OUTSTANDING ARRANGEMENTS

Local florists’ tips on choosing a Valentine’s Day bouquet worth bragging about

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By Patti MacMillan Photos provided by Farmdog Flowers, Paragon Flowers, Wild Orchid and Wood Blossom Creations

uscious red roses — they’re one of those telltale signs that the holiday of amour is upon us. But, while roses may never leave their coveted spot as the top blossom for Valentine’s Day, florists throughout the area agree that outside-the-box arrangements are seeing increasing popularity. And for good reason, as there’s hardly anything more romantic than an elegant and ethereal bouquet (or a sustainable one!) for an adored recipient.

Here florists share the industry trends they’re seeing as well as insights for placing orders this Valentine’s Day. As with declarations of love, it’s best not to wait.

 PARAGON FLOWERS This year’s Valentine’s Day will mark the 10th for the St. Charles-based business, and more than 40 in the industry for owner Michael John. John prides himself on Paragon’s customer service and thinks of the shop’s staff as family. When it comes to less traditional arrangements, he has more than a few suggestions. “We are doing more and more mixed arrangements that still say love, but we are using giant Oriental lilies, which have a beautiful fragrance,” he says. Other flowers to check out include the feathery Pink Mink protea, the delicately speckled purple vanda orchid and the striking calla lily. Or for something truly distinctive, John recommends the hanging heliconia, a plant that draws comparisons to a lobster claw. If it has to be roses, however, John finds pink Geraldine roses to be a popular pick. They’re even a personal favorite of the florist himself.  FARMDOG FLOWERS With an organic micro flower farm located outside St. Charles, Farmdog Flowers knows its petals inside and out. “During the warmer growing season here, we grow a significant amount of cut flowers and foliage that we use in our retail arrangements, weddings and special events,” says farmer, florist and proprietor Gerrit Husar. Farmdog Flowers specializes in the style of a European garden, which translates to fresh blossoms arranged loosely with an emphasis on textures, hues and composition. Ordering well before the holiday is key, the expert notes, as is flexibility in making selections due to shortages. “Our pre-order arrangements will be a mix of blooms that may include the garden roses you would expect on Valentine’s Day, but will also feature other exotic blooms and greenery that are sure to impress,” says Husar, who is planning to open a brick-and-mortar location in Batavia early this spring.  WILD ORCHID CUSTOM FLORAL DESIGN Located in Elburn, this family-owned and -operated shop is in the business of bringing its patrons’ visions to life. “We want to be accessible in talking with our customers when they have questions or helping them decide on flower choices,” says Marie Pauly, owner and floral designer. When it comes to Valentine’s Day, Pauly acknowledges that red and pink flowers are always a solid pick, but to also consider something more unexpected. She sees a move toward more earthy colors and natural elements. But, whatever the choice, early ordering is always on trend. “Pre-booking your Valentine’s flowers ahead of time is the best way to help ensure you get what you really want,” she says.

A SUSTAINABLE ALTERNATIVE

Looking for something long-term? When it comes to floral arrangements, those of the wooden variety may be just the thing. Derived from a marshy plant, the pliable sola wood proves itself an uncanny facsimile. Bouquets of these unique faux flowers are an eco-friendly way to brighten someone’s day. Nona Kaushal, owner of Wood Blossom Creations in Aurora, sells her handcrafted pieces via her Facebook page as well as at the Painted Tree boutique in Naperville. She asks for a minimum of two weeks’ notice for Valentine’s Day orders. “The beauty of these flowers is that they can be dyed to match any color palette and customized to fit any aesthetic,” Kaushal says. “My customers like the fact that they can display their arrangements all year-round.”