Foxgloves Flowers

A Uniquely Victorian Flower Shop | Florist Victoria BC

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February 20, 2025

Bloom Beautifully, Sustainably: Crafting an Eco-Conscious Wedding

lavender toss petals 300x179 - Bloom Beautifully, Sustainably: Crafting an Eco-Conscious WeddingWeddings are celebrations of love, commitment, and the beginning of a new chapter. But amidst the joy and excitement, it’s easy to overlook the environmental impact of this often extravagant event. The good news is that celebrating sustainably doesn’t mean sacrificing style or romance. In fact, embracing eco-conscious practices can infuse your wedding with a deeper sense of meaning and connection, aligning perfectly with the values championed at events like the Kinder Wedding Conference in Victoria, BC, which I had the pleasure of attending a few weeks ago.

The Kinder Wedding Conference, a beacon of positive change in the wedding industry, highlights the importance of bringing belonging and connection into every aspect of your special day. It emphasizes prioritizing joy and emotion over perfection, a sentiment that resonates deeply with the growing movement towards sustainable weddings. Events, they argue, should feel as good as they look – and a sustainable approach can help ensure both.

In this blog, I want to explore how to create a wedding that is beautiful, memorable, and kind to the planet, focusing specifically on the often-overlooked environmental impact of wedding flowers. We’ll delve into the benefits of locally sourced blooms, explore ways to reduce your carbon footprint, and offer practical steps to make your wedding truly sustainable.

The Unsustainable Truth About Wedding Flowers

local flowers and foliage  262x300 - Bloom Beautifully, Sustainably: Crafting an Eco-Conscious Wedding

Traditionally, wedding flowers are a significant source of waste and environmental impact. Many blooms are flown in from across the globe, contributing to a considerable carbon footprint. The use of pesticides and herbici

des in their cultivation further harms the environment, impacting biodiversity and soil health. Post-ceremony, the vast majority of flowers end up in landfills, contributing to methane emissions.

This is where conscious choices come into play. By embracing sustainability, couples can minimize their impact and create a wedding that reflects their values. We, at Foxgloves are trying to do our part in making wedding florals as eco conscious as we can. We grow as many blooms here on our land as we can , employing spray free and earth friendly practices such as compost tea, vermiculture and drip irrigation to cut down on water usage. We embrace the “GROWN NOT FLOWN” mentality.

Choosing Locally Sourced Flowers: A Petal-Perfect Choice

foraged and locally grown flowers 300x300 - Bloom Beautifully, Sustainably: Crafting an Eco-Conscious WeddingOne of the most impactful changes you can make is choosing locally sourced flowers. Supporting local florists means reducing the transportation miles associated with imported blooms. This significantly decreases your carbon footprint and helps support local businesses and economies, which is so important in these challenging economic times.

Furthermore, locally grown flowers are often more sustainable in their cultivation practices. Local florists are more likely to employ environmentally friendly methods, minimizing the use of harmful chemicals and prioritizing soil health. They also often work with seasonal varieties, ensuring that your flowers are at their peak beauty and reducing the need for forced blooms.

Reducing Your Carbon Footprint: Beyond Local Blooms

Minimizing your floral carbon footprint goes beyond just sourcing locally. Consider these additional steps:

  • Rent, Don’t Buy: Consider renting arches, vases and containers for your ceremony and reception, reducing waste and cost. Many florists offer this service, allowing you to enjoy your beautiful arrangements without contributing to unnecessary disposal.
  • Choose Sustainable Packaging: Opt for biodegradable or compostable packaging for your flowers. Avoid excessive plastic wrapping and ribbons.
  • Repurpose and Compost:  Don’t let your beautiful flowers go to waste. Work with your florist to donate arrangements to hospitals, nursing homes, or shelters. Alternatively, compost your flowers after the event to enrich your garden or a local community garden.
  • Incorporate Alternatives: Consider supplementing or even replacing traditional cut flowers with sustainable alternatives, such as potted plants that guests can take home as favors. This reduces waste and provides a lasting memento. Even incorporating fresh produce such as radicchio is a fun way to showcase local product.

