1-800-FLOWERS Interview with Julie Mulligan & Giveaway

I was recently given the opportunity to interview Julie Mulligan, a floral lifestyle designer from 1-800-FLOWERS to ask some questions about flowers. Since Mother's Day is this weekend I thought I would ask her about how to properly take care of flowers once we get them (hint, hint darling husband - just in case you are reading this).

Mom of 2 Boys: Is it true you can put a penny in the water to make the flowers live longer?
Julie: I've heard that, but have never seen it work.

Mom of 2 Boys: How can you make the flowers live longer?
Julie: Make sure you change the water often and cut the stems. Also, remove flowers that have passed their prime. Once the stems are short, place them in a smaller container.

Mom of 2 Boys: When you get flowers, how much of the stem are you supposed to cut and at what angle?
Julie: Cut the stem at a 45 degree angle. When giving flowers a fresh cut, you only need to cut a half an inch. Feel free to cut as much of the stem off if you are trying to place it in a smaller container.

Since graduations and Father's Day are right around the corner I thought it would be appropriate to ask questions about buying men flowers as well.

Mom of 2 Boys: Since Father’s Day isn’t too far off – what type of flowers are more masculine to send to men?
Julie: Give cut succulent. It is a really modern and masculine looking arrangement. Place it in a low container - you can use a leather box or black metal cube. Keep it as a tight and low arrangement.

Finally, I wanted to clarify the meaning behind the color of roses.

Mom of 2 Boys: Do different colors of roses symbolize different things?
Julies: Yes they do!
Red - is the ultimate romantic way to say, "I love you.” Red also stands for courage and respect. Send a red rose to a military mom.

White – is the color of innocence and also conveys the message, "You’re heavenly." It's a great gift for a new love.

Red & White together – signifies unity. White roses with red edges do too. What a terrific surprise for your first Valentine's together or your newlywed friends.

Pink – symbolizes grace, sophistication and elegance. Deep pink stands for gratefulness and appreciation, while light pink conveys admiration. Any shade of pink or a mixture will be perfect for your grandmother.

Yellow – stands for joy, gladness and friendship. Imagine the look on the face of your best friend when they receive a dozen sunny yellow roses from you.

Coral or Orange – symbolizes enthusiasm and desire. It's time to get off the fence and declare your love to your secret crush!

Pale Colors – convey warmth and friendship. Send these to your gal pals or sisters who have been by your side through thick and thin.

1-800-FLOWERS has a great program called Spot A Mom where you can share your mom story and match up a mom type with flowers. It is actually a pretty cool thing - you should check it out here.

I want to say "Thank You" to Julie and 1-800-FLOWERS for sharing these valuable tips for Mother's Day and for giving one lucky reader a $30 GC to 1-800-FLOWERS!

GIVEAWAY: To be eligible to win the $30 GC from 1-800-FLOWERS please visit their site and tell me what floral arrangement you would love for Mother's Day. Please leave a link to your choice.

WANT EXTRA ENTRIES?

1. Share a floral tip in the comment section.

2. Follow my blog.

3. Tweet this giveaway.

(LEAVE COMMENTS TELLING ME WHAT YOU DID)

Winner will be chosen by Random.org. Giveaway ends on 5/16/09 at 11:59 pm. Winner has 48 hours to forward contact information.

Disclosure: I was not paid for this post, nor was I given any free products. (I just wanted to share with you!)