Mother's Day Roundup

Wow, what a weekend!  Between five proms, two weddings, and of course all the craziness that comes with Mother's day, this year was one for the books!  We used thousands of roses alone, not to mention hundreds of other flowers for corsages, bouquets, arrangements and everything in between.  But the fun's not over--we're just getting started!

We have outdoor hanging plants and patio pots available in a wide variety of colors and styles, so if your outdoor space is in need of a revamp, come pick something out.

With the warmer weather comes dreaded mosquito season, but we have our Murphy's Naturals line of mosquito repellent candles, incense sticks and sprays back in stock.  All natural, effective bug control!


Another effective natural bug spray is Good Earth Naturals Squito Spray, also in stock for the summer.

We're also planning some summer events at our store to celebrate the summer, stay tuned for more information. 

So, thanks for the great Mother's Day season, and we hope to see you this summer for more floral fun!

-Your flower-loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and Gifts

Mother's Day Countdown!

We are less than a week away from Mother's day--5 days to be exact, are you ready?  If not, here's what to do.

If you're buying...

Flowers:  Get your orders in now! We're packed to the brim with flowers and want to make your loved one a fresh arrangement they'll never forget!  Call us at 651-486-0403, order online, or come in the store to find the perfect arrangement.

Gifts:  Come in any time this week for all of our new spring lines, including local candy companies, fresh decor, and colorful potted plants!

Help!  I don't know what to get!!!: Here's a winning combination: A colorful bouquet picked fresh from our cooler, a selection of Minnesota-made Abdallah truffles, and a gift card so your loved one can enjoy a special shopping trip to our store.

-Your flower-loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and Gifts

Plan ahead: Mother's Day is Coming Soon!

Believe it or not, Mother's Day is only a few weeks away: May 13!  So, what do you need to know to be ahead of the game?

1. Order Early!



Ordering fresh arrangements early will ensure your flowers make it to your loved one in time for the holiday.  You can visit us in person, call in your order by phone, or order online on our website.  If you're looking to give fresh flowers, now's the time to get your order in!  (arrangement shown above is Teleflora's Possibly Pink)

2. Order Unique!

If flowers aren't your thing, come into our store for a huge selection of artisan gifts.  We specialize in gifts under $50, so no matter your budget you'll be sure to find something your loved one will be happy to receive.

3. Order Thoughtfully!



Not quite sure what to give this Mother's Day?  Here's an easy idea: get a gift card!  We offer gift cards to the store so your mother can get the gift of a shopping trip.  Pair a gift card with a selection of locally-made Abdallah candies for a thoughtful gift your loved one that will have you both smiling!

So start planning!  We're here to make your Mother's day as stress free as possible.

-Your flower-loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and Gifts

Administrative Assistant's Day-Two Trends to Know

Administrative Assistant's Day is this Wednesday, so if you'd like to show your appreciation to the hard-working administrative assistant in your life: here are two good ideas.

Flowers:

Flowers are one of the brightest ways to show your appreciation.  We can work with any budget to deliver a beautiful arrangement to a workplace or home in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas. 

Right now we're loving watch-them-grow bulb gardens--a blend of tulip, daffodil, and hyacinth bulbs that you can watch bloom!  And, you can dry the bulbs and replant them later, making them the gift that keeps on giving. 

Gift Cards:

Another great gift idea is our gift cards!  We offer gift cards in any price range so you can give the gift of a shopping trip!  Come by the store to pick one up and see what kinds of gifts we offer-anything from candles and home goods to silk flowers and gourmet spreads!

So be prepared ad show your appreciation this Administrative Assistant's Day with a trip to our shop!

-Your flower-loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and Gifts

Open House: THIS THURSDAY!

Our spring open house is nearly here, and with it will come a store wide discount, door prizes, and much more!  Read this post for more detailed information, but here's what you need know:

The open house will run from 10 AM to 6:30 PM this Thursday, April 12, so stop in at any point in the afternoon for fun.

