As you might be able to notice based on what I wear or my profile banner (Red Sonja) I don't mind red - but red roses disgust me. I have tried to consider why there has been so much hate for red roses over the years, and the idea of being a florist for 3+ years might have done it. People make assumptions that red roses define love or romance, and the assumption is that every woman would love to have a red rose bouquet. Now, before I sound like I hate Valentine's Day or Mother's Day, which often includes this color of rose in abundance, let me share a little more about my history.

Valentine's Day and Mother's Day was the time of the year where I worked countless hours, and to no end. I had tons of cuts on my hands and arms from cleaning the thorns. The tools we used at the floral shop worked well, but if you weren't paying attention the thorns cut deep, and dripping blood in front of a customer wasn't too appealing. ;)

Now, customers often asked me and other florists I worked with about what they could do to make the occasion special. Some would just get the pre-packaged roses and not realize that it looks rushed. When we actually selected the roses by hand and they were long-stem, that was an extremely hefty bill on the customer, but that showed how special that person was. Often times when people would ask how to make the already pre-packaged roses special (lol, these were normally 9.99 on sale back then), we told them to remove it from the pre-packing and add some baby's breath to fill it out. We also added a nice bow to this, and all of this cost a little extra. Customers came back days later with feedback about what a difference there was with the person who received the roses.

Now that you understand my idea of what makes it special,. assuming that red roses is more romantic should not be the case. Every woman (and man) see beauty in flowers differently. I find that the white with red tipped rose or white with white tipped rose provide so much more brilliance on making an impression on someone. The blend of colors shows that you're interested in that person, but it also gives much more of a mystery. And, if you wanted to get more technical on believing what the meaning is behind the white and red tipped rose, google for the definition.

I also find that other types of flowers in a bouquet make it so much more thoughtful when there's a rose here and there, and not taking up the entire bouquet. And, a single rose means much more than a bouquet of roses, I am however different than other women, but that just goes to show that every guy and gal should get to know their special someone's preferences prior to buying flowers for them. And, buy that person flowers no matter what kind of holiday it is. Guys tend to think female gamers don't appreicate the little things like flowers, and get in a whole lot of trouble for it!

I hope you have a great Valentine's Day! If you're interested in getting some schwag, we're giving away some goodies today!