Happy Tulip Day!

Bringing light to an otherwise ominous Friday the 13^th today is Tulip Day! Now I know they are coming to the end of their season, but in the spirit of things... Whether you’re buying them from the store or plucking them from your garden, here are a few tips on the nature of tulips as cut flowers and how to display them in your home.

Tips & Tricks:
- Tulips continue growing after being cut so don’t be surprised if the arrangement looks different in the following days.
- The flowers drift toward the light.
- They are open wide during the day and closed at night.
- If purchasing, buy tulips that are just starting to bud for a longer lifespan.
- Flower food is not necessary but they soak up a lot of water so check the water level daily.
- Keep away from sources of heat.
- Tulips typically last 3-7 days but I’ve heard that putting a penny in the bottom of the vase will prolong their life.

For the full article, visit Tulips as Cut Flowers on About.com. For vases, I recommend Old Time Pottery, Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel, and Target. Happy Tulip Day!

Best of Both Worlds: Beige Cut-Outs

Beige, tan, flesh tone- whatever you want to call it, it's everywhere this season. Although the color was around last year, this year it is being combined with the cut-out trend. The marriage of these two allows for style and breathability, ensuring that you can wear these beauties in comfort all Summer long. It truly is the best of both worlds.

From left to right: Naughty Monkey Heaven on Earth Bootie, $80; Paris Hilton Marley Pump, $60; L.A.M.B. Love Pump, $190; L.A.M.B. Lucas Pump, $190; Steve Madden Darra Wedge Sandal, $70; Envy Rollin Wedge Sandal, $80; MIA Cari Sandal, $45; Dereon Heritage Sandal, $70.

All styles can be found at DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse or online at DSW.com.

What are your Mother's Day plans?

If you're still contemplating what to do for that special woman in your life, your time is running out. We are here to help. Krohn Conservatory has a beautiful "Butterflies of Brazil" show running until June 16th, and on Mother's Day they get in free! For all those accompanying Mom, admission is only $6.00. If you visit their website, you'll even find a $1.00 off coupon. ( I hope my Mom doesn't decide to look at this blog for the fist time this weekend, my surprise will be ruined! I did it for you.)

For more information on the butterfly show, directions to Krohn Conservatory, or for access to the coupon, visit their website at butterflyshow.com.

What are your Mother's Day plans?

Graphic Prints for Spring

This season, we seem to be stepping away from the traditional floral prints in exchange for some much bolder graphics. Easter's pastels have been tossed aside as tribal earth tones take the lead. Here is a peak at what you may see in stores this season.

All shoes featured here can be found at Aldoshoes.com. From left to right (style name, price): Aksuma $60, Corington $50, Giacoletti $60, Jaylona $80, Magen $45, Sobeslava $125, Tong $80, Wyatta $60.

Nontraditional Wedding Centerpieces

Someday soon (we hope), the rain will slow down and make room for warm, sunny days and vibrant colors. With good weather come good spirits and lots of weddings. With what seems like a never-ending economic drought, we are forced to be creative. Here are some simple, alternative wedding centerpieces for inspiration.