UDesignBlog with Ardith

Upcoming classes at Institute of Floristry

2012-02-01T18:43:00.000-08:00

Day Wedding Celebration---February 20-24
Day Wedding Ceremony---February 27-27
Day Basic Design---March 5-8
Day Today's Tribute--( Sympathy and larger designs) March 12-14
Evening Business Basics---( Required to graduate with the Diploma) March 5,6,8,13,14,15
Evening Bridal Bouquet---March 5,6,8,13,14,15

Koehler & Dramm Wholesale Florist Spring Wedding Show with Rane Van Rems, World class designer Sunday March 4, 2012

Professional Floral Designer of The Year phase II Design Competition will be at Minneapolis Home and Garden Show Saturday evening on the main stage. Come watch the creativity of the 6 talented finaists. Vote for your personal favorite finished design for Peoples Choice winne

Timi

2012-02-01T18:40:00.000-08:00

I received a note from Timi, they were in Amsterdam, excited to be back to visit with her and Tamas's family. Each day we are closer to having them back.We will have updates from her .

Class at Chicago Avenue Fire Arts Center

2012-02-01T18:20:00.000-08:00

Class today was excellent at www.cafac.com with Heather the instructor. This was our fourth week. Week one and two was filled with safety and learning about respecting the products and tools, experimenting with the torches. The third week , more education and practice, and declaration of our projects. Last week we had a field trip to Ambles Machinery , 2109 South Cedar Ave. Minneapolis 55412, to find materials to create with. It is an amazing fun place to be , Jim the owner knows everything he has and where it is.
I choose some steel rods and a sheet of steel to make vessels to design in. I have always wanted to create something with steel and welding. I was going to make a headboard for my bed, the vessels are something I can finish in the 10 week class period.
Week four Heather introduced us to the grinder, drill press,cutters,blades,tools, I love tools. I measured and cut out my steel bases with the torch cutter. My cuts are very creative, not straight. I will practice on straight.Then she showed me how to run the drill press and put holes in each base. Next week I will secure the poles in the bases and begin to cut the steel for the vases. I will take pictures.
Stop by CAFAC in the old Nokomos theatre building at 3749 Chicago Ave. Minneapolis 55407. There is a gift and display area plus a darling Irish lass to guide you in your visit .I recommend highly looking into taking classes. The facility is a bit over a year old and still growing, adding new classes .
Love those sparks, they are many patterns and colors.

Ardith at Chicago Avenue Fire Arts Center

2012-01-30T06:38:00.000-08:00

Something that I have always wanted to do, thought of for so long is to take a class to learn how to weld, solder, braise to make my own vessels to design in. The Chicago Ave Fire Arts Center www.cafac.com is located on Chicago Avenue in the old Nokomos Theatre building. There are classes day, evening and weekends. Look at their website for more information. They have an area they show and sell all type of fire art projects from jewelry to stained glass to sculptures.

There are 8 students to a class, men and women of all ages and skill levels. This is another reason it is so fun. The main focus is safety, education and creating. Everything you will need is there. Each student chooses the project they want to complete within the 10 week class schedule. We went on a wonderful field trip to Ambles Machinery and Hardware to choose the materials for our individual projects. Heather, the instructor is with us each step for guidance and direction.This week , number 4 we begin our projects. Up to now we are learning about safety procedures and practicing with the tools and torches. My " butt weld" was the best one in class, by my own judgement. My torch cutting and soldering need some practice. Some I say--no a lot !!!

The outfits are interesting, nothing matches, and everything is for safety. In my imagination I see a line of welding clothes. There are burn holes in them, no open tears,just lots of little holes, boots, and gloves with gauntlets are the best. The safety glasses and # 5 shade glasses are not pretty, but are necessary. Cotton, not synthetic fibers for everything. Go to a second hand store, or your closet, find the painting ,gardening,cleaning the garage clothes,anything is good.

I will post the progress of the project.

Thank you to Duane Boom, one of my friends and students for sharing Chicago Avenue Fire Arts Center information with me.

2012-01-18T18:01:00.000-08:00

go visit bevs new blog, it is here

2011-11-16T09:21:00.000-08:00

More photos - Photo Gallery >>>
http://www.institutefloristry.com/wordpress/?p=1854

