David Jeffrey Designs

The History of Valentine's Day

2012-01-30T06:53:00.000-08:00

I love discovering the origins of holidays that relate to our business and was fascinated by the history of Valentine's Day. So below are some of the links I found . If any of my customers or readers have additional information or ideas to add about the upcoming holiday please send to my email address or add your comments below.

The History of Valentine's Day

Every February, across the country, candy, flowers, and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. But who is this mysterious saint and why do we celebrate this holiday? The history of Valentine's Day — and its patron saint — is shrouded in mystery. But we do know that February has long been a month of romance. St. Valentine's Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. So, who was Saint Valentine and how did he become associated with this ancient rite? Today, the Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred.
One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men — his crop of potential soldiers. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine's actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death.

Tropical flower arrangements for the man orTropical flower arrangements for the man or woman in your life that appreciates design woman in According to one legend, Valentine actually sent the first 'valentine' greeting himself. While in prison, it is believed that Valentine fell in love with a young girl — who may have been his jailer's daughter — who visited him during his confinement. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter, which he signed 'From your Valentine,' an expression that is still in use today. Although the truth behind the Valentine legends is murky, the stories certainly emphasize his appeal as a sympathetic, heroic, and, most importantly, romantic figure. It's no surprise that by the Middle Ages, Valentine was one of the most popular saints in England and France.

While some believe that Valentine's Day is celebrated in the middle of February to commemorate the anniversary of Valentine's death or burial — which probably occurred around 270 A.D — others claim that the Christian church may have decided to celebrate Valentine's feast day in the middle of February in an effort to 'christianize' celebrations of the pagan Lupercalia festival. In ancient Rome, February was the official beginning of spring and was considered a time for purification. Houses were ritually cleansed by sweeping them out and then sprinkling salt and a type of wheat called spelt throughout their interiors. Lupercalia, which began at the ides of February, February 15, was a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, as well as to the Roman founders Romulus and Remus. To begin the festival, members of the Luperci, an order of Roman priests, would gather at the sacred cave where the infants Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome, were believed to have been cared for by a she-wolf or lupa. The priests would then sacrifice a goat, for fertility, and a dog, for purification.

The boys then sliced the goat's hide into strips, dipped them in the sacrificial blood and took to the streets, gently slapping both women and fields of crops with the goat-hide strips. Far from being fearful, Roman women welcomed being touched with the hides because it was believed the strips would make them more fertile in the coming year. Later in the day, according to legend, all the young women in the city would place their names in a big urn. The city's bachelors would then each choose a name out of the urn and become paired for the year with his chosen woman. These matches often ended in marriage. Pope Gelasius declared February 14 St. Valentine's Day around 498 A.D. The Roman 'lottery' system for romantic pairing was deemed un-Christian and outlawed. Later, during the Middle Ages, it was commonly believed in France and England that February 14 was the beginning of birds' mating season, which added to the idea that the middle of February — Valentine's Day — should be a day for romance. The oldest known valentine still in existence today was a poem written by Charles, Duke of Orleans to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at the Battle of Agincourt. The greeting, which was written in 1415, is part of the manuscript collection of the British Library in London, England. Several years later, it is believed that King Henry V hired a writer named John Lydgate to compose a valentine note to Catherine of Valois.
In Great Britain, Valentine's Day began to be popularly celebrated around the seventeenth century. By the middle of the eighteenth century, it was common for friends and lovers in all social classes to exchange small tokens of affection or handwritten notes. By the end of the century, printed cards began to replace written letters due to improvements in printing technology. Ready-made cards were an easy way for people to express their emotions in a time when direct expression of one's feelings was discouraged. Cheaper postage rates also contributed to an increase in the popularity of sending Valentine's Day greetings. Americans probably began exchanging hand-made valentines in the early 1700s. In the 1840s, Esther A. Howland began to sell the first mass-produced valentines in America.
According to the Greeting Card Association, an estimated one billion valentine cards are sent each year, making Valentine's Day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year. (An estimated 2.6 billion cards are sent for Christmas.)