We will be hosting tastings of some of our popular candy and food lines, including Poppy Popcorn and Sweet Shop USA.

Door prizes will be handed out throughout the events, plus a raffle for a Mother's day arrangement! (hint hint)

Store merchandise will be 10% off (excluding fresh flowers).

This is a great event if you've never visited our store in person and want to see what we're all about, or if you haven't stopped by in a while and want to see all the new spring lines we're carrying!

We hope to see you this Thursday!

-Your flower-loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and Gifts

Easter Week: What You Need To Know

Easter Sunday is coming this week, so here are some reminders and tips for you to have the best Easter ever!

1. Order early



If you'd like a centerpiece arrangement or plant for your Sunday dinner, place your order this week!  We will be closed Easter Sunday, but will be delivering all week and Saturday.

2. Easter lilies and pets



Remember that Easter lilies are one of the most toxic plants for pets.  For households with curious cats, a better option would be tulips, sunflowers, or irises, which are much less toxic. Many people don't know that we also carry a wide variety of silk flowers, and can custom-create a lovely centerpiece or wreath for your home if your pets are relentless flower hunters.

3.  New Easter decor!



Our shop has had an explosion of spring and Easter decor and gifts. Lots of new lines and brands to explore, come by and take a look around!

Here are some holidays to keep in mind as we head into spring:

Easter: April 1

Administrative professionals day-April 25

Mother's day-May 13

We look forward to all the fun we'll have in spring, and hope you'll join us.

-Your flower-loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and Gifts

Blooming Branches-Signs of Spring!

When (or should we say, if) the snow starts to melt in the next few weeks, you may start to see the first signs of spring: flowering branches.  Yes, before the bushes and garden plants start to bloom, branches are getting a bright start.  Here are some popular branches you may see in your neighborhood soon.  

Forsythia 

Forsythia is a branch that blooms with small, bright yellow flowers.  We use the tall, thin branches as statement pieces for larger arrangements.  

Apple

You may see apple trees around you neighborhood, but have you ever stopped to look a them when they're in bloom?  The soft white and pink flowers resemble a cherry blossom, and add a pastel touch to yards.

Plum

Maybe even more like a cherry blossom, plum trees also bloom with smaller, softer pink flowers.  Putting the two near each other would surely add character to a yard!

Quince

Quince shrubs are a little more exotic, but you may find some around town.  The spiny branches produce a striking red flower that would rival roses.

Pussy Willow

A Minnesota classic.  Thin branches with incredibly soft blooms, we already have some pussy willow in stock at the store, and have enjoyed using it in flower and plant arrangements.

So as you drive around town this spring, take a closer look at the bushes and trees you pass, some of them will be in full boom before you know it!  

-Your flower-loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and gift.

Spring is coming: What you need to know

We're finally over the hump, spring is in just a few short weeks!  So, what have we got planned for the next few months?

First, Mother's Day.  It's never too early to place your orders, either by phone, in person, or visiting our website.  We also have noticed that several local proms will be the same weekend of Mother's Day, so make sure to plan ahead for the smoothest weekend!

If you come to the store, you'll notice we've got spring merchandise.  Fresh silks, exciting scents, and bright new plants are starting to fill the store.  We specialize in gifts under $50, so come on by and see what's new!

Finally, if you have an affinity for nuts, check out our new line of Indianola Pecans!  We carry several varieties, from Pralines to pecans infused with Jack Daniel's whiskey, the prefect St. Patty's Day snack!

Here's hoping warmers days are soon ahead:

-Your flower-loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and Gifts.

Anthurium: the NEW Red Flower

Since the weather is seemingly unending, we wanted to bring you along to sunny Kona, Hawaii, where our shop owner Lugene visited an Anthurium grower.  Here's what she found out.

1. Anthuriums are varied

The most iconic Anthurium is the bright, shiny red bloom, but there are actually several different colors available.  Sizes also vary from tiny flowers that fit into your palm to enormous blooms as big as your head!