11/12/11 Chelmsford England

2011-11-12T12:18:00.000-08:00

The Wedding Day started very early, 5:00AM here with a nice brisk walk. The weather is nice and warm, overcast, no wind. Great day for Emily and Ross to be married.
After my walk, I cleaned up and went to Deborah's house. We had wired and taped beautiful cymbidium orchids for bridesmaids and several table "decks" as they say, decorations.I also made Emily's bridal bouquet of gloriosa. WE were anxious about the lilies holding up. Some were in a bouquet holder but many others were glued into the frame. I glued lily leaves on the back of the bouquet holder. Then I made an armature of silver aluminum wire to wrap around the holder and down almost to the floor for the plumosus and gloriosa support. Tying the armature at intervals with silver metallic wire. With this structure the bouquet may as well been several feet long and it would have been sturdy. The armature was positioned , then held in place by cuttings of the fern for greening and shape. The stems of plumosus were very long and beautiful. 10 nice long stems, from my hip to the floor were 18 pounds, wholesale, a pound is worth $1.60. That is wholesale!!!I glued many pieces of the fern along the frame with the cold glue. The gloriosa lilies were purchased on the stem, also from my hip to the floor in sealed packages of 15 flowers in a package. The flowers were beautiful. Some of the 15 were buds, new green blossoms, but most were the perfect flower. We were concerned at how they will hold up over night. Some stems I put in the foam bouquet holder, many, a lot were glued in the bouquet, on the armature and the fern, no water source. There were 100 blossoms in the bridal bouquet and 8 stems of the plumosus fern. It is the first all lily bouquet that I have ever made. Thank you Emily for an exceptional experience, and knowing it was especially chosen by you was amazing. So I covered it, put it in a cool place.
The flowers were all white for the church with English Lavender, eucalyptus and hearts for the pews,white cyclamen plants with trailing English ivy, white roses,white spray roses, white gerbera,Italian ruscus. Simple, organic and classy.
The flowers for the reception were stunning red roses, hypericum,pinkish calla,pink cymbidium orchids, viburnum,red berries,red spray roses.
Back yo this morning,the cymbidiums had all gone down, every wired one was soft. We took them out, put them in a bath to harden them, which they did harden off, after I cut them all off of the wire. The last flower we ever thought may be sensative was, the gloriosa were perfect, in the bouquet I cut 3 flowers out and glued three in. At the ebd of the night they all looked brilliant!!!! fresh and new in the holder and in the glue. The other flowers were truly perfect.
We decorated the urnails which was a big hit, or miss?? Emily gave Ann, Db and I creative freedom, we took it.
The " Button Holes" for the men were delivered to their prospective homes, the bridal bouquet and bridesmaids were delivered to the brides home. The Best man is in charge of making sure everyone has one. Parents flowers were delivered to their homes. The Town Cars picked up the bride, groom and wedding party, 6 maids and 2 Best men.They had pictures taken at their homes, then came to the church. Everyone was in the church, the groom and Best Men were in the front of the church, Emily came in with her father who stayed with her the entire time. The maids sat in the front pew during the ceremony. They were pronounced man and wife, then went to the main alter with the vicar, then to the side where they signed the papers. The mother of the bride and mother of the groom were the witnesses. We left the church, many photographs, throwing of biodegradable rose petal looking confetti. The town cars took them away to the reception site. We arrived to a line of servers with trays of wine, and appitizers, stood outside on a nice patio area by the golf coarse, more pictures, then into the reception, great set down service meal, speeches, and a really great band, photo booth, everything.Unique to the bride and groom
Tomorrow ( Sunday ) I will head home, good feelings about my experience, and looking forward to coming home. The best of the best.
I will add pictures when I learn how, promise.
Thank you for sharing my trip with me. The shoes were perfect Marge.

11/10/11 England

2011-11-10T10:45:00.000-08:00

This morning on my walk I could see my breath, not really cold, just crisp on the edge. The clouds were so low I was walking through them. Each morning I go a wee bit further, watching the street signs and names. The street manes are low close to the road, say calf high on me, white with black lettering. The names keep entertaining me, with the names, Wills Old Road,
No end Lane, The Fen, Woodhill Close, Stepford Turn. Many of the homes have names. The area where I am living is Parsonage Farm, the cottage I am in is Goose Cottage. The names go with the property so have been the same for many years.
A cottage, small, old style, bungalow is larger and newer, one story, floor. Chalet is a two story house that looks one story on the outside. On Cape Cod they are called Soap houses. Terraced house id larger, with two homes. The Semi,is attached to another house but with a driveway between. Then the detached home, single family, from three to 8 bedrooms, then the Mansions, Manor Houses, Estates,are huge homes. Man of these have areas the owners live in and open the main areas for people to come visit, tour and some are bed and breakfasts, all depending on area, economy.Some have, as many large plantations in Southern US have sold the land in front of and around the main house to keep the main home. The land on each side of the driveway is held on to.
The flowers for the wedding arrived this morning. We cut and processed outside, a bit wet and chilly. I caught a bit of a chill, so came in to do the corsages and bouts inside. The flowers are beautiful. Emily's brides maids dresses are dark navy blue. The maids have handtied of roses, calla, ivy,viburnum ivy,hypericum. The bride is gloriosa lilies and foliages. The flowers are lovely. I will finish them tomorrow, detail it .
There are pictures, I will send them when I can.

11/8 Wednesday Chelmsford, Essex, England

2011-11-09T07:48:00.000-08:00

Up and for a walk, I go in a different direction each day, to know the area better. There are several schools around. The young people walk to school with their uniforms on, several different schools and levels. Some on bikes, or walking alone, many in groups with fun school bags, each unique to themselves.
Ann and I headed to the train station, we were dropped of by a friend in a sweet Fiat, BJ would love that. I will take a picture for him. It was fun traveling on the train to Liverpool Street Station, transfered
to " the tube", the underground to The Covent Garden area of the city where the oldest flower and fruit markets were and still are.
We were going to drive to the flower markets in Belgium today for wedding flowers. Emily wants Gloriosa Lilies in her bouquet, long and trailing , unique. We were not sure if the companies in England will be able to provide the number of blossoms that we want. They are able to, so instead Ann called The Covent Garden Academy of Flowers, a flower design school located in the heart of London, associated with the University of London. It is a wonderful, amazing place with a delightful flower shop at the opening of the building, as in the photo. Keith was in the shop, a charming man. Keith announced our arrival to Gillian Wheeler the school principal . Gillian brought us into the school where there were 4 classes in session. One was a two day wedding design class where the students were listening and watching an instructor teach them how to create a bridal bouquet in a bouquet holder. There were students creating corporate designs, lovely, very creative, another session of creating corsages. They only wire and tape, no glue. The fourth group were creating flowers for a theme, one Swan Lake, another Gone With The Wind, another Sleeping Beauty. Some classes are two day some are 4 day some are one day up to 30 weeks. It is a varied schedule.
We walked around the Old Covent Garden area, bought fruit for lunch. There were people performing, singing, dancing, mime,juggling all over the area. There are some wonderful decorations all over the gardens for Christmas.
Since they do not have Thanksgiving they are all into Christmas, it is lovely, lights and gifts everywhere.
Amazing, one of a kind gift of a day, being able to teach , share time with a good friend.
It was a great trip back home. We worked on the designs for The Bowls Club celebration.
Ann's son Wesley and his wife Emma and two boys asked us to their house for dinner, it was fun, the boys,Noah and Zabe are entertaining and darling.