The Power of the Green Wedding Swaps Guide

Resources like the Green Wedding Swaps Guide provide invaluable support and information for couples committed to creating an eco-conscious wedding. They offer a wealth of advice, vendor listings, and tips for planning a sustainable and stylish celebration. The guide serves as a definitive resource for navigating the world of sustainable wedding planning, simplifying a task that can seem overwhelming.

Using an Eco Wedding Calculator

Various online tools, such as this eco wedding calculator from Mindfully Wed , can help quantify your wedding’s environmental impact. By inputting details about your venue, transportation, food choices, and flowers, you can get a clearer picture of your carbon footprint and identify areas for improvement. These calculators are important step in making informed decisions about your unique event.

Embracing Imperfection, Prioritizing Joy

radicchio 22blooms22 236x300 - Bloom Beautifully, Sustainably: Crafting an Eco-Conscious WeddingThe Kinder Wedding Conference powerfully emphasizes the importance of prioritizing joy and emotion over perfection. A perfectly curated, flawlessly executed wedding is less important than a celebration that resonates with your values, feels authentic, and reflects the love you share. Sustainable choices often align with this philosophy. Focusing on the essence of your union rather than adhering to unrealistic aesthetic standards ultimately leads to a more meaningful and memorable day.

A sustainable wedding needn’t be complicated or less beautiful. It’s about making conscious choices that reflect your values and minimize your environmental impact while celebrating your love in a way that feels authentic and joyful. Sourcing flowers locally, minimizing waste, and prioritizing experiences over material possessions will not only reduce your carbon footprint but will also contribute to a wedding that is uniquely yours and deeply resonant.

Beyond the Flowers: A Holistic Approach to Sustainability

potted succulent favours 300x193 - Bloom Beautifully, Sustainably: Crafting an Eco-Conscious Wedding

While this blog post focuses on flowers, sustainability extends to all aspects of your wedding. Consider these broader factors:

  • Venue: Choose a venue with sustainable practices, such as eco-friendly energy sources and waste reduction programs.
  • Food: Opt for locally sourced, seasonal food and minimize food miles.
  • Transportation: Encourage guests to carpool or use public transportation.
  • Favors: Choose eco-friendly favors, such as plants, seeds, or handmade items.
  • Stationery: Use recycled or plantable paper for invitations and other stationery.

By taking a holistic approach to sustainability, you can create a wedding that not only looks beautiful but also feels good, reflecting your commitment to environmental responsibility and creating a celebration that is truly unforgettable. The journey to a sustainable wedding may require more research and planning, but the reward—a beautiful, meaningful event that aligns with your values and benefits the planet—is invaluable. Embrace the journey, embrace the joy, and create a wedding that you, your guests, and the planet will cherish.

By: Colleen · Filed Under: Flowers by Foxgloves, Hot Topics, Photos by Colleen O'Farrell, Uncategorized · Tagged: eco wedding, environmentally conscious weddings, green wedding flowers, green weddings, grown not flown, kinder wedding confrenece, locally sourced flowers, support local, sustainable

October 9, 2024

Winter Wreath Workshops for 2024

We are thrilled to announce our Winter Wreath Workshops for 2024!

This year we are pleased to be offering 3 types of wreath workshops in 2 different locations! We will be teaching at the Foxgloves Studio as well as at The Gorge Pavilion!

  • We have our always popular West Coast Winter Wreath Workshop- Always a favourite!
  • Our New Luxe Woodland Wreath Workshop- a bigger and more full version of our West Coast Winter Wreath with more accents and decorations and foliage.
  • AND a fun new Petite Whimsical Mushroom Wreath!

We will be teaching during The Winter Bazaar at The Gorge Pavilion where we will also have a fun booth for shopping along with many other talented local vendors.  Come and check it out at see what is new and creative in the local community this season and pick up a few gifts and stocking stuffers!

This Years Line Up:

West Coast Winter Wreath at Foxgloves Flowers Studio

West Coast Winter Wreath Foxgloves Flowers 1 190x300 - Winter Wreath Workshops for 2024Join us at The Foxgloves Studio to jump start your holiday spirit with a West Coast Winter Wreath Workshop. Make your own decadent wreath from an abundance of fresh fragrant greenery, dried accents and ribbon while making new like-minded friends.
All materials provided. We just need your creativity! You will leave with the knowledge and skills to make your very own gorgeous wreath and your own personal masterpiece!