2. The growing process is unique

Anthuriums have a root system similar to air plants, so they grow best after being rooted in volcanic dirt.  To preserve productivity, individual plants are culled if they don't produce at least 6 blooms at once.

 

The grower also had a variety of Ginger flowers-another tropical favorite. Pictured are the classic red as well as a green 'rattlesnake' variety.

We hope visions of flowers in Hawaii will keep you warm this week.  DON'T FORGET: Valentine's Day is NEXT WEEK!!!Place your order now for the best selection of flowers and guaranteed delivery.

-Your flower-loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and Gift.

Seeing RED!

We're gearing up for Valentine's day, which means red and pink flowers-and lots of them!  Here are some rosy flowers you may not have heard of for your loved one's bouquet or arrangement, which we'll have available at the store:

Red Ginger



Ginger is a flower that makes a statement, with a bright red bloom and broad leaves.  Definitely an exotic touch for arrangements!

Anthuriums



Anthuriums have flowers that are so vibrant they almost seem artificial.  Delightfully heart-shaped, we have potted anthurium that makes an excellent gift to that special someone.

Gerbera Daisy



If you want a softer arrangement, Gerbera daisies are perfect.  They are available in shades from baby pink to hot pink.

Cymbidium Orchid



Finally, one plant that has everyone in the store saying "wow" are the cymbidium orchids.  They truly are amazing to look at, and make perfect centerpieces for a romantic meal.

Don't forget to place your orders for Valentine's day, cal or come in today to be well prepared!

-Your flower-loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and Gifts

Snow Day!

Yesterday brought a fresh blanket of snow to the state, some of it falling as fast as three inches an hour!  So, here are some pictures we got of the front of the store, when the sun came out to make everything look like it had been dipped in powdered sugar.

Stay safe on the roads, or better yet, order your flowers by phone or on our website and avoid the ice altogether!  

Wishing you warm and cozy thoughts,

Your flower-loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and Gift.

Get geared up for Valentine's Day!

It's coming sooner than you think-Valentine's day is only 28 days away!  So what do you need to be ready?

1. Flowers

If you've never bought flowers for your loved one, Valentine's day is the perfect time to start.  It doesn't need to be elaborate (although we love to pull out all the stops sometimes), we have arrangements on our website for every budget, or call us for a one-of-a-kind designed piece.  Add-ons include locally made Abdallah candies, mylar and latex balloons, and cuddly plush animals. 

We can find someone to deliver to anywhere in the U.S, so don't hesitate to call us for long-distance relationships, we can help!

2. Gifts

Flowers are nice, but we also carry a wide variety of gifts in our shop.  Popular Valentine's items include unique jewelry, tons of home decor, and more candles than you could imagine!  You're sure to find the perfect gift for your valentine, no matter your budget.

3. Gift cards

If your valentine loves to shop for themselves, a gift card might be the perfect idea!  Customization for any amount, give the gift of a trip out to our beautiful shop, where they can find that special something.

And if you DO forget, don't worry.  We'll have plenty of fresh flowers to choose from on Valentine's day, so you can come home from work with a bouquet they'll love.

-Your flower-loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and Gifts

Time for Tulips!

One things that keeps us florists going during these cold, late-winter days are tulips coming back into season, so we wanted to teach you all about these iconic flowers.

They might not look too alike, but tulips are actually part of the lily family, and are found in 75 distinct species.  The name 'tulip' is thought to come from the word 'turban', as their tight, wrapped blooms resemble the hat.  More exotic tulips, however, bloom more loosely, and resemble their lily cousins.

An exotic fringed tulip, showing the diversity of the species.

By far the largest producer of tulips is the Netherlands, and distributes over 3 billion bulbs a year in addition to mature blooms.  Much of the tulips at our store come direct from the Netherlands, where enormous fields of neon blooms are not uncommon.

A tulips field, showing just how many tulips are grown for the flower industry.