11/7 Chelmsford Essex England

2011-11-09T06:38:00.000-08:00

11/7--Tuesday-- was a very busy day I will recap . I was up again early to take a nice walk. It is cloudy, a bit rainy, without rain, and beautiful. It is a gift to be walking in England, old England...WOW
We went into London to a plant and tree wholesale house and and to the floral wholesale house to make sure we have the flowers and supplies that we want for Emily's wedding. Ann is involved with the Lawn Bowls Club. She travels with them to participate in tournaments all over Europe.They are having a huge event, we are doing the flowers for that as well.So we picked them all out, containers and all.
On the way home we stopped at Capel Manor College in London. Ann had made an plan to stop there for a visit and for me to talk/lecturer the students of American Design, not a formal lecturer, they wanted to know about the markets in USA , what the designers in shops and event sites do. They wanted to know what they make for wages, if there are jobs, what the designers are to wear, design magazines, everything.It was a very nice time . They were doing some vignettes on wedding d design, we watched, talked and headed for home.
At home we began to moss the letters and hearts to decorate for the wedding. We transplanted trees Monday night so they can settle in before we need them. Each moment is an adventure.
We went to the church for rehearsal Tuesday evening. The Vicar is wonderful, low key, funny and really interested in the young couple and the family. This is a huge family , there 6 brides maids, so lots of fun family. It is an old old country English church with the cemetery right in the front and side yard, just like in the movies. After that we went to the country club to the reception site. We had a delightful dinner of fish and chips, so so good.
When I have another lesson on how to add pictures I will and put the description on each.

11/7

2011-11-07T12:40:00.001-08:00

This morning I was up early taking a nice walk, watching where I was going, stayed on my path and succeeded in not being lost. Yippee
We went to Writtle college this morning , floristry classes were in session. It was great being there again after 3 years, not much has changed in the classrooms, but everything has changed, know what I mean.It is a beautiful facility . Then I was able to share some time and talk to the technicians, lecturers, and staff of the school, see the school store and processing areas.Really wonderful day.
Ann took me to The Beehive Florist here in Chelmsford before we came home. Beautiful shop, great staff, friendly and talented.
We came home, started dinner and went out to transplant some trees for the church for the wedding on Saturday. It is chilly, but rather beautiful. Having my habds in the dirt that smelled so good was fun. Ann and I laughed and hav fun.
Tomorrow we are back to London to wholesale houses to choose flowers for the wedding. Wednesday I will be doing a program at the University of Grennich. I will be at The Academy of Flowers at Covent Gardens.

117

2011-11-07T12:39:00.000-08:00

11/6/2011 pictures

2011-11-06T09:11:00.000-08:00

11/6 Chelmsford , Essex, England

2011-11-06T08:59:00.001-08:00

November 6, 2011, today is my son BJ's birthday. Happy Birthday BJ. I think this may be the first birthday we have not been together. OH well I was there for the first one.
After a lovely night sleep I was up for a walk. I went for a half an hour, staying to the left all of the way out into the country road back to another area. When I turned around to come home, staying to the right I was lost. The English countryside, flowers, trees activity tool a hold of me, captured me right into it all. I walked and walked, finally asking a lovely lady where Broomfield, The Parsonage Farm is?? Her husband bowls with Ann, she turned me around, I was headed towards London. She walked with me and headed me the direction of home. It was a beautiful walk.
The minute I arrived home we left for London, Columbia Road Flower market. An outdoor market where they sell flowers on the street to everyone, yelling out specials. One seller was saying he must pay the rent tomorrow to buy from him. Another was saying the other sellers are selling junk, his are the best. Flowers, plants, trees, anything fresh.
Behind the street market were darling shops of every type food, gift, garden, coffee, custom made clothing.
We stopped at this little coffee market and bakrey for English tea and quiche,and headed home.

11/5/11 Chelmsford England

2011-11-05T11:59:00.000-07:00

Chelmsford England is an hour and 15 minute drive from London. The flight was easy and uneventful, I slept most of the way. Had an isle seat, which I like best. The flight landed as scheduled at noon , it took an hour for customs. Ann and Deb were waiting for me. It was so good to see them.
We drove to Ann's house. I will take pictures. The house she lives in was an old stall/tack house.It was once a stable , barn and carriage house for King Henry the 8Th. Ann lives in the stable, Deb , one daughter and husband re did the barn, and are living in it. The carriage house and area is rented to Michael's partner and family. It is more than amazing. I will learn how to post pictures.
I went for a long walk this late afternoon. They said it is usually rainy and cold this time of the year, but not today. It is cloudy, and warm, many trees still have their beautiful leaves.
It is all so rich in history.
We went to another of Ann's daughters house. Emily, the bride to be and lots of family were there to work on the favors for the wedding.
A custom I learned about is there are a certain number of people, close people invited to the church ceremony, 125. The reception, a set down dinner there will be around 175. After dinner friends and others( friends and anyone that wants to share in the celebration) are invited to come to the dance and party. Great way to include everyone.
Not sure what will happen tomorrow. Next week one day they think we may have to drive to Belgium for flowers. We will go visit several shops around and in London, plus wholesale houses in London. I will teach at a couple colleges in the area. Maybe we can have some teacher come to our classroom to teach some classes!!! That will be very nice, exchange information.

Classes starting October 3, 2011

2011-09-28T07:41:00.001-07:00

The evening basic design class begins October 3, 2011 in the Learning Center at Koehler & Dramm's Institute of Floristry. The class is from 6:00 to 9:00 Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings. There is an evening basic class twice a year, the next will be late spring in 2012. Call Cheryl at 612-362-3133

Floristry 2 week is October 3-7 from 7:00 am to 4:00pm. This advanced design class focuses on the techniques of design while centering in more closely on the principals, secondary principals and elements of design. Beyond the free standing and three sided arrangements. Care and handling of fresh flowers and foliage's continue, advancing into care and handling of speciality crops and tropicals. For more information contact Cheryl at 612-362-3133

North Dakota State Florist Convention (9/8/2011 - 9/11/2011)

2011-09-21T08:36:00.000-07:00

North Dakota State Florist Association convention was held in Jamestown, North Dakota, September 8, 9 and 10. The convention is generally held in Minot, North Dakota, because of the devastation and flooding this spring/summer of 2011 it was relocated to Jamestown.