Approximately 85 percent of all valentines are purchased by women. In addition to the United States, Valentine's Day is celebrated in Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, France, and Australia.
Valentine greetings were popular as far back as the Middle Ages (written Valentine's didn't begin to appear until after 1400), and the oldest known Valentine card is on display at the British Museum. The first commercial Valentine's Day greeting cards produced in the U.S. were created in the 1840s by Esther A. Howland.
Howland, known as the Mother of the Valentine, made elaborate creations with real lace, ribbons and colorful pictures known as "scrap".
http://www.history.com/content/valentine

http://www.history.com/video.do?name=valentinesday&bcpid=6555686001&bclid=1672160848&bctid=1407959235

Upright Cabaret's American Icon Series presents THE TROUBADOURS

2012-01-28T16:41:00.000-08:00

It's rare for me to go off subject and blog about a non flower event but after seeing this wonderful show last night at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza I had to mention how terrific it was and recommend the next one to my customers.
Chris Isaacson presents Upright Cabaret's AMERICAN ICON SERIES is first rate entertainment and the salute to the music of Bob Dylan, Carole King & James Taylor was outstanding. Starring four talented diverse singers, Jackie Tohn, Matt Wolpe, Yvette Cason and the remarkable Jake Simpson.
We loved how the producer of the show transformed The Scherr Forum Theater into a nightclub Cabaret with comfortable cocktail tables and an inside bar which made the experience even more enjoyable.
Below are the links and further information for their upcoming shows at The Civic Arts Plaza...Don't miss it!

http://www.uprightcabaret.com/
http://www.civicartsplaza.com/cap/tickets/events/event.asp?eventID=1777

Tropical Designs By David Jeffrey Florist

2012-01-17T09:47:00.000-08:00

Tropical flowers are all about design.......

Flowers For All Occasions

2012-01-09T13:36:00.000-08:00

We look forward to a New Year creating custom floral designs for all your special occasions.

Thank you to all our customers for all your support throughtout the years.

Making Dreams Come True For 30 Years.

2012-01-07T10:14:00.000-08:00

Throughout our career we have received many special notes from our brides and their families but this one in particular touch our hearts.

Dearest David,

This thank you note is so overdue. And thank you at this point, really doesn’t seem to be enough. I have a special memory I wanted to share with you.

Years ago, when I was about 7 years old, you came to our house, per my Mom’s request. She was hosting a lavish dinner party and she needed help with the décor. I can remember you walking around our downstairs explaining to my Mom exactly where she needed a “ David Jeffrey” touch.

From your description of what you wanted to do – I knew it was going to be exquisite.

I can remember being in awe of you and feeling so special.

I mean – come on – not everyday do you have an artist come to your home & describe the creations he is going to do for you!

David , when the flowers came, I was blown away! The arrangements were just gorgeous and my mom was thrilled. I hoped one day you could do the same for me.

My wish came true April 4^th 2009.

Not only did you read my mind with the style I wanted to achieve on my wedding day – but you exceeded all my expectations.

The arrangements you created blew me and my guests away. I Thank you and your staff from the bottom of my heart.

Thank you for making my dream a reality.

Please give Jeff my love and appreciation as well as I know he helped make my day possible. With deep gratitude and love,

Cassy Larkins Niehaus

The Ultimate Baby Shower: Lace, Ribbons and Pink Roses!

2012-01-02T08:00:00.000-08:00

Planning a baby shower that is different from the rest? Here are pictures of one we did for a little girl. The entire decor including flowers, linens, lace umbrellas with hanging pink topiaries of pink roses was designed by David Jeffrey.

Flowers By Design From David Jeffrey

2012-01-01T16:44:00.000-08:00

At David Jeffrey Florist we are design specialists and will create a unique floral display that will communicate what you want to express for any occasion.

Wishing Everyone A Happy Hanukkah!

2011-12-20T11:52:00.001-08:00

Home For The Holidays

2011-12-16T19:10:00.000-08:00

Original designs from David Jeffrey Florist for your home, office or a gift for someone special!

Holiday Centerpieces at David Jeffrey Designs

2011-11-26T20:30:00.000-08:00

Our holiday centerpieces are beautifully designed with ribbons, pine cones, long lasting flowers, branches and a variety of fragrant holiday greens.
Our value is unmatched compared to other florists if you compare our quality and designs. We never mass produce any of our arrangements and are committed to working within your budget.
$75 Bubble Bowls to traditional long and low centerpieces that range from $95 to $150.

Fresh Wreaths 30" Fully Decorated $95.

2011-11-26T18:02:00.000-08:00

The Colors, Textures and Warmth of Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T11:04:00.000-08:00

Tributes With Flowers

2011-11-02T14:58:00.000-07:00

Floral Designs Carefully Crafted To Represent The Spirit And Memory Of Your Loved Ones Who's Life You Are Celebrating.