Tulips also make nice garden additions, and can easily be grown from bulbs.  Gardeningknowhow.com has a helpful guide on sprouting bulbs, just make sure to store them in a dry place until it's time for planting.

We hope thinking about tulips will help you think warm thoughts as we inch closer to spring!

-Your flower-loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and Gift.

Extreme cold and flowers: what you need to know

Here in Minnesota, we're enjoying below-freezing temperatures that chill to the bone.  But that doesn't mean we can't still enjoy fresh flowers!  Here are the best tips for buying flowers when the weather is frightful!

1. Make flowers your last stop.

If the flower shop is one of your stops for the day, save us for last; not only will the flowers spend less time in volatile conditions, but your car will have had ample time to warm up and keep them from freezing.

2. Bundle them up (you too!)

When temperatures are below freezing, having your arrangements and bouquets double bagged will protect them from freezing.  Make sure there's a pocket of air in the bag to act as an insulator.  And don't leave them in the cold car!  A few minutes is all it takes for them to perish.

3. Display your blooms carefully.

While an arrangement may look nice in an entryway or by a window, the cold air won't let them age well.  Place them away from vents, opening doors, or poorly-insulated windows for ideal display.  And, putting them in the fridge overnight will help preserve cut flowers for an even longer display time.

4. Don't forget about plants.

As the air temperature drops, plants can dry out just like our skin.  Make sure to check their soil more often and hydrate as needed.

5. Let us do the work instead!

If facing the great outdoors makes you shiver, give us a call and set up a delivery!  We'll do all the work and make sure your flowers make it to their destinations safely, while you cozy up with a blanket and a warm drink.

We hope you're keeping warm during this cold snap, and here's to warmer days ahead!

-Your flower-loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and Gift

Thank You for a Wonderful Year

As the year comes to a close, we want to take a moment to be thankful.  It's been an eventful year.  Between Valentine's day, Mother's day, and Christmas, we've used thousands of red roses and countless other flowers.

Spring and Easter brought an influx of peace lilies. Our summer garden was a beautiful success, and we enjoyed looking at the flowers while we worked and communing with the fish and frogs when we went outside.

The winter season brought an avalanche of poinsettias, Christmas tree ornaments, greenery, and package after package of red roses!

It's been crazy, busy, exciting, crowded, and unforgettable, and we've loved every minute of it.

So while the last few days of the year tick away, stop by one more time for 25% off select winter merchandise.

Thank you for the most exciting year yet.  We hope for many more flower-filled days in 2018!
-Your flower-loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and Gift.

Winter Greens: What to look for winter 2017

Sure, everyone likes the red, white, and green flowers that make up winter arrangements, but what about the greens?  Greenery used in the winter can elevate a design from a standard arrangement to a spectacular winter-themed design.  So what kind of greens are used in the winter to make these arrangements?

White pine:



White pine is the longer-needled pine often seen during the colder months.  Despite its sharp needles, this green actually adds a softer, willowy look to an arrangement.

Princess Pine:



In contrast to white pine, princess pine has short, tight needles that add structure to a piece.

Variegated Holly:



While wild type holly has leaves that are fully green, variegated holly has been developed to have a cream piping around the edges to stand out against other greens.  Plus, the bright red berries add a colorful pop to an arrangement!

Seeded Eucalyptus:



Seeded eucalyptus is available year round, but it really shines in winter designs.  The faded green also looks wonderful as a garland on a mantel or table.

So, next time you get a winter arrangement, look at the greens as well as the flowers, they might be just as pretty!

-Your flower (and greens!) loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and Gift.

Reminders for the holidays!

You might not think of fall and winter as peak flower seasons, but we're getting busier and busier as the temperature drops!  So, while we send out table pieces and holiday baskets, here are some reminders for the season so when you think fall and winter, you think flowers!

Table pieces: Family dinners are elevated from casual to chic with a centerpiece.  From a simple plant to a grand arrangement, you'll be sure to have your family saying 'wow!' with a centerpiece!