Jamestown is a delightful city located south central North Dakota. The prairies are filled with colorful wildflowers, not usual for this time of the year as it is so dry, not now. The fields and crops are growing with moisture and energy from the sun. It was a beautiful drive from Minneapolis.

Dave Anderson a delightful seasoned sales person from Koehler & Dramm was our driver, Bobby Bernstrom a new sales person was the navigator. Bobby has been in plants previously to fresh and order puller and supervisor of order pullers before that. Bobby has been with K&D for 6 1/2 years. I was the rider and owner of the GPS on my phone (Irene to the boys).

See K&D article and photos about the convention

Institute of Floristry at The State Fair

2011-08-19T07:15:00.000-07:00

September 3, from 9:00 am to 9:00pm The Institute of Floristry will be in the center Rotunda at The State Fair in the Horticulture building. Come see the demonstrations, the special class offerings. Sign up for a free class offehttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifring.It is a great day at The Great Minnesota Get Together. I believe there is a state law that everyone must attend , so I'll see you there!! The secret word is Cheese Curds.

Read more

Sympathy information from SAF Sales Wake-up

2011-07-25T09:23:00.000-07:00

Sympathy Business Resources

Tired of seeing “In Lieu of Flowers” in the obits? SAF materials can help you connect with local funeral directors, explain the importance of flowers to the bereavement process and promote your sympathy business. Check out these free tools and more at www.safnow.org/sympathy.

Sympathy Business Checklist
Advice, talking points and suggested wording for letters to funeral directors
Thank-you brochure for funeral directors
List of alternatives to the “in lieu of” phrase
Promotional ideas
Radio commercial scripts
You also can purchase SAF’s “Nature’s Sympathy Card” poster, statement stuffer and other promotional materials online.

Marna Hansen

2011-07-24T12:58:00.000-07:00

Marna Hansen, the business associate instructor at The Institute of Floristry has a new knee as of Monday July 18. She was in the hospital for several days, and is now in the care center recovering and receiving PT and OT for a few days. She will be going home this coming week to recoup for a few weeks. She will enjoy your cards and notes. Please send them to : Ardith Beveridge % Koehler & Dramm Wholesale Florist---2407 East Hennepin Ave, Mpls, MN 55413. I will take them to her personally. She will appreciate knowing we all care and pray for her fast recovery.

Wedding Class

2011-07-24T12:38:00.000-07:00

Start August out with the Wedding Class.
August 1-5, 2011 7:00AM-3:30 PM
We will make several styles of bridal bouquets with fresh flowers, some bridesmaids, flower girls and ring bearer designs. Then we will make corsages the wire and tape method, perfect the cold glue method, and combine both methods. We will make many styles of boutioneers, and headpieces.
In this class we create the "personal" flowers for the wedding. It was previously called "body" flowers, now more politically correct personal flowers.
Come join the class, learn how to update your style, create with a variety of fresh products and supplies.
You are able to take home what you make.
I take classes all over the world to bring current trends and techniques to the Institute of Floristry students.
Call 612-362-3133 or go to kdiof.com or koehlerdramm.com,Institute of Floristry

AAF--- American Acedamy of Floraculture

2011-07-24T12:28:00.000-07:00

Many of you have asked me how to gain certifiactions in the floral Industry. AAF is from SAF, Society of American Florists. One must be a menber in good standing with SAF to apply to be AAF. The other major factor is that you have to be in the floral industry for 10 years or more. That is in any area of the industry, in growing, selling, designing.
Your first step is contacting SAF through the web site www.safnow.org. Ask how to join SAF, then join. They will send you the necessary papers and talk with you to answer your questions. Once you are a member ( in the same conversation) ask them to show you how to find the application form on the site. Copy it, fill it out and return before the due date which is the end of January each year.When accepted you will be inducted in the Autumn of that year at the SAF convention.

It is time to do this for yourself and your professional carrer.

Floristry 1

2011-07-12T03:51:00.000-07:00

This is a wonderful Floristry 1 class. Everyone is so kind and helpful and sharing and and and, wonderful. The morning is full of information, the afternoon designing with beautiful wonderful roses of every color. The classroom lights up with the sights and fragrances of the flowers and the smiles of the students. It is no wonder that it is the best job in the world sharing what I love with people that love the same things with a passion...and that is flowers.
We learn about each other. Each are here to express themselves, to create. The energy in the room is amazing.Oh yes and we made bows, we did not try to make bows, we made beautiful bows, often to the surprise of the maker. One student , we will not name names, said she could not make bows, " they have a bow board at the shop." WELL, she can make bows, beautiful ones at that, but I am sworn to secrecy so she will not have to do them at the shop. I predict by the end of the class, she will be making bows volentarrily, because they are fun to do. We'll see, I'll keep you in the loop( pun there!)
Today we will tour the facility, look at books, learn mechanics and designing in foam, free standing designs. It is a full day, I can hardly wait to start.

Business Cards Reflect Your Brand, For Better or Worse

2011-07-11T10:07:00.000-07:00

Your business card “says/screams/whispers volumes” about your worth, says small business champion Cinda Baxter in her blog, “Always Upward.” A chic, polished card conveys success, while a “chintzy” card gives an impression that is “wobbly, or worse,” she says.

Not sure yours makes a good statement? Follow these business card dos and dont’s from graphic designer Nancy Owyang, founder of Eye 2 Eye Graphics:

DO:

• Pick “memorable” attributes. Abandon the black 12-pt. Times New Roman or Comic Sans and play with design, color, shape, size and texture for a card that doesn’t resemble anyone else’s.

• Tell a story. Don’t just slap on your title; communicate “what you do, how well you do it and why you do it better than anyone else,” Owyang says. Instead of “floral designer,” try an endorsement such as, “providing Charleston top-rated floral arrangements and service.

• Print on paper that people can write on. Many people like to make notes, which doesn’t work on high-gloss paper, unless you hand out permanent markers, as well, Owyang says”

DON’T:

• Use Gmail, Hotmail or AOL for your business email. Using a personal email address “is a mark against your professionalism and credibility,” Owyang says. An email address with your business URL is more serious and it reinforces your business name with customers.

