Congratulations Graduates!

School's finally out for the summer--and for some it's out for good.  We'd like to offer our congratulations to all graduates, and wish them well in their journeys. 

Do you have a graduate in your life?  Here are some ideas for graduations gifts that will be meaningful and memorable. 

Flowers

Fresh flowers are of course a wonderful choice for graduation, ask about what's in season to get a bright bouquet to mark the occasion.

Lifetime candle



Lifetimes candles live up to their names, burning for years before needing a refill of paraffin, making them a gift that will last a lifetime and be a reminder of graduation for years to come.

Seeds of happiness



For a tiny reminder to smile, check out seeds of happiness.  Each one is handcrafted to be a bright reminder of the things in life that make you smile-like graduating!  A great gift for teachers, too!

Again, congrats to the grads and we hope everyone has a wonderful summer!

-Your flower-loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and Gift

Hummingbird season is here!

Hummingbirds are one of the smallest signs of summer--but what kinds of things can do you to attract them to your yard?

1. RED!



Hummingbirds are drawn to the color red, and will be drawn to yards with bright red flowers or decorations. 

2. Plant the right flowers.



The best flowers for hummingbirds are those with tubular blooms (they hold the most nectar).  Favorites include lilies, petunias, and honeysuckle.

3. Set up a feeder.



Any commercial hummingbird feeder will do, but glass feeders are easier to clean.  Feed one part sugar to three parts water and wait.

Follow these steps and your yard will soon become a hummingbird haven. 

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

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

Coming Soon: Spring Open House!

It may be hard to believe looking outside, but spring is here, and with it comes our first open house of the year!  Mark your calendars: Thursday, April 12 we will be hosting our spring open house from 10 AM to 6:30 PM

Here are some of the fun things we will have in store during the open house:

Door Prizes and Discount:

We will be holding a raffle as well as offering door prizes.  Grand prize is a Mother's Day arrangement worth $75! 

All merchandise will be 10% off (excluding fresh flowers).  We have several new lines of products in the store, including Nora Fleming dishware and MOVA globes.



MOVA Globes are becoming a fast favorite with employees and customer alike.  Using solar power to perpetually rotate, they're a fun electricity-free gift

Food Sampling



In the mood for a sweet treat?  Sample gourmet Poppy Popcorn, Anette's Chocolates, Terrapin Ridge Farms and more!

Other festivities include a spa room where you can pamper yourself and try new body care products by Sonoma Lavender, Good Earth Soaps and Sunleaf Naturals. 

So be sure to stop by on Thursday, April 12 from 10 AM to 6:30 PM for some spring festivities to spite the dreadful weather.

-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

Scent-tous: National Fragrance Week

This week is national fragrance week, so we'd like to highlight just some of the favorite scents we have around the store.

Good Earth Soap: Lilac soy candle



We're in love with the summery scents of the Good Earth candles, especially the eco-friendly, clean burning lilac scent.  Anyone who has smelled fresh lilac bushes during the summer will recognize this scent, and its adorable mason jar container adds a touch of character to wherever you like to burn candles.

Michel Design Works: Honey Almond soy wax travel candle



It's hard to chose just one favorite from the Michel Designs collection of scents, but Honey Almond is hard to beat.  A very sweet yet mild scent in a petite container so you can bring it to every room in the house-and outdoors too!

Lampe Berger: Fresh Mint



If you're unfamiliar with Lampe Berger, they are a French company specializing in fragrance 'lamps' that can be loaded with any of a wide variety of scents designed to not only freshen the air, but actually remove common household odors.  With its clean, fresh notes, Fresh Mint is a good starter scent. (pst-Lampe Berger products make the perfect Mother's Day gift!)

This is just a small taste of the dozens of scents we carry in  store, so come by and take a look (or sniff) around to find the perfect match for you!

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

Make a Marshmallow Flower-This Saturday!

Come in the store this Saturday, March 24 from 2-4 PM for a fun spring-themed treat: marshmallow flowers!



Learn how to arrange marshmallows into colorful floral arrangements-and then eat them, of course. 

Cost is free!  Please RSVP to 651-486-0403 to secure a spot.  We hope to see you there!

Seeing Green:Shamrock Plants!

St. Patrick's Day is this week, so to get in the spirit here's a quick care guide for a classic green plant: the Oxalis or Shamrock plant.

Oxalis are often confused for clover plants, so to tell them apart, look at the leaves: clover leaves are rounded at the ends while Oxalis leaves are square.



The nice thing about Oxalis plants is that they stay petite, usually under 6 inches in diameter, making them perfect for small spaces.  They also bloom several times during fall, winter and spring, with simple white flowers that add charm to any indoor space.