              • All materials and tools will be provided. We just need your creativity!
              • Class Dates: Saturday Nov 23 at 2PM or Sunday Nov 24th at 2PM
              • Location: Foxgloves Studio 2825 Heath Drive Victoria BC
              • Cost: $85 plus taxes = $95.20
              • Each class runs for 2 hours to allow you ample time for your creations!
              • Maximum class size of 8 students.
              • Please note: Due of the intimate size of the class and perishable nature of the the product we will not be able to offer refunds or credits if you find yourself unable to attend. Thank you for your understanding
              • Click Here to ReserveYour Spot!

 

Luxe West Coast Winter Wreath at Foxgloves Flowers StudioLuxe West Coast Winter Wreath Foxgloves Flowers 292x300 - Winter Wreath Workshops for 2024

Join us at The Foxgloves Studio to jump start your holiday spirit with a Luxe Winter Wreath Workshop. Make your own decadent wreath from an abundance of fresh fragrant greenery, dried accents, ornaments and ribbon while making new like-minded friends.
All materials provided. We just need your creativity! You will leave with the knowledge and skills to make your very own gorgeous wreath and your own personal masterpiece!

              • All materials and tools will be provided. We just need your creativity!
              • Class Dates: Saturday Nov 23 at 10AM or Sunday Nov 24th at 10AM
              • Location: Foxgloves Studio 2825 Heath Drive Victoria BC
              • Cost: $120 plus taxes = $134.40
              • Each class runs for 2 hours to allow you ample time for your creations!
              • Maximum class size of 8 students.
              • Please note: Due of the intimate size of the class and perishable nature of the the product we will not be able to offer refunds or credits if you find yourself unable to attend. Thank you for your understanding
              • Click Here to Reserve Your Spot!

West Coast Winter Wreath at Gorge Pavilion

West Coast Winter Wreath Foxgloves Flowers 1 190x300 - Winter Wreath Workshops for 2024Join us at The Gorge Pavilion during the Fernwood Makers Market Winter Bazaar to jump start your holiday spirit with a West Coast Winter Wreath Workshop. Make your own wreath from an abundance of fresh greenery, dried accents and ribbon while making new like-minded friends.
All materials provided. We just need your creativity! You will leave with the knowledge and skills to make your very own gorgeous wreath and your own personal masterpiece!

              • All materials and tools will be provided. We just need your creativity!
              • Class Dates: Saturday Nov 30 at 1:30PM or Sunday Dec 1st at 1:30PM
              • Location: Gorge Pavilion Address: 1070 Tillicum Rd, Victoria, BC V9A 2A1
              • Cost: $85 plus taxes = $95.20
              • Each class runs for 2 hours to allow you ample time for your creations!
              • Maximum class size of 18 students.
              • Please note: Due of the intimate size of the class and perishable nature of the the product we will not be able to offer refunds or credits if you find yourself unable to attend. Thank you for your understanding
              • *Special Note: There is a $5 entry fee for the Yuletide Market payable at the door.
              • Click Here to Reserve Your Spot!

 

Luxe West Coast Winter Wreath at Gorge Pavilion

Luxe West Coast Winter Wreath Foxgloves Flowers 292x300 - Winter Wreath Workshops for 2024Join us at The Gorge Pavilion during the Fernwood Winter Bazaar to jump start your holiday spirit with a Luxe Winter Wreath Workshop. Make your own decadent wreath from an abundance of fresh fragrant greenery, dried accents, ornaments and ribbon while making new like-minded friends.
All materials provided. We just need your creativity! You will leave with the knowledge and skills to make your very own gorgeous wreath and your own personal masterpiece!

              • All materials and tools will be provided. We just need your creativity!
              • Class Dates: Saturday Nov 30 at 10:30AM or Sunday Dec 1st at 10:30AM
              • Location: Gorge Pavilion Address: 1070 Tillicum Rd, Victoria, BC V9A 2A1
              • Cost: $120 plus taxes = $134.40
              • Each class runs for 2 hours to allow you ample time for your creations!
              • Maximum class size of 18 students.
              • Please note: Due of the intimate size of the class and perishable nature of the the product we will not be able to offer refunds or credits if you find yourself unable to attend. Thank you for your understanding
              • *Special Note: There is a $5 entry fee for the Yuletide Market payable at the door.
              • Click Here to Reserve Your Spot!