• Have advertisements for other businesses on back. In exchange for free printing, some printers put their information on the back of the card. This distracts from your brand and hints that you didn’t invest much.

• Include outdated information. Crossed out or inaccurate information diminishes your image. If you move or change your number, get new cards printed as soon as possible.

source: www.safnow.org

Audrey from Cut Off, LA

2011-07-09T08:32:00.000-07:00

Audrey C. from Cut Off, LA is in Minneapolis with her family. We have been friends for so long, but I am usually there visiting and doing a program for the state association. She is here visiting me and The Mall of America. It is a gift to see and share time with her and her family. The friends you make in the floral industry will be with you the rest of your life. Treasure each other.

Ardith's Social contact addresses

2011-07-07T09:14:00.000-07:00

Udesign With Ardith Blog:
http://ardithbeveridge@blogspot.com/

Please "like" Institute of Floristry Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#1/pages/Koehler-Dramms-Institute-of-Floristry/141863362551082

Koehler & Dramm's Twitter account: Follow us here too:
http://twitter.com/#!/KoehlerFlorist

Ardith's Facebook account:
www.facebook.com/people/ardithbeveridge/1558530092

7-7-11 hands On Wednesday Class

2011-07-07T08:21:00.002-07:00

Thank you to each of you that attended the Hands On Wednesday class last night. It was good to see you and create with you.
The subject last night was Volumetric Design Style. The Volumetric Design Style is a three-dimensional, closed form composition consisting of a clearly defined geometric shape that is wholly or partially filled or outlined with plant material and or decorative accents. None of the materials used should violate the integrity of the geometric form. ( AIFD A Guide To Floral Design) Sold at Koehler & Dramm.
The format of the HOW classes are , the style is introduced and discussed. I begin the mechanics, the students follow. Then I do a sample up to a point so you have the overall style in your mind, then you and your creativity take over to interpret the style with the fresh product available.Everyone learns from each other , I learn from you and you from me. It is great fun.
August 3, 2011 from 6:00 to 8:00PM is the next HOW. Line/mass design is the subject. Call Cheryl at 612-362-3102 or e mail her at cstanius-deiman@koehlerdramm.com, ask her about the special multiple HOW class price .
Your education is yours, no one can ever take it from you. Keep current in our industry.
AA

2011-07-07T08:21:00.001-07:00

Join Society of American Florists (SAF) today

2011-07-06T06:15:00.000-07:00

Go to safnow.org to see the benefits you receive by becoming a member of The Society of American Florist . Floral Management mazagine is filled with educational and informational articles from the field to the customer. The publication is sent by mail or e mail, your choice. Contact SAF, see how to join as your business or individual if you are working at a shop or a contract designer. Be a part of the professional association that is there for you.

You may be eligable to join American Academy of Floraculture (AAF) and Professional Floral Communicators International (PFCI). Why not look into it today. Any questions I will be happy to help or contact SAF directly, they are kind, helpful and have the answers.

Quote from Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll

2011-06-24T08:17:00.000-07:00

" There is no use in trying," said Alice; "one can't believe impossible things." " I dare say you haven't had much practice," said the Queen. " When I was your age,I always did it for half an hour a day. Why,Sometimes I've believed as many as six impoissible things before breakfast."

Think about it , believe.
AA

2012 Hands on Wednesday classes

2011-06-23T13:39:00.000-07:00

We are planning the 2012 class schgedule right now. So many of you have told me ideas you have for Hands On Wednesday classes. These are 2 hour classes usually the first Wednesday of each month.These are available to anyone that has taken the basic class. So bring on the ideas, what do you want to learn,remember or create?

Judging/Evaluation Workshop

2011-06-23T12:53:00.000-07:00

The Judging/Evaluation Workshops throughout the five state area has been well received and useful. Several states are now giving the workshop to their board members and active membership.New Iowa Board of Directors for the state association are required to take the workshop and pass the test to be a Level I Judge. Wisconsin, Minnesota,North and South Dakota are right in there with them.
Koehler & Dramm's Institute of Floristry has the Master List of all Registered Judges . When planning a design competition in your area use these professionally trained Judges. Call or e mail Cheryl at 612-362-3133 ,cstanius-deiman for the formal list.
This workshop is not only for judges judging design competitions, it is for us as designers , owners and managers to make sure everything we make for our customers is the best. To attend a Judging/Evaluation Workshop call Cheryl, give her your name and e mail address. When the next date is set we will contact you.

2011-06-21T07:29:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful warm sunny day, children were dressed in their Easter finest, music, fun activities, celebrities and flowers. I left Minneapolis on Thursday, designed Friday, Saturday and Sunday on the South Lawn, the presidents back yard. The President and the First Family were visiting the guests on Sunday afternoon and stopped by to shake our hand to thank us. Each year it is an honor to be involved in this exciting historic event.

Institute of Floristry new website

2011-06-20T12:27:00.001-07:00

Check out Institute of Floristry new website! Photos, tips, news and so much more!
www.kdiof.com

October 29th, 2009 and October 30th, 2009

2009-10-29T18:09:00.000-07:00

Friday October 30th, 2009
Today is the day we come back to US, sweet and sad.
I was up early, finished the tapestry for Belinda and Steve. Then I went to the studio for my sculpting class. I mixed the products, pored the mold, . While it was drying I watched Belinda begin her creative process of carving a sculpture for a fund raising event. The cylinder of cement, sand and water became a young lady with long beautiful hair. Crisi is her inspiration. The sculpture will go on a stained pole for a garden. Her skirt will be the flowers around her, amazing. When my mold was ready I carved in it something for Dawn's garden in Queenstown. It has a couple of places for candles in cathederal windows with flowers on each side. Very elimentary, but so enjoyable.Crisi and I are packed, ready to go to the airport. Thank you for sharing this advanture with us.
Ardith