Poinsettias: Poinsettias are usually the first plant people think of when they think of winter plants, but did you know you can customize your poinsettia here at Hummingbird?  We can find you unique and rare colors, or glitz up your plant with glitter and bows.  But place your order early, poinsettias are a favorite and will go fast!

Transport: If you want to take your flowers home yourself, remember that the should not be left out of water for a long period of time, or left alone in a cold car.  Make Hummingbird your last stop of the day and your arrangement will stay vibrant for the longest period of time!

Gifts:  Our holiday gift season is in full swing!  Stop by the shop to find beautiful tree ornaments, gift ideas for everyone in your family, and decorating inspiration.

We hope you'll come visit us during one of the most exciting times of the year, and see all a flower store has to offer in the colder months!

-Your flower-loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and Gift

Holiday Open House

This fall and winter, Hummingbird Floral and Gifts has lined up a full schedule of fun events for you to attend.  On November 30, we will be holding our Holiday Open House, one of our most popular in-store events.  Come join us for a night of fun, including:

Snacks-Tastings of our favorite food products and some new ones!

Door prizes- Mystery prizes drawn throughout the night.

Decor- Enjoy our fresh holiday decorations, including 8 Christmas trees throughout the store, each with a different theme.

Discount- Shop our entire store with a 10% discount.



Our open houses are always favorite events with our customers, so if you've never been to one, mark Thursday,  November 30 on your calendar.  Even runs from 3-8 PM  Come say hi!

-Your flower-loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and Gift

5 Tips for a Pro Bouquet!

We've all been there-you want to buy flowers for someone but have no idea where to start when it comes to designing.  So, here's a step by step guide to put together a bouquet like a seasoned pro (and maybe even impress our designers, too!)

Tip 1: Have a theme.

A one or two word theme will help narrow down your flower choices.  For example, a 'celebration' theme will usually include brighter colors and interesting shapes, while a 'traditional anniversary' will use classic flowers like red roses. 

Tip 2: Know your colors.

One fun way to put together a bouquet is by having a main color.  You could use oranges and reds for a fall theme, or soft purples and pinks to celebrate a birth.  TIP: Some colors aren't widespread in flowers.  Blue is very rare in natural flowers, so to get a blue bouquet you may end up with artificially painted blooms.

Tip 3: Have one favorite.

Designers can come up with bouquets without needing a single flower suggestion from you, but if you know someone's favorite flower (or least favorite!), it will help shape the design.  Also helpful: knowing any allergies someone might have to things like stargazer lilies, which have a scent.

Tip 4: Know your height.

If you're purchasing a bouquet for someone, make sure they have a vase that will fit the flowers you're buying.  Tall flowers may need to be cut to fit a shorter vase.

Tip 5: Be open to interpretation. 

Designers love creating unique bouquets.  A few guidelines help, but giving them creative freedom will allow them to put together a brand new design that likely has never been seen before!  Give us an idea of what you're looking for, then let us loose in the cooler for a great bouquet!

So there you go, five tips to putting together the perfect bouquet!  What's the best bouquet you've ever received?  Let us know in a comment below.

-Your flower-loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and Gift.

What's in season?

With dozens of different flower varieties, each with their own growing schedule, it can be hard to know what flowers are in season.  So, we want to help you out with a master list of common flowers and when they are in season.

Usually available year-round (sometimes things like hurricanes or bad weather an delay deliveries):

-Roses
-Mums
-Daisies
-Larksburg
-Snapdragon
-Carnations
-Lilies
-Alstromaria
-Spray roses

Available during the spring:

-Tulips
-Peonies
-Daffodils

Available during the summer:

-Sunflowers
-Hydrangeas
-Peony
-Daisy
-Most common garden-type flowers

Available during the fall:

-Sunflowers
-Mums
-Broomcorn
-Feathergrass
-Red eye roses

Available during the winter
-Most berries
-Eucalyptus
-Seasonal greens

So now you know which flowers are in season!  Stop on by all year and see the unique flowers we have in stock!

-Your flower-loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and Gift