Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.

RIGHT: New Online Florist Products
BELOW: Prickly Pear Products

When Sarah and I developed Prickly Pear we both made one unanimous decision. We wanted to start new trends, not follow them. We both felt frustrated that almost all e-commerce flower sites contain the same- or similar- products. We wanted to change this. After Sarah moved on from Prickly Pear I ensured that every new development or product addition followed this simple rule. Stand out, and create trends- never follow... and I am beginning to see the results!

I was very excited to hear an old colleague of mine had launched a new online florist. I had a look today and was overwhelmed by the products! (see above- almost identical to Prickly Pear products below) We acheived our goal! Florists are beginning to sit up and take notice of Prickly Pear.....as they say, Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery....

Bouvardia

Its difficult to find beautiful Bouvardia in Australia. Bouvardia is a sweet smelling white flower ( similar to Jasmine ) and is a personal favourite. The only problem is that it tends to be bruised here, and often does not hold up to our weather. It was with great jealousy that I saw this gorgeous bouquet with stunning Bouvardia by Amy Hall from "Bloemen Ecke The Florist" in Edinburgh.

Absolutely beautiful!

http://www.bloemenecke.com/

The struggles of finding Dad a present....

Fathers Day is coming up, and I always struggle to find a present for my Dad. He loves his garden ( they have won awards for their gardening! ) so usually either a gardening book, or a beautiful orchid plant are my gifts of choice.

This year, I think I'll send both! http://www.wishlist.com.au/ have fantastic gardening books- including this gem I just discovered "The Green Gardener" by Josh Byrne. They also deliver fabulous potted plants in the flower department. Problem solved!

The Return of "Babies Breath"???????

Since the late 80's, and due to its over-use, Babies Breath or "Gyp" has been a fordidden flower for florists the world over. Its one of those flowers you could never admit to liking, and especially not using. I personally dont find it offensive at all- I love all flowers, even those that have have been used poorly over the years. Lately though, Ive seen a swing back towards the old Babies Breath. With all the current trends being very floral and Victorian, and a move away from the organic, I really feel it is due for a comeback....I saw this arrangement from http://www.nextflowers.co.uk/ and I dare say ( even if I lose all credability ) that I rather like it!

"Pink Jumbo Cup & Saucer
This Pink Polka Dot Jumbo Ceramic Tea Cup & Saucer, is a novel floral arrangement with an impressive display of a dozen gorgeous pink roses with foliage. This would make a fantastic gift for someone special...
£40.00"

Candles from Pink Frosting

A perfect gift for guests at your wedding.

https://www.pinkfrosting.com.au/proddetail.php?prod=20032WT&cat=145

"A super sophisticated set of four white wedding candles. Utterly classic and delicately fragranced, this set of four tea light candles brings the right touch of class to any reception table."

Wedding Cakes

I lost count many years ago, how many brides I have the pleasure of working with. It is such a stressful time for all concerned and brings me so much happiness to see a bride overjoyed by her wedding flowers. I always pay close attention to the other details of the wedding, particularily the cake. Im a bit of a foodie these days, and I must say for all the delicious looking cakes I have seen, I have seen plenty of shockers! I was stoked when I came across the girls at BabyCakes in Elwood Victoria. Finally, a cake supplier worth recommending!- c\Check them out!

http://www.babycakesbydesign.com.au/

Its Tulip Season!

Its the perfect time for Tulips in Australia! This product "Rococco" from www.pricklypear.com.au is sensational value and makes for a stunning gift. In peak season Tulips can last up to 2 weeks. Enjoy!

Welcome!!!!!

Welcome to my blog! I have been a florist for 14 years now. Im always on the look out for new and inspiring trends. My company http://www.pricklypear.com.au/ has been running for almost 3 years now, and in that time Ive been reviewed and mentioned on many blogs. I guess I thought I should return the favour. Ive made it past the 2 year mark, and hope I can help other creative businesses succeed.

Here goes..............................