florists family for 16 years, and we truly can’t imagine the shop without her!

Her favorite blooms? White roses, white peonies, and mink protea — timeless, elegant, and full of personality, just like her designs.

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

“The people — most of us are like family. We can get mad, poke fun at each other, and it’s all good the next minute. We hold each other up when needed.”

SHEILAWISE
Sheila has a special place in her heart for funeral work, where her empathy and artistry shine as she helps bring comfort through flowers. Her floral journey began over 30 years ago, when she started helping friends and family with weddings and funerals — until one day, a shop owner recognized her natural talent and hired her on the spot!

As for her favorite Gillespie memory?

“During my interview, I was joking around and being super sarcastic with someone in the design room — not realizing he was the owner! I thought I’d blown it, but he insisted they hire me… and here I am, all these years later!”

When she’s not designing stunning arrangements like her favorite, ‘Warmest Remembrance,’ you’ll find Sheila remodeling her house, camping, or spending time with her beloved dogs. Around the shop, she’s affectionately known as our resident “vet/nurse,” always ready to lend a hand (or a bandage).

Sheila believes that “people are put in your life when needed — either for you or for them.” We couldn’t agree more.

💐 Join us in celebrating Sheila — 16 years of creativity, compassion, and humor at Gillespie Florists!

Want to learn more about the Faces of Gillespie Florists? Click the names below!

Sarah      Tyler

Duane    Kayleigh

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Topics: Gillespie Florists, meet the staff, family florist, floral design

GIVING THANKS: DIY Floral Design Class - November 15, 2025

Posted by Wed, Oct 29, 2025 @ 02:21 PM

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Give Thanks with Flowers: A Thanksgiving DIY Floral Design Class

Celebrate the beauty of the season with a hands-on floral design experience at Gillespie Florists! Whether you’re a flower enthusiast, a DIY lover, or simply looking for a cozy way to welcome Thanksgiving, this class is the perfect way to create something truly special for your holiday table.

🌻 What You’ll Learn

Join our talented designer, Kayleigh, for a fun and inspiring 1–2 hour session where you’ll discover the art of floral design. With decades of experience, Kayleigh will guide you step-by-step as you create your own Thanksgiving centerpiece bursting with fall blooms, seasonal textures, and warm autumn colors. You’ll leave with a gorgeous arrangement ready to take center stage at your Thanksgiving celebration!

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🍁 Class Details

When: Wednesday, November 15th at 4:00 PM
Where: Gillespie Florists — 9255 W 10th St, Indianapolis, IN 46234
Cost: $50 per person
Ages: 18 and older (due to use of sharp instruments)
Includes: All materials — fresh flowers, seasonal foliage, decorative accents, and a vase or container. Extra accessories will be available for purchase.
Luxury Upgrade: Looking to elevate your design? Choose a Single or Double Luxury Flower Upgrade to add premium blooms like lilies, roses, and other seasonal favorites. Our lead designer will hand-select the perfect flowers to make your arrangement even more stunning.

🦃 Why Join Us?

No experience? No problem! Kayleigh provides hands-on guidance and expert tips to help you create an arrangement you’ll be proud to display or gift. Our class sizes are limited to ensure everyone receives personal attention, so grab a friend and make it a fun, creative night out before the holiday rush!

Questions? Give us a call at 317-273-1100 — we can’t wait to design, laugh, and give thanks with you!

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP TODAY!

 

 

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Topics: Indianapolis, Thanksgiving, DIY, DIY Flowers, floral design

UV Resin Bracelet Workshop - October 30 6:30PM-8PM

Posted by Sun, Oct 19, 2025 @ 09:25 AM

KSBADGE_25-02🌸 UV Resin Bracelet Workshop at Gillespie Florists 🌸

Get ready for a fun and creative afternoon at Gillespie Florists! Join us for our UV Resin Workshop, where you’ll design and create two beautiful bracelets using pressed flowers and ultraviolet resin. Whether you’re brand new to resin art or already have a little experience, this workshop is perfect for you!

 

RESIN WORKSHOP

What You’ll Do:
✨ Design and craft two custom bracelets with pressed flowers and colorful embellishments.
✨ Learn step-by-step techniques from our friendly, experienced instructors—no experience needed!
✨ All materials are included—just bring your imagination and creativity!
✨ Make one to keep and one to gift (or keep them both—we won’t tell!).

Workshop Details:
🌼 We’ll be standing at tables for the duration of the workshop, so please wear comfortable shoes.
🌼 For safety and space reasons, attendees must be 13 years or older. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
🌼 Due to limited space, each person attending must purchase a ticket.

🎟️ Reserve your spot today! Click below to get your ticket and join us for this delightful hands-on experience!

Click here to purchase a ticket!

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Topics: Indianapolis, Resin, workshop

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

 

 

 
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Topics: fresh flowers, family florist, floral design

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