Tuesday, July 24, 2007

Last Week for our Photo Contest!

I would just like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who participated in Beneva's "Fun in the Sun" photo contest. The entries have been unBENEVAble! I've included a couple samples here for everyone to see just a small sample of the many, funny, cute and breath taking summer photos we have recieved so far. In fact if you want to see all of the entries please take a second and click HERE.

Are they not amazing? The response has been amazing. Unfortuanetly the last day for everyone to get their photos in will be this Friday, July 27th. I just want to remind everyone that the Ggrand prize winner will recieve $100 American Express gift card, that can be used anywhere! In addition to this you'll be awarded one of our Beneva Signature Design Sunflower bouquets. Gorgeous flowers, a 100 dollars to spend and seieng your picture on Beneva.com. What more could you ask for!

Thursday, July 19, 2007

The Origins of Christmas in July

The term Christmas in July is usually thrown around for a Summer Sale or an opportunity to purchase holiday items at discounted prices. While many stores are running this promotion, including Beneva Flowers, very few know the origins of the term.

Christmas in July is actually an unofficial holiday in the US. When celebrated, mostly by young people, it's generally on July 26, Saint Joachim and Saint Anne’s day, Jesus´ grandparents. Many people do not celebrate this time, however, and even among those that do, it is far less important than Christmas.

In some parts of Australia and New Zealand where Christmas typically occurs in their summer months, they use the term "Christmas in July" as an opportunity to celebrate traditional Christmas activities. Why some of you may think it’s just bizarre to think of Christmas without Snowman, cuddling by the fire, or big home cooked meals, here in Sarasota we're used to a "Sunny" Christmas.

McMurdo Station in Antarctica also celebrates Christmas in July. The tradition started due to delivery problems. July is the middle of winter in Antarctic’s and the high winds and ice made it too dangerous for planes to land and deliver supplies. Instead planes would parachute deliveries, which of course reminded everyone at the station of "Santa" delivering Christmas gifts.

So when you're picking up a discounted singing snowman, an elegant Lenox Tree, or some beautiful Gorham votives remember to thank our friends from the other side of the globe for Christmas in July.

Thursday, July 12, 2007

Sunflowers: A Summer Specialty!

Sunflower arrangements are one of the most requested items for flower shops in the summer. These beautiful flowers are among the oldest to be grown in North America and have a wonderful history in our country.

Native Americans used Sunflowers for food and oil, and often used the seeds to feed their livestock. Today we continue to use sunflower seeds to make oil and also as a form of a snack for both humans and birds. The plentiful supply of sunflower seeds can be attributed to the fact that each flower head consists of about 1,000 to 2,000 seeds.

The popularity of Sunflowers comes from their reputation of being one of the fastest growing plants. Within a six month time span they can reach between 8 and 12 feet. The tallest recorded Sunflower was actually grown in The Netherlands. The Sunflower grew to an astonishing size of 25 feet and 5.5 inches.

The scientific name of sunflowers is Helianthus, Helia for sun and Anthus for flower. This name comes from the sunflowers well known characteristic of following the sun’s movement. This phenomenon is called heliotropism and is the main reason the flower received its name.

Thursday, July 05, 2007

Do you really need a reason to say I love you?

Most people tend to only buy flowers for important events during the year. Women expect flowers on Valentine's Day. Mom's tend to be dissapointed if there isn't something from their children for Mother's Day. Secretaries Week is an occasion meant for staffs to be rewarded with something beautiful. Wouldn't it be nice if we didn't need a holiday or anniversary to express our love? Shouldn't you show your love all year round?

Well now you can, thanks to Flowers Year Round! We have it set up that you can choose from a seasonal bouquet, orchids, roses, or even a nice blooming plant. Every month your loved one will receive a new arrangement or plant to enjoy. Why wait until you're "supposed" to express emotion? Let those close to you know that your love lasts all year round!

Monday, July 02, 2007

Fun in the Sun!

I just want to say how incredibly excited I am about the response of our summer photo contest. There have been so many great entries so far, check them out here. The deadline for our contest is July 27th and I hope you all have the opportunity to submit a photo. Take the opportunity this Fourth of July to capture that perfect moment that will win you $100 dollar American Express Gift Card and a Beneva Signature Sunflower Bouquet.