By: Andrea SchuchCustom floral arrangements are always a hot seller here in the showroom. We have two great local designers that design items for our floor on a regular basis: Joyce Konstantinow of Blooms & Rooms in Lakemoor and Rose Pickett of Silk N Things in Deer Park. I am talking with them this week about trends, challenges and upcoming floral events for them.
CDT: What trends are you seeing in silks that are new?
B&R: Feathers are more prevalent in the fall season. But, the biggest trend is that of succulents, miniature silk garden terrariums and a more natural design style. Designs of today have less berries and fruits.
Colors trends are less “interior” colors, but more natural hues. Brick red & gold tones are still very popular as well as neutrals; linen & ivory. Burgundy & purples are two of the most difficult colors to find in quality silks.
SNT: I have identified three trends for 2010 holiday decorating. First, "Breakfast at Tiffany's". This look epitomizes classic elegance updated with todays love of "bling". For a more casual approach, "Out of Africa" combines natural textures and pattern with a touch of shimmer that adds holiday excitement. "The Night Before Christmas" incorporates traditional Christmas motifs and colors designed to help us re-live the memories of Christmas Eve.
CDT: What challenges are silk floral producers experiencing now?
Colors trends are less “interior” colors, but more natural hues. Brick red & gold tones are still very popular as well as neutrals; linen & ivory. Burgundy & purples are two of the most difficult colors to find in quality silks.
SNT: I have identified three trends for 2010 holiday decorating. First, "Breakfast at Tiffany's". This look epitomizes classic elegance updated with todays love of "bling". For a more casual approach, "Out of Africa" combines natural textures and pattern with a touch of shimmer that adds holiday excitement. "The Night Before Christmas" incorporates traditional Christmas motifs and colors designed to help us re-live the memories of Christmas Eve.
CDT: What challenges are silk floral producers experiencing now?
B&R: With the change in economy there has been a decrease of manufactures than there was a year ago, resulting in a smaller selection of product & varieties. The biggest challenge is in foliages. Finding realistic greens is a weekly task.
CDT: What has changed in the making of silk stems?
B&R: Silk flowers have not been “silk” for at least 6 years or more. The silk flowers of today are 100% polyester with plastic calyx & stamens. The plastic stems even have life-like thorns. Like all industries every product has a cycle and there is a definite return to more poly, but not the quality of plastic flowers like the 50’s. It a new & improved poly which in many cases is extremely realistic, and bendable and flexible with a strong/thick wire within the molded stem. Hand wrapped stems are a thing of the past. Some of this has to do with the decrease in manufactures in China. The plus of today silks are more durable, hold their color longer, & are washable. The key is in how they are designed.
CDT: What is the most common type of arrangement needed? (i.e. for a dining table, door decorations, etc)
CDT: What is the most common type of arrangement needed? (i.e. for a dining table, door decorations, etc)
B&R: Dining room centerpieces and foyer arrangements are still the most popular & requested, but a small foliage to tuck in a bookcase or a natural looking orchid for a side table rate a close second to the dining room.
CDT: What is upcoming for your business? (seminars or classes you may be doing?)
B&R: Nov. 11, 12, 13th, Blooms & Rooms Design Studio will be hosting a 3 day Christmas Sale at our farmhouse studio/showroom location; 31074 N. Darrell Rd., McHenry (Lakemoor) IL. The hours: Thurs. & Fri 1-7 and Sat. 11-2. Open by invitation only - please visit http://www.bloomsandrooms.com/ for morer information & register to be on the invite list or call 815-759-5959 and ask for Joyce.
On Nov. 6th & 7th we will be showing at the Barrington Park District Showcase of Arts & Treasures. This Annual Christmas Show is held at the new facility; 235 Lions Dr., Barrington. Scheduled Times: 11-5 on Sat. and 10-4 on Sunday. http://www.barringtonparkdistrict.org/
We are celebrating our 4th year in designing custom silk flowers, orchids, & greens for the Chicago Design Team showroom. As of October 4th, we are expanding our services to the trade. Blooms & Rooms will have an expanded presence at Arlington Design Center. We will be showcasing our “Rustic Urban” look & a variety of floral designs at Design d’ Vision, Ridge Ave location #3 in bldg. 2. Check out our featured look and give us your feedback.
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