Petite Whimsical Mushroom Wreath at Gorge Pavilion- Sip and Shop Evening

Petite Whimsical Mushroom Wreath Foxgloves Flowers 266x300 - Winter Wreath Workshops for 2024

Join us at The Gorge Pavilion during the Fernwood Makers Market Sip and Shop Evening. Make your own petite and whimsical woodland wreath from an abundance of fresh greenery, moss and adorable mushroom accents while making new like-minded friends and having a fun evening!
All materials provided. We just need your creativity! You will leave with the knowledge and skills to make your very own gorgeous wreath and your own personal masterpiece!

              • Class Dates: Friday Nov 29th at 7PM
              • Location: Gorge Pavilion Address: 1070 Tillicum Rd, Victoria, BC V9A 2A1
              • Cost: $50 plus taxes = $56
              • Class runs for 1 hour to allow you ample time for your creations!
              • Maximum class size of 18 students.
              • Please note: Due of the intimate size of the class and perishable nature of the the product we will not be able to offer refunds or credits if you find yourself unable to attend. Thank you for your understanding
              • *Special Note: There is an $11 entry fee for the Yuletide Market Sip and Shop evening payable at the door
              • Click Here to Reserve Your Spot!

By: Colleen · Filed Under: Hot Topics, Uncategorized · Tagged: blog, eucalyptus, Gold, green, holiday decor, Red, Victoria BC, Winter Wreath Workshops for 2024, wreath, wreath class victoria bc, wreath workshop victoria bc

April 17, 2024

Amazing News! Saanich has allowed farm stands to stay!

Roadside produce stands, pop-up farm markets get green light in Saanich

*This was the headline in the Times Colonist this morning, April 17th 2024.

Read the TC article here

After four years of anticipation, the residents of Saanich are celebrating a significant milestone: the approval of permanent roadside stands. This long-awaited decision marks a triumph for local businesses like Foxgloves Flowers and a testament to the power of community advocacy.

The journey to this momentous occasion has been a journey of patience and perseverance. Since the onset of the pandemic, temporary bylaws allowed for roadside stands to flourish, providing a vital lifeline for businesses like Foxgloves Flowers. What began as a makeshift solution during uncertain times quickly evolved into a beloved local institution, fostering a sense of community and connection among neighbors.

B34B93BC C53A 4152 84FD 02F0924387CB 225x300 - Amazing News!  Saanich has allowed farm stands to stay!

For businesses like Foxgloves Flowers, the roadside stand became more than just a place to sell products—it became a beacon of hope and resilience. It provided a safe and welcoming space for neighbors to gather, shop, and support local agriculture. As Colleen O’Farrell, owner of Foxgloves Flowers, reflects, “It has been amazing having a little farm stand, which started quite by accident during the pandemic, but became a local fixture in the neighborhood.”

The approval of permanent roadside stands signifies more than just a regulatory change; it represents a shift towards a more sustainable and community-oriented approach to commerce. By allowing homegrown products to be shared within neighborhoods, Saanich Council has demonstrated its commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering a vibrant sense of community.

As Colleen O’Farrell expresses, “I, for one, am so glad that the Saanich Council has approved the new bylaw to allow for homegrown products to be shared within our neighborhoods. Yay Saanich!” This sentiment is echoed by many residents who have come to rely on the convenience and quality of locally sourced goods.

Moving forward, the permanent presence of roadside stands promises to enrich the fabric of Saanich’s neighborhoods, providing residents with access to fresh, locally grown produce and flowers. Moreover, it serves as a testament to the power of grassroots advocacy and community engagement in shaping the future of our cities.

In conclusion, the green light for permanent roadside stands in Saanich is not just a victory for local businesses—it is a triumph for community, resilience, and the spirit of collaboration. As we embrace this new era of sustainable commerce, let us celebrate the resilience of our community and the boundless potential of collective action.

If you have time, tune in tomorrow to CBC All Points West with Jason D’Sousa and listen to Colleen chat with him!

By: Colleen · Filed Under: Hot Topics, News, Press, Uncategorized · Tagged: Local agricultiure, local business, Roadside Stands, Saanich Council, sustainable approach to commerce

April 17, 2024

Unlocking the Victorian Language of Flowers: A Timeless Tale of Sentiments and Symbolism

The Language of Flowers Floriography 1 300x232 - Unlocking the Victorian Language of Flowers: A Timeless Tale of Sentiments and SymbolismIn the Victorian era, when words often went unspoken, the language of flowers flourished as a means of communication. Each bloom held a hidden message, allowing individuals to convey their feelings and sentiments through the careful selection and arrangement of flowers. This intricate floral code, known as floriography, captured the imagination of poets, lovers, and romantics alike, offering a secret language of love, friendship, and expression.

Floriography gained prominence in the early 19th century, reaching its zenith during the reign of Queen Victoria. With societal norms dictating strict decorum and restraint, the language of flowers provided a socially acceptable outlet for expressing emotions that might otherwise remain unspoken. From courtship rituals to mourning traditions, flowers played a central role in Victorian culture, serving as both symbols of affection and conveyors of subtle messages.

At the heart of floriography lies the belief that each flower carries its own unique significance, with different blooms symbolizing specific emotions, virtues, or sentiments. For example, the red rose, long associated with love and passion, conveyed romantic affection, while the delicate lily of the valley represented purity and sweetness. Whether gifted in a bouquet, worn as a corsage, or arranged in a floral design, the choice of flowers spoke volumes about the sender’s intentions and feelings.

To delve deeper into the enchanting world of floriography, one need only consult a comprehensive guide to the meanings of flowers. Websites like Foxgloves Flowers offer a wealth of information on the symbolism and significance of various blooms, allowing modern-day enthusiasts to decipher the hidden messages behind their favorite flowers. From roses to daisies, each entry provides insight into the rich tapestry of meanings woven into the Victorian language of flowers.

For example, the elegant peony, with its lush petals and intoxicating fragrance, symbolizes prosperity, good fortune, and a happy marriage. Meanwhile, the humble daisy, with its cheerful demeanor and innocent beauty, represents purity, innocence, and new beginnings. By understanding the symbolic language of each flower, individuals can imbue their floral arrangements with deeper meaning and significance, transforming a simple bouquet into a heartfelt expression of emotion.

In addition to its romantic associations, floriography also played a role in mourning and remembrance. Certain flowers, such as the white lily or the forget-me-not, were commonly used to convey condolences and honor the memory of the departed. By selecting flowers with the appropriate symbolism, mourners could express their grief and offer solace to those in mourning, even in the absence of spoken words.

Though the Victorian era has long since passed, the language of flowers continues to captivate and inspire to this day. Whether used to convey love, friendship, or sympathy, the timeless tradition of floriography serves as a poignant reminder of the power of nature to express the deepest emotions of the human heart. So the next time you find yourself selecting flowers for a special occasion or arranging a floral display, take a moment to consider the hidden meanings behind each bloom. You may just discover that the language of flowers speaks louder than words ever could.

By: Colleen · Filed Under: Flowers by Foxgloves, Hot Topics, Uncategorized · Tagged: Floriography, The Language of Flowers, The meaning of flowers

October 20, 2023

Winter Workshops!

We now have a selection of fun winter workshops up on the website!

Tabletop Holiday Trees, West Coast Winter Wreaths, Earthy and Chic Contemporary Tablescapes…take your pick, they are all fun, challenging and a great way to spend some time making some new friends, learning some new skills and feeding your creative spirit!

Sign up now as spaces are limited!

Book Now

Table Top Tree  241x300 - Winter Workshops! Earthy Contemporary Tablescape 231x300 - Winter Workshops!

By: Colleen · Filed Under: Hot Topics, Uncategorized · Tagged: christmas wreath, classes, classes victoria bc, floral design, floral design class, floral design workshop, holiday, holiday decor, table top tree workshop, tablescape workshop, winter workshops, workshops, wreath workshop

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