Thursday October 29th, 2009
Our last full day in New Zealand but one of a few days where we slept in, well like 8am. We all got ready and Dawn, Belinda, Mom, and I set off for my meeting with mental health professionals in Auckland. We arrived early and of course had another coffee. I then met Meg, and friend of my friend's Rosie and Kim from Carborro, NC, at the Mental health Hospital where she introduced me to her friend Lindsey who works in Crisis Services for one half of the Auckland area. We compared the differences between services in NZ and NC. Excellent information and leads for more information related to my business. Meg then gave me a ride to downtown Auckland to meet up with the ladies who visited another flower shop in Auckland. We went to the top of a volcano where we could see the Pacific Ocean and the Tazman Sea. The only place in the world where you can see two different huge bodies of water. We went to the grocery store and then I made American Tacos for everyone. Soon after we all "hit the hay" so we could be ready for our travels tomorrow. We have really had a great time with great people! Thank you to everyone who gave to us while we were here in New Zealand and they are all welcome to visit both of us in the states. Much Love!
Cristin

October 28th, 2009

2009-10-29T00:47:00.000-07:00

Wednesday October 28th, 2009
We got up early this morning to set off to Rotorua which is a town where the Maori people educate visitors about their culture. After the 2 1/2 drive to Rotorua, which Dawn graciously drove, we went to Living Colour which is a flower shop on Rotorua. Nina owns the shop and she is an AIFD, American Institute of Floral Designers, designer who won the 2009 New Zealand Designer of the Year which is the New Zealand cup. The New Zealand cup recipient is one of twenty that qualifies to design for the World Cup. Nina was gracious and offered her insight into her floral business in New Zealand and tips for starting a floral shop in New Zealand. Mom and I then went out to shop for souvenirs for our family back home. The town of Rotorua is in a volcano which results in a distinctive scent of sulfur. Not our favorite part of the trip. We caught up with Dawn and Darrell after Dawn met up with a friend that she has not seen in many years. They took us to Te Puia which is a native village of the Maori people. We went for a tour which included seeing Kiwi birds, education on the Maori people, seeing a live geyser, and participating in an authentic Maori dance presentation. Darrell even played the role of the Chief and we were part of his family. After the presentation we set off for Belinda and Steve's where they decided that we would get "take away" for dinner and we went to bed early.
Cristin

October 27th, 2009

2009-10-29T00:29:00.000-07:00

Tuesday October 27th, 2009
Good morning-We started off the day with going to a "shopping "area of Auckland that Dawn took us to. We did some window shopping and then went to St. Helieis Bay area for lunch. After lunch we went to a local bakery for some wonderful breads and a couple of bakery treats. At 1pm we visited New Zealand Bloom which is a grower of some flowers that are sent to Koehler and Dramm, if you don't know that is the floral wholesale house in Minneapolis where Mom works. The flowers were beautiful and we saw orchids and peonies. Next David and Mike from New Zealand Bloom took us to an orchid greenhouse named Joshua that supplies the orchids for New Zealand Bloom. Joshua is owned by two brothers originally from Holland. It was spectacular. Of course as we mentioned before the orchid season is coming to an end but it was full of hundreds and hundreds of orchid plants and about 1/4 of the greenhouse had orchids that were ready to be cut, packed, and shipped. After all of that beauty we were beat so we went back to Belinda and Steve's to have a wonderful dinner made by Steve and then off to bed.
Cristin

October 24th, 2009 through October 26th, 2009

2009-10-28T12:39:00.000-07:00

Monday October 26th, 2009
We were up very early for our car trip from Martinbourough to Wellington, visited a couple of shops, and then hopped on a plane to Auckland. When we arrived to Auckland we rented a car and drove to Dawn and Darrell's friends Belinda and Steve. They live on this property out in the country in Ramarama. Their place is amazing with birds, plants, and flowers. They have an orchird growning range named Balzana LTD. It has been wonderful to walk through the orchids and hours of discussions about growing, cutting, shipping, and processing. Steve is an amazing man and the process is successful. The smell in the warm greenhouse is great. this ius the end of the orchird growing season, with only a couple of weeks left. Thank God I am able to see and be here now.

Sunday October 25th, 2009
Today is Sunday of Labor Day Weekend. Monday is considered Labor Day and is a national holiday. We were up early packed a lunch and to the beach, beautiful black sand beach. The whole family and the two dogs . We went to this great lighthouse, 250 steps up and down. Cape Palliesr on the Pacific Ocean. The seals were right up on the rocks, actually they look like rocks, only they move, yawn and stretch, oh yes, and smell!!!!The picnic was lovely, warm, the black sand was beautiful and warm.We went home late afternoon. Crisi taught Thalia cheer leading, and dance. I put a tree together with bamboo, from the yard, and grapevine around and around and around.Then I put it upside down, saw that at K&D, great idea. It looked so nice. So Gail, Dawns sister and I decorated the Spa for Christmas. We set the tree up in front of the small wood burning fireplace--funny--I was concerned at first about the wood so close to the fire.No need Christmas here is in the summer.
We had a bonfire and introduced Smores. They loved them.Great day.
Crisi had a meeting with Chris Wilson,EMT emergency fireman and CPR instructor in Wellington and Martinborough.Mental health crisis, emergency and CPR services were the center of topics.

