February 22, 2010

A New Old-Fashioned Flower


 
Thanks to the past decade's revival of the carnation as a "retro classic", these long-shunned flowers have gained admittance into even the most stylish floral design studios- that is, provided they keep to sleek domes of tightly packed petals. Dare to show a bud, stem, or calyx, though, and they're right back to being the tacky Teleflora flowers that people love to hate.

I can understand the aversion- we've all seen carnations badly abused (usually there's Oasis involved). But that's not the way it has to be.  I took a cue from the Victorians- huge fans of the carnation- and threw these guys into a simple vase for a romantic, natural, and sweet effect. As a major added plus, some modern carnations even retain a touch of the spicy-sweet clove scent of heirloom varieties, garden pinks, and the tragically discontinued Roger&Gallet Eillet Mignardise soap. So even if it makes me look uncool, I'm fighting the good fight for the old-fashioned carnation.

 

5 comments:

  1. Very lovely bouquet. I can smell the fragrance in my mind. Did they really discontinue that soap? How sad.

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  2. Welcome, Gale! Yes, unfortunately, I believe that soap is no longer being made. If you have any left, savor it!

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  3. I understand the sentiment, but I hope you don't think all of our designs earn the designation of flowers people love to hate! That is a lovely display of carns. Have a great day, and beautiful blog you've got going!

    -Nicole at Teleflora

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  4. Greetings, Nicole! Thank you for your kind words. Certainly you folks represent an industry standard that many people enjoy. Hopefully together we can change the public perception of the carnation for the better! All the best to you, and please visit again.

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  5. I loooove pinks! My mother always grew them in planters on the back porch when I was growing up in Napa. I love the muted, powdery blue-green of their foliage, and the subtle, spicy scent you describe; what a calm, classic, beautiful flower.

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