Splendor of Fall Colors

2011-09-12T13:38:00.000-07:00

Our Favorite time of the year is here

Tropical Flowers Can be Used in Design For All Occasions

2011-07-18T16:13:00.000-07:00

Using tropical flowers are only limited by one's imagination. I'm always taken back when I hear customers and other florists express difficulty using them in anything other than high style designs for specific functions.(like Hawaiian theme parties)
We have always used tropicals in our floral designs for the holidays, weddings, bat/bar mitzvahs, memorial services, to put it simply tropicals can be utilized in design for any occasion. They make a statement like no other flower, long lasting, bright colors and from a creative point of view...a lot of fun. Recently we did a party for a company that wanted centerpieces with flowers that were colorful with an aquatic theme and no props. We had a limited budget inside a banquet room that was fairly typical and our goal was to deliver what our customer wanted. In addition I also added some other examples of tropical floral arrangements that we do on a regular basis.

David Jeffrey Floral Designs On Line 24/7

2011-07-05T16:26:00.000-07:00

We are now offering on line purchasing of floral arrangements 24/7. Please go to www.davidjeffreyfloral.com to access a variety of designs with our price list. Of course we always prefer to speak directly to our customers to fill your orders and you can reach us at 805-376-2500. Delivery only, NO PICK UP. Please order early to insure we can fill your special request. Thank You

Westlake Elegance

2011-05-08T20:56:00.000-07:00

This design reflects the elegance and sophistication

of our home town Westlake Village.

$125 - $150

You can order on line or call us direct at
805-376-2500

Thank you to all our customers and enjoy your day with Mom.

2011-05-07T15:57:00.000-07:00

We are sold out for Mother's Day!

A heartfelt thank you to all our customers for your continued support throughout the years. We greatly appreciate your trust and confidence.
If you need to reach us for any reason please leave a message on our phone or email us and we will get back to you ASAP. Please remind Mom to water every day and keep the water level high.

Send Flowers To Mom From A Real Local Florist.

2011-05-03T23:19:00.000-07:00

Why would you send flowers that are dropped shipped in a box for your Mom to arrange when you have a real local florist to design a beautiful Mother's Day arrangement from David Jeffrey.

Serving our community for 30 years with distinction and pride offering a variety of styles and prices from $50.00 and up.

Call us direct at 805-376-2500 and tell us what you want and we will do everything possible to create a special gift for Mom on her special day.

$85-$125

$50-$60

$50-60

$125

$175-200

$125 - $150

$50-$60

$65

$95

$150

A History of Mother's Day

2011-05-03T22:43:00.000-07:00

The history of Mother's Day is centuries old and the earliest Mother's Day celebrations can be traced back to the spring celebrations of ancient Greece in honor of Rhea, the Mother of the Gods. During the 1600's, the early Christians in England celebrated a day to honor Mary, the mother of Christ. By a religious order the holiday was later expanded in its scope to include all mothers, and named as the Mothering Sunday. Celebrated on the 4th Sunday of Lent (the 40 day period leading up to Easter), "Mothering Sunday" honored the mothers of England.

During this time many of the England's poor worked as servants for the wealthy. As most jobs were located far from their homes, the servants would live at the houses of their employers. On Mothering Sunday, the servants would have the day off and were encouraged to return home and spend the day with their mothers. A special cake, called the mothering cake, was often brought along to provide a festive touch.

As Christianity spread throughout Europe the celebration changed to honor the "Mother Church" - the spiritual power that gave them life and protected them from harm. Over time the church festival blended with the Mothering Sunday celebration . People began honoring their mothers as well as the church.

With the passage of time, the practice of this fantastic tradition ceased slowly. The English colonists settled in America discontinued the tradition of Mothering Sunday because of lack of time.

In the United States, Mother's Day was loosely inspired by the British day and was first suggested after the American Civil War by social activist Julia Ward Howe. Howe (who wrote the words to the Battle hymn of the Republic) was horrified by the carnage of the Civil War and the Franco-Prussian War and so, in 1870, she tried to issue a manifesto for peace at international peace conferences in London and Paris (it was much like the later Mother's Day Peace Proclamation). During the Franco-Prussian war in the 1870s, Julia began a one-woman peace crusade and made an impassioned "appeal to womanhood" to rise against war. She composed in Boston a powerful plea that same year (generally considered to be the original Mothers' Day proclamation*) translated it into several languages and distributed it widely. In 1872, she went to London to promote an international Woman's Peace Congress. She began promoting the idea of a "Mother's Day for Peace" to be celebrated on June 2, honoring peace, motherhood and womanhood. In the Boston Mass, she initiated a Mothers' Peace Day observance on the second Sunday in June, a practice that was to be established as an annual event and practiced for at least 10 years. The day was, however, mainly intended as a call to unite women against war. It was due to her efforts that in 1873, women in 18 cities in America held a Mother's Day for Pace gathering. Howe rigorously championed the cause of official celebration of Mothers Day and declaration of official holiday on the day. She held meetings every year at Boston on Mother's Peace Day and took care that the day was well-observed. The celebrations died out when she turned her efforts to working for peace and women's rights in other ways. Howe failed in her attempt to get the formal recognition of a Mother's Day for Peace. Her remarkable contribution in the establishment of Mother's Day, however, remains in the fact that she organized a Mother's Day dedicated to peace. It is a landmark in the history of Mother's Day in the sense that this was to be the precursor to the modern Mother's Day celebrations. To acknowledge Howe's achievements a stamp was issued in her honor in 1988.

It should be well to remember that Howe's idea was influenced by Ann Marie Reeves Jarvis, a young Appalachian homemaker who, starting in 1858, had attempted to improve sanitation through what she called "Mothers Friendship Day". In the 1900's, at a time when most women devoted their time solely on their family and homes, Jarvis was working to assist in the healing of the nation after the Civil War. She organized women throughout the Civil War to work for better sanitary conditions for both sides and in 1868 she began work to reconcile Union and Confederate neighbors. Ann was instrumental in saving thousands of lives by teaching women in her Mothers Friendship Clubs the basics of nursing and sanitation which she had learned from her famous physician brother James Reeves, M.D. In parts of the United States it was customary to plant tomatoes outdoors after Mother's Work Days (and not before).

It was Jarvis' daughter, Anna Jarvis, who finally succeeded in introducing Mother's Day in the sense as we celebrate it today. Anna graduated from the Female Seminary in Wheeling and taught in Grafton for a while. Later she moved to Philadelphia with her family. Anna had spent many years looking after her ailing mother. This is why she preferred to remain a spinster. When her mother died in Philadelphia on May 9, 1905, Anna missed her greatly. So did her sister Elsinore whom she looked after as well. Anna felt children often neglected to appreciate their mother enough while the mother was still alive. Now, she intended to start a Mother's Day, as an honoring of the mothers. In 1907, two years after her mother's death, Anna Jarvis disclosed her intention to her friends who supported her cause wholeheartedly. So supported by her friends, Anna decided to dedicate her life to her mother's cause and to establish Mother's Day to "honor mothers, living and dead." She started the campaign to establish a national Mother's Day. With her friends, she started a letter-writing campaign to urge ministers, businessmen and congressmen in declaring a national Mother's Day holiday. She hoped Mother's Day would increase respect for parents and strengthen family bonds.

As a result of her efforts the first mother's day was observed on May 10, 1908, by a church service honoring Late Mrs. Reese Jarvis, in the Andrews Methodist Church in Grafton, West Virginia, where she spent 20 years taking Sunday school classes. Grafton is the home to the International Mother's Day Shrine. Another service was also conducted on the same date in Philadelphia where Mrs. Jarvis died, leaving her two daughters Anna and Elsinore. So it was more of a homage service for Mrs. Reeves Jarvis than a general one conducted in honor of motherhood. Nevertheless, this set the stage for the later Mother's Day observances held in the honor of motherhood.

Following this, it gained a widespread popularity across the nation. The Mother's Day International Association came into being on December 12, 1912, to promote and encourage meaningful observances of the event. Anna's dream came true when on May 9, 1914, the Presidential proclamation declared the 2nd Sunday of May to be observed as Mother's Day to honor the mothers.

It was here in the first observance that the carnations were introduced by Miss Jarvis. Large jars of white carnations were set about the platform where the service was conducted. At the end of the exercise one of these white carnations was given to each person present as a souvenir of Mother's Day. All this was done because the late elder Jarvis was fond of carnations.

From there, the custom caught on -- spreading eventually to 45 states. The first Mother's Day proclamation was issued by the governor of West Virginia in 1910. Oklahoma celebrated it in that same year. It stirred the same way in as far west as the state of Washington. And by 1911 there was not a state in the Union that did not have its own observances for Mother's Day. Soon it crossed the national boundary, as people in Mexico, Canada, South America, China, Japan and Africa all joined the spree to celebrate a day for mother love.

The Mother's Day International Association came into being on December 12, 1912, to promote and encourage meaningful observances of the event. Starting from 1912, Mother's day began to be officially declared a holiday by some states. Anna's dream came true when in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson declared the first national Mother's Day, as a day for American citizens to show the flag in honor of those mothers whose sons had died in war.

The House of Representatives in May 1913 unanimously adopted a resolution requesting the President, his cabinet, the members of both Houses and all officials of the federal government to wear a white carnation on Mother's Day. On May 7,1914, a resolution providing that the second Sunday in May be designated Mother's Day was introduced by Representative James T. Heflin of Alabama and Senator Morris Sheppard of Texas. It passed both Houses and on May 9, 1914, President Woodrow Wilson made the first official announcement proclaiming Mother's Day as a national holiday that was to be held each year on the 2nd Sunday of May. He asked Americans to give a public expression of reverence to mothers through the celebration of Mother's Day:

"Now, Therefore, I, Woodrow Wilson, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the said Joint Resolution, do hereby direct the government officials to display the United States flag on all government buildings and do invite the people of the United States to display the flag at their homes or other suitable places on the second Sunday in May as a public expression of our love and reverence for the mothers of our country."

And issuing a Mother's day Proclamation has since then been a convention.

Nine years after the first official Mother's Day, commercialization of the U.S. holiday became so rampant that Anna Jarvis herself became a major opponent of what the holiday had become. While honored for her part in the growth of the holiday, Anna Jarvis' last life was miserable. As the observance of Mother's Day enjoyed increasing popularity, new dimensions came to be added to it. This made Anna Jarvis disillusioned with her own creation. Though the original spirit of honoring the mothers remained the same, what began as a religious service expanded quickly into a more secular observance leading to giving of flowers, cards, and gifts. And Anna Jarvis was unable to cope with this changing mode of expression.

In 1934 Postmaster General James A. Farley announced a stamp to commemorate Mother's Day. The stamp featured the famous painting "Arrangement in Grey and Black". The painting was a portrait of the mother of James Abbott McNeill Whistler, an English artist. It was brought in to the United States as part of an exhibit in the year 1934.

Mother's Day continues to this day to be one of the most commercially successful U.S. occasions. According to the National Restaurant Association, Mother's Day is now the most popular day of the year to dine out at a restaurant in the United States. The occasion is now celebrated not so much with flags as with gifts, cards, hugs, thank yous and other tokens of affection. While many countries of the world celebrate their own Mother's Day on different days and at different times throughout the year, there are some countries such as Denmark, Finland, Italy, Turkey, Australia, and Belgium which also celebrate Mother's Day on the second Sunday of May. In some countries, the appreciation lasts for two days.

Today, Mother's Day is a day honoring mothers, celebrated on various days in many places around the world. It is the day when you acknowledge your mothers contribution in your life and pay a tribute to her, often with flowers and gifts. It complements Father's Day, the celebration honoring fathers.

There is also a short wonderful video, I highly recommend.

http://www.history.com/videos/history-of-mothers-day

20% off any purchase for Administrative Professionals Day

2011-04-23T23:00:00.000-07:00

Administrative Professionals Day Is April 27, 2011 or anytime during the week

from April 25 - April 30

We are offering 20% off any purchase for Administrative Professionals Day if you order early. We have a wide variety of products available in every price range.

Bud vases starting at $10.00 ea, floral arrangements from $30 ea, and orchids plants from $45. Please check out our on-line storefront or call us direct to design flowers

tailored to your needs and budget.

We understand that all businesses large and small are looking for the best value and we want to give our customers a great way to say " I appreciate you " with quality designs that SAVE you money. If you compare flower to flower in quality, quantity and design no one else in our area comes close for the best price to the consumer.

http://www.davidjeffreyfloral.com/

Below is a small sample of our work and prices

before your 20% discount

Tropical Arrangements perfect for either gender.

From $75 to $100

Tulips, stargazer and viburnum or white hydrangea ( whichever is available) $65.00

Growy Large $75

Small Growy $35 -$45

Mixed Arrangements from $ 40 to $55 in 6x6 Glass cubes with a variety of quality spring flowers . ( No carnations, mums)

Elegant black bud vase with single stem rose $17.50

We also have smaller clear glass bud vases for $10.00

The 2011 Theme for Administrative Professionals Day® is: This year, celebrate all office professionals.

For Administrative Professionals Day 2011, we’re veering away from the traditional celebration of the day which is centered on administrative professionals. The recession has hit everyone in the office. Downsizing has forced all of us to pull together and work harder, not just the administrative professionals in the workplace. IAAP recognizes the hard work and sacrifice from everyone. This year, celebrate all office professionals.
...About Administrative Professionals Week
Since 1952, the International Association of Administrative Professionals has honored office workers by sponsoring Administrative Professionals Week. Today, it is one of the largest workplace observances outside of employee birthdays and major holidays.

In the year 2000, IAAP announced a name change for Professional Secretaries Week and Professional Secretaries Day. The names were changed to Administrative Professionals Week and Administrative Professionals Day to keep pace with changing job titles and expanding responsibilities of today’s administrative workforce.

Over the years, Administrative Professionals Week has become one of the largest workplace observances. The event is celebrated worldwide, bringing together millions of people for community events, educational seminars and individual corporate activities recognizing support staff.

Today, there are more than 4.1 million secretaries and administrative assistants working in the United States, according to U.S. Department of Labor statistics, and 8.9 million people working in various administrative support roles. More than 475,000 administrative professionals are employed in Canada. Millions more administrative professionals work in offices all over the world.

APW is always the last full week in April. In 2011, Administrative Professionals Week is April 24-30 with Administrative Professionals Day on Wednesday, April 27.
...
http://www.iaap-hq.org/events/apw

Flowers for Easter from David Jeffrey

2011-04-20T11:56:00.000-07:00

A celebration of spring colors to decorate your home for the EASTER holiday. Centerpieces starting from $50 and up.
Allow us to custom design a floral arrangement to accommodate your budget and style.

Flowers By David Jeffrey Designs

2011-04-19T17:41:00.000-07:00

Your local florist serving the Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village and surrounding ventura communities for 30 years with distinction and pride.

Easter Wreaths By David Jeffrey Designs

2011-04-19T12:16:00.000-07:00

Instead of a typical Easter basket send a beautiful custom made wreath that will be treasured and used year after year.

Special Events

2011-04-19T07:03:00.000-07:00

Coordinating and designing every detail of your special event. From exquisite floral designs to creating and transforming a room that you will never forget.

Flowers for Passover From David Jeffrey

2011-04-18T08:26:00.000-07:00

Setting the Seder table with flowers should blend to compliment the table with understated elegance. Wishing you a Happy Passover with your friends, family and loved ones.

Sending plants for passover we recommend the David Jeffrey Box, a stylized combination of flowers and plants. ( There is an important difference between calla lilies and Easter lilies, and most florists should ALWAYS be aware of this) Below is a sample of one that was ordered for today with a white Phalaenopsis Plant and a second smaller box that can be removed and placed on the table as a small centerpiece.

Thank You For Trusting Us To Create Memories For The Most Important Day Of Your Life

2011-04-06T13:22:00.000-07:00

Flowers For Memorial Services

2011-04-06T10:40:00.000-07:00

This quote from an interview we did in Westlake Magazine sums up how we feel concerning flowers for memorial services. " But not everything in floral design is weddings and parties. They talked about some of the funerals they have done. Jeff, speaking for both of them, said they feel strongly that in their business they are holding people’s most memorable days in their hands. A funeral it is the last thing you do for a person and they find it very moving and personal work." Below is a sample of some of our work.

Tropical Flowers Can be Used in Design For All Occasions.

2011-03-17T16:13:00.000-07:00

Using tropical flowers are only limited by one's imagination. I'm always taken back when I hear customers and other florists express difficulty using them in anything other than high style designs for specific functions.(like Hawaiian theme parties) We have always used tropicals in our floral designs for the holidays, weddings, bat/bar mitzvahs, memorial services, to put it simply tropicals can be utilized in design for any occasion. They make a statement like no other flower, long lasting, bright colors and from a creative point of view...a lot of fun. Recently we did a party for a company that wanted centerpieces with flowers that were colorful with an aquatic theme and no props. We had a limited budget inside a banquet room in Pasadena that was fairly typical and our goal was to deliver what our customer wanted. In addition I also added some other examples of tropical floral arrangements that we do on a regular basis. This arrangement was ordered for the reception table at North Ranch Country Club. This striking floral arrangement was sent for Valentine's Day instead of the typical roses. This arrangement was one of two for a Bat Mitzvah

that we did for the bema

These Floral arrangements were for the grant opening of a new restaurant called

" The Napa Grill"

2011-02-25T10:15:00.000-08:00

Our most popular Valentine's Day Designs being Delivered for 2011

2011-02-13T16:57:00.000-08:00

We have sold out for Valentine's Day. A heartfelt thank you to all our customers that continue to support us throughout the years and helped to make this one of our most successful Holidays.

Showcasing some of our more popular Valentine's Day Designs being delivered for this year. Ordering in advance helps us to plan and obtain particular flowers, colors and styles to create a memorable expression of your love for your sweetheart. Thank you for your orders and we wish everyone a Happy Valentine's day

Flowers done with loving care

2011-02-12T13:09:00.000-08:00

Tropical Sunrise

2011-01-11T13:32:00.000-08:00

Impressive tropical floral arrangement of pin cushion protea, pink ginger, heliconia, anthuriums, bells of Ireland and curly willow. $150

Songbird Baskets

2011-01-11T13:29:00.000-08:00

$100. Large Basket

$65. Small Basket

Why throw money into a box of flowers with no design when you can have a David Jeffrey arrangement with style that is affordable…

2011-01-11T13:18:00.000-08:00

Mixed flowers in a bubble bowl or sq glass container from $40 to $65.

Flowers for Bar and Bat Mitzvah.

2011-01-07T19:19:00.000-08:00

High Style and Exotic Floral Arrangements Have Always Been Our Trademark At David Jeffrey Designs.

2011-01-07T14:24:00.000-08:00

Tropical Elegance $85-100

After nearly 30 years in the business our personal philosophy has always been to continue to grow and stretch our creative talents.

Early in our careers we were extremely lucky and learned design from some of the best designers in our industry. Over the years our goal has been to be innovators in design, even after all these years in the industry we are still considered a leading innovator in floral concepts.

This window display showcasing our High Style Floral Arrangements. was taken at our first store called " Lorvin's Florist" in Westlake Village in 1982

Below is a small sample of our original design concepts we developed over the years with prices.

Tropicana $150

Growy Garden

$100-125

Tropical Garden $85-125

Hot Tropics $125

2011-01-07T08:03:00.000-08:00

Tropical flower arrangements for the man or woman in your life that appreciates design

Contemporary Holiday Designs

2010-12-19T16:59:00.000-08:00

Christmas arrangements in geometric cubes of varying sizes and heights.

Winter Wonderland

2010-12-15T11:38:00.000-08:00

Deck The Halls.

2010-12-08T22:44:00.000-08:00

A holiday party we did at the magnificent Westlake Village Inn.

Florist The Snow Man

2010-12-08T20:19:00.000-08:00

A Whimsical Snowman Made From Flowers That Was Custom Made For One Of Our Clients.....

A Collection Of Custom Holiday Designs From David Jeffrey.

2010-12-08T20:05:00.000-08:00

Home For The Holidays At David Jeffrey Designs

2010-12-01T20:31:00.000-08:00

Enjoy The Colors Of The Season With Beautiful Thanksgiving Flowers From David Jeffrey Designs.

2010-11-13T17:58:00.000-08:00

Decorate your home or send one of our beautiful arrangements to someone special.

Thanksgiving Day is a joyous celebration commemorating the feast held by the Pilgrim colonists and members of the Wampanoag people at Plymouth in 1621. On this day people express gratitude for blessings and give thanks to dear ones for their love & support. Feasting with family and friends is an integral & most delightful part of Thanksgiving Day celebrations.

We at David Jeffrey Designs have a large assortments of centerpieces and floral arrangements in all price ranges. We will be open from 8 am - 7 pm Tuesday Nov 24 and Wednesday Nov 25.

We will be closed for Thanksgiving Holiday on Thursday and Friday.

David Jeffrey's Home Holiday Decor

2010-11-12T10:46:00.000-08:00

Celebrate the holiday spirit with beautiful custom-designed florals for your home and parties. We also offer unique wreaths, premium plants, lush garlands, gift baskets and in - house home decorating.

The Holidays Are Coming

2010-11-11T08:12:00.001-08:00

Halloween & Fall Arrangments

2010-10-19T10:03:00.000-07:00

We offer a diverse selection of quality floral arrangements for the Fall / Halloween season.

From whimsical Halloween centerpieces to elaborate sophisticated fall arrangements.

Frighteningly Fabulous Custom Halloween Wreaths

2010-10-18T22:06:00.000-07:00

Unique custom one of a kind wreaths for Halloween.

Welcome In The Autumn With Custom Fall Wreaths From David Jeffrey Designs

2010-09-05T11:16:00.000-07:00

Our favorite season of the year is upon us and David Jeffrey Designs is offering a wide variety of early fall specials.
We are now taking orders for our Custom Fall Leaf Wreaths.
The workmanship and detail to our wreaths are unequaled and will welcome Guests to your home with all the romance of the fall Season.

Fall Weddings.

2010-09-04T11:15:00.000-07:00

Weddings in the fall have now surpassed June in popularity and it's easy to see why with the wide range of beautiful rich warm tones of the season. Below is a sample of previous weddings we have done. For a personal consultation please call 805-376-2500.
References upon request.

Back by popular demand: McCall's Candles at David Jeffrey Designs.

2010-09-01T16:53:00.000-07:00

Reminiscent of freshly strewn leaves on cobblestone sidewalks. A crisp assortment of Hazelnut, Cinnamon Bark, Cinnamon Leaves, Spun Sugar Strands, Vermont Maple and White Ginger.

We are are thrilled once again to offer our customers the finest scented candle on the market. When we first introduced this wonderful product in our Thousand Oaks retail store "Flowers On The Blvd" back in 2003 it was a huge success.

All I had to do was keep one of the candles lit at all times and the amazing fragrances sold itself. Sending a basket of flowers with a McCall Candle is a gift you will never forget. Order early for the Holidays.

A haunting blend of delectable black licorice laces with traces of sprinkled anise and a warming touch of sweet vanilla. *Seasonally available*

Classic Jar Candle - 16 oz size is $18.50

Jeff and Amanda's Wedding at the Magnificent Westlake Village Inn.

2010-07-16T12:51:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful video, it really captures this lovely couple and their special day.
We are proud to say as the florist and event consultants for this wedding we were part of the team to make this such a successful event at the magnificent Westlake Village Inn.
Thank you Jeannie, Dana and all your staff at the Westlake Village Inn for all your help and support at this event.

Tina and Mike O'Flaherty our deepest gratitude for your trust in us to do your daughters wedding and all the years as loyal customers and friends.

Skyline Videography
http://www.skylinevideography.com

Westlake Village Inn
http://www.westlakevillageinn.com/weddings.html

GODETIA Flower

2010-06-21T14:27:00.000-07:00

In all the years that we have done flowers for hotels and restaurants I have never had such a reaction to a flower in a bud vase as I do with Godetia. So I thought I would post some information and pictures for all the customers that have been asking about it. Yes it is still available and it is beautiful in any style floral arrangements.

Godetia

(Named for C. H. Godet, Swiss botanist)

"Godezia"Special "Azaela European Blend" - A blend of many colors and bicolors. Plant habit is base branching and overall habit and flowering time between many different colors is VERY uniform. Flowers heavily. Annual. This West Coast native is also known as Farewell-to-Spring, bidding the season goodbye with its dramatic display of blooms from spring to early summer. Slender, upright plants bear double, cup-like flowers in shades of pink and lavender. Good for fresh-cut bouquets. Days to Sprout 7 - 14, Plant seeds outdoors in early spring as soon as soil can be worked. Godetia needs well-drained - even sandy - soil without fertilizer. (Seeds may be started indoors in peat pots 6 to 8 weeks earlier.) Where winters are mild, seeds may be planted outdoors in fall. Sow seeds, cover lightly with soil and keep moist until seedlings are established. Water when the top 3-inch layer of soil is dry. Do not fertilize. Remove faded blossoms to prolong flowering. For cut flowers, cut when top bud opens.

.

One Word Describes The Casa Pacifica Angels Wine & Food Festival, Fabulous!

2010-06-07T17:19:00.000-07:00

We attended the 17th annual Casa Pacifica Angels Wine & Food Festival as guests and had a great time!
Unbelievable food & desserts, wine booths at every turn and great entertainment all situated on the beautiful campus grounds of California State University Channel