Saturday October 24, 2009
Crisi was up early to walk the two German Shepards with Dawn and Gail. Then we had a traditional New Zealand breakfast with pancakes, toast, eggs, hash browns, and fruit, and , and , and everything . We jumped into Gail's caddy to go to Greystown where we had tea, more "pies", looked in the local stores, and had some fruit ice cream. Next to the Richmond Gardens in Carterton Wirarapa for a wonderful walk around the privately owned gardens. Then back to Gails house for a wonderful organic dinner. Crisi, Gail, and friends went to the Okotober Beer Festival with a great local band at the local pub. They dressed up as German Wenches, let it go at that.
Ardith

October 23rd, 2009

2009-10-23T20:20:00.000-07:00

Friday October 23rd, 2009
We woke up this morning and said goodbye to Cveta who is continuing on her biking and hiking retreat. We checked out of the apartment and met up with Dawn's parents at their home. After some lunch and Dawn re-packing we set off to the airport. Shompoo and her two sons gave Mom and I a ride and Dawn and her husband Darrel went with Dawn's parents. We checked in and then were met by Sandra and Paul to say their goodbyes. We boarded the plane, without security, to Wellington. The view was, again, spectacular. We arrived in Wellington at 2:30pm, picked up the rental car, and took off to the New Zealand National Te Papa Museum. They had the largest squid preserved and educational information about how the New Zealand Islands were formed and about the native people, Maori. We drove to Dawn's sister's place in Martinborough and during the drive we drove up one of the huge mountains and then back down. Gail's daughter Thalia (13 yo) told me that she timed the drive once and it was 7 minutes up and 7 minutes down either way. When we got there, Gail's other daughter Melia (7 yo) was so excited that she could not even stand still. We also met her son Sergio (16yo) who was home for the weekend from boarding school. Gail made us a wonderful feast of organic chicken, 3 different types of potatoes, and different vegetables. Just what we needed. Then off to bed at the Edendale house down the street.
Cristin

October 22nd, 2009

2009-10-23T19:33:00.001-07:00

Thursday October 22nd, 2009
Cheers! Good day Mate!
Ok done being a "cheesy" New Zealand tourist. So we got up this morning and went to the Gondola which takes you up to the top of one of the Remarkables mountains and you can see the whole town of Queenstown, the Lake, and all the awesome Remarkables. Got some great souvenirs there as well. We decided to take it easy today and hang out in and around Queenstown. Next was the greatest mother daughter bonding moment on the trip, well as Mom just said so far. We went to the Kawarau Bridge which is the Original site of the FIRST Bungee jump. AJ Hackett made the first bungee jump here and so did Mom and I. It was awesome! It was 143 meters high over looking the water. Mom and I tandem jumped together and it was beautiful. We were hooked up to the bungee together had to hold on to each others sides as we jumped. The workers said 4-3-2-1 and then we jumped. We went down and then bounced up and then down again. We yelled the whole time. Next they handed us a pole to grab and they lowered us down to the inflatable boat and took us to the shore. Our legs were like jello and then we had to climb hundreds of stairs to get back to the top. When we got to the top we were able to see a replay of the drop and we did another touristy thing and bought the pictures. We'll post them later. Both of us even got a free t-shirt for jumping. Next we went back to Arrowtown and got "pies" and if you don't know the pies are different from american pies. They are filled with venison, steak, bacon, eggs, vegetables, ect. We also did some more shopping and ran into one of Dawn's friend who runs a shop there and spent some time looking around. We then went into town to use the computer at Paul and Sandra's which was when we were able to post the last blog. Next the grocery store and we bought groceries for Cveta to make everyone a Bulgarian dish made with lots of vegetables, potatoes, and meat. It was good. Everyone seemed sleepy but of course I wasn't. I was trying to get everyone or even just one person to go to the -5 bar (negative 5). Everyone said no and then Mom said OK I'll go with you. Next thing you know it was Mom, Cveta, Sandra, Sandra's son Richard, Sandra's daughter Gemma, Gemma's boyfriend Angus, Richard's friend Kim, and myself. Sandra was able to hook us up with a "local" discount of $15 NZ dollars. They gave us gloves and really big warm coats to wear. Then they took us across the walkway to the bar where the temperature of the bar was -8 degrees, it was a little colder since not many people had been in that night. It was 15 by 15 and made out of ice. Included in the entrance price was one alcoholic drink or two non-alcoholic drinks. I ordered a "yellow snow" which consisted of vanilla vodka, Midori, Kiwi, and pineapple juice served in a glass made of ice. The place was full of ice sculptures and we were only allowed to stay for about a half an hour. We had a great time and it was a great day! Bungee jumping and an ice bar-how can you beat that? I'm sure with Dawn showing us around and we are about to meet her sister Gail there are more tales to come!
Cristin

October 19th, 2009 through October 21st, 2009 Queenstown, NZ

2009-10-21T18:47:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

Sorry it has been so long. We have not been able to get to a computer until now.

October 19th, 2009
We got into Auckland on Monday morning and then we flew directly into Frankton, a suburb of Queenstown. When we arrived at the airport where we were met by Dawn's, our itinerary specialist, family which consisted of her brother Paul and wife Sandra, her brother Alan and his wife, spoken like shampoo-We are sure it is not spelled that way, her sister Anne and husband Ken, and lastly her father Dick and her mother Noleen. It was so great to have a family greet us and we felt so at home. We went directly to Dawn's parent's house for lunch as we waited for Cveta, Mom's friend from Koehler and Hawaii, to fly in. We had a wonderful but simple lunch. Next we went to Paul and Sandra's to meet their children and then decided to meet their son and daughter at the coffee shop where her son works. (As you will see we stop to have coffee alot-Its not always coffee) Finally made it to our "short term" apartment. Now understand that all three of us had not showered at this point for three days and were very eager to take one. The apartment was great and had three rooms for all three of us. We were very happy about the heat in the rooms and the towel warmer in the bathroom. At about 8pm we all went to bed and slept through the night.