And if green isn't your color, the Oxalis can also be found in a deep purple.



Another unique aspect of Shamrock plants is how they rest: when the sun goes down their leaves fold down like an umbrella to conserve energy, and spring right back up in the morning!

Care for the Oxalis is fairly straightforward, they enjoy sunny spaces while in a period of growth, and slightly more shaded areas when dormant.  Pinch off dead flowers regularly.

While it is in a growing phase, water your shamrock when the soil feels dry, and fertilize with a plant fertilizer every month.  When it enters dormancy during the summer, the leaves will begin to die back, so stop watering and fertilizing and let it rest in a cooler, darker location until you see new growth.

Some varieties can do well in outdoor pots during the warmer months, but will need to be brought inside before the first frost of the year.

All in all, Shamrock plants are wonderful low effort plants that will bring a touch of color to your space year round.

Wishing you a lucky St. Patrick's day full of green!

-Your flower-loving friends at Hummingbird Floral and Gifts

International Women's Day: Spotlight

International Women's Day is Thursday, so we'd like to take a moment and highlight some of the women-owned businesses we love here at the shop. 

Sunleaf Naturals

Sunleaf Naturals of Waconia, MN is just one of the over 20 Women Owned product lines featured at Hummingbird Floral and Gifts.   Founded and owned by Teresa Andrys, Sunleaf Naturals is committed to 100% natural plant based ingredients.  Her essential oils are 100% with no synthetics and she uses non-GMO and certified organic botanicals when available.

We began carrying the products in 20017 and are proud to carry several Sunleaf Naturals lines.  We carry Single Note Essential Oils and Essential Oil Blends for DIY bath products and personal aromatherapy.  We also feature reed diffusers and electronic oil diffusers for home fragrance.

As a Minnesota based company and employer, Sunleaf donates 5% to protecting fresh water resources in our area. 

Mangiacotti

Michele Mangiacotti started her body care line in Massachusetts in 2006 and was picked up by Hummingbird Floral and Gifts in 2017.  Mangiacotti's line of plant based essential oil infused fragrances combine feel-good ingredients with elegant, enviornmentally conscious packaging.

Hummingbird Floral and Gift proudly carries several Mangiacotti lines.  We feature hand creams, hand sanitizers, lip therapy for the body and candles and cleaning spray for the home.  

Mangiacotti is more than just pretty fragrances!  The company was recently featured on "Good Morning America" on February 22 because of their "See the Good Project".  "See The Good Project" provides employment opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities in packaging the company's products. 

Michel Design Works

In 1980, Deborah Michel made her first product: "Our Country Diary". A journal to record observations, the quality paper and beautiful graphics catapulted Michel Design Works into the powerhouse it is today.

Hummingbird Floral and Gifts has been carrying Michel Design Works from the beginning.  The exceptional designs and packaging makes Michel Designs gift worthy for every occasion and decor.  Her home furnishings line include pillows, melamine serving pieces, candles, reed diffusers, kitchen textiles and paper hostess napkins.  We also carry her lines of scented personal care items like lotions, soaps, body lotions and creams that coordinate with her home items.

Anne Koplik Designs

Anne Koplik Designs began in the early 1980s when Anne was a young woman in New York City.  Inspired by her mother, a NYC milliner in the 1920s, Anne had an eye for classic, vintage designs and quickly sold out at her sister's Cedarhurst, NY boutique. 

Now in business with her daughters Jill and Kara, Anne Koplik still designs and creates jewelry by American artisans and uses Swarvoski crystals in her creations. Anne's designs are glamorous enough to be featured on "Dancing with the Stars" and wearable enough for daily wear sparkle.

AKD Gives is Anne Koplik Design's charitable foundation that supports many worthy causes in the New York area. Hummingbird Floral and Gifts was thrilled to add Anne Koplik's line of jewelry in 2015.

US!

Lugene Olson started this floral business in 2010, and we have been very blessed to have been welcomed by the community.  We love being your local florist!

This is just a small taste of the women-owned businesses we carry at our store.  Come by to check out these products and more!

All guests this Thursday can pick up a complimentary rose in celebration of women-led business.

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

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.

Valentine's Day is TOMORROW!

Are you ready for Valentine's Day?  Only twenty-four hours to go, and we here at Hummingbird have been busy prepping flowers and putting together arrangements for the big day. 

Don't have a plan?  Don't worry.  Come on in the store for grab-and-go arrangements, loose flowers, plus tons of chocolate, candies and gifts for that special someone. 

This Valentine's, we're grateful for all of our customers.  It doesn't matter if you'e coming in for a small vase bouquet or a romantic extravaganza, we want to help you show your love for the special person in your life.

Come on in tomorrow and join the party!

-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