October 20th, 2009
Mom and I got up at 6am ready to go for a walk around the Lake Wakatipu in town. We asked Cveta if she wanted to go and she said "I'm too cold" and then we set off. We started in the direction of the lake where Dawn had told us how to get to the sidewalk around the lake. We felt lost and asked a man walking to direct us to the lake. He was was from Brazil and he directed us right to the lake. The lake is 84 miles around and we probably walked 1 mile out and then 1 mile back. The wind was blowing alot and it was cold coming off of the lake. We were ready by 9am and off to the Kiwi Wildlife Bird Park. Dawn's father bought some land in 1996 which in his words people said he was a "crazy man" because the land was a dump site full of random things and lots of growth. The family worked hard and cleared the land and made the Kiwi Wildlife Bird Park. No the locals think he is in his words "a sly fox". The birds were beautiful. We saw the feeding of the Kiwi, which we had to do in the dark since they are nocturnal birds, the Kea, it is described as a "cheeky" bird which is our new favorite word, and many other birds and some reptiles. Then Dawn, Mom, and Cveta went through the bird park, with approval, and started cutting down branches of greenery for the flower show in the afternoon. Mom and Cveta even went into a "prohibited" parking lot of a school next door and were about to be caught until Dawn and I drove up to get them outta there. So much passion for greenery that they took the risk of being arrested. Next we went to the Lake Hayes Pavillion out side of Frankton to do a show for The Women's Institute which is a woman's organization that promotes woman and their talents. Several other floral organizations and artists attended which filled the Pavilion. The local press attended and took pictures as well. It was a great success for Mom, Cveta, and Dawn. We had tea and biskets and took off to Arrowtown. Arrowtown is a town that originated from the Chinese for gold mining. It is the most charming town that we had ever seen. We visited a cinema that had huge seats, bean bags to sit in and had quilted tapestry filling the ceiling and walls. Cveta absolutely loved the walkway up to the cinema. It was beautiful. there was even a motel named the New Orleans, which reminded me of my Dad since he loves New Orleans. Next we left to drive back into town for dinner with the family and then back to our apartment. I was not tired so I went over to the Pub across the street and had a couple of brews.

October 21st, 2009,

We got up and were ready by 7:30am off to Milford Sound. Paul and Sandra drove us which is a 4 hour drive. The time passed so quickly and before we knew it we were in Te Anau, which was half way, and we had "coffee" and did a little shopping. Before we left town we stopped by the "supermarket" to get sandwiched and snacks for the boat ride. The next 2 hours were the most spectacular as we drove and spoke our "oohhss" and "aahhss". The best was going through the tunnel under a gigantic mountain then down the mountain on a winding road. It was pouring rain the whole boat ride which was great since we saw thousands of waterfalls. The front of the boat even went under once of them and we got soaked. Cveta was taking pictures left and right, we saw seals and penguins, and we all got a little sea sick as we approached the opening to the Tazman Sea. It was the most awesome scenery we have seen. As we headed back we stopped at the some big rock waterfalls in the pouring rain. It took another 4 hours which also went pretty fast as we all talked most of the way-imagine that. Mom and Cveta went back to the apartment and I went out to dinner with Paul and Sandra.
Cristin

October 17, 2009

2009-10-17T16:48:00.000-07:00

Saturday October 17th, 2009
Hello from LAX-We finally made it here from Minneapolis after speed walking to our next gate and changing planes. We had great seats on the plane-exit row just the two of us. It was funny to watch the people wl]alk up who were not sure where the bathroom was and they looked like they were sneaking up on it.

Once we got to LA we retrieved our bags and started off to the Bob Hope USO building. We crossed part of the street and then the second part of the street. Right after we crossed we hear a short siren and then the police officer on his bike "pulled us over". We walked across the street on a green light and did not press the crosswalk button to be able to change the light to cross. He told us that he would not give us a ticket but just a warning and then took our drivers license info.

Getting last minute things together, shower, and then off to the international terminal. We leave at 9pm-We'll post when we get there!
Cristin

Advantures Ardith-New Zealand

2009-10-16T04:33:00.000-07:00

October 16

My daughter is flying to Minneapolis from Durham, North Carolina this evening.Tomorrow morning she and I will fly to LAX. We arrive about 2:00 there to meet with Dawn and Darryll. Dawn is my good friend that is from New Zealand. Dawn and I meet a couple of years ago when she came to Minneapolis with her then military husband to take floral design classes.We formed a fast and strong friendship. Last Spring she and I were talking about her trip in October , home for the summer for her , away from the Midwest winters. They have the best, they follow the spring and summers around the world scuba diving.

We will be there for a couple of weeks. I will be doing a few design programs,visiting some growers that Koehler & Dramm buy from, visiting some design schools and doing a show or two on the way. Cristin a Mental Health Professional and trainer will also be networking and visiting facilities in her profession. Dawn has us all set up with business and recreation. She is the number one cruise directer, thank goodness. She knows her island and the people and places.

For those that know Cveta, who used to work here at Koehler & Dramm. She moved to Maui a couple of years ago. She will be meeting us in Auckland on Monday the 19. She is already there, been there for a month now on a meditative retreat. Long story, ask her about it.Finally another wish of mine to come true, my daughter Cristin and Cveta will meet for the first time, and they will be able to meet Dawn. That alone for me is wonderful.

This blog is set up to share with you the adventures, people, flowers and any design tips, ideas that I see. This for me is about design education. I'll be looking and interviewing designers/instructors to come over to share with you.You can have input in the process.

Stay tuned.There is a class today, Friday. I'm packed and ready, have been all week.Good thing for the class to occupy my time.

The Adventure has begun...

October 12

2009-10-12T04:40:00.000-07:00

Floristry II or advanced design class begins this week. It is always fun to take the next step in floral design, to extend yoyur talents and streatch personal abilities and theory.

The Basic evening class also begins. This will be a bit different as the hours will be changed around as I will be away for several days.

Saturday Morning October 17 my daughtyer Cristin and I will be leaving Minneapolis International airport for LAX. We will meet Dawn and Darryl from Wisconsin at the airport there . After a few hours we will four hop on the flight to Ackland, New Zealand for another Floral Advanutre, down under. Dawn is a native New Zealander. She has made all plans, a perfect tour guide. We have meetings set up with growers that sell to K&D, florist groups, universities and private groups. She also has business appointments set up for Cristin.

It is a good thing this week is busy, I'll sleep great on the flights.
AA

October 5, 2009 New Basic Class

2009-10-05T03:52:00.000-07:00

I am putting my toe in the water of technology this morning. Thanks to DeeDee Hoffman, a co manager who helped me with the details. The first entry on the Institute of Floristry blog. It feels good to be involved and learning.

This is always an exciting day, Day 1 of a Basic design class week. Everyone is eager and excited to take this creative step, it is exciting for me as well. The Institute of Floristry is in the 20th year , the excitement is still fresh with each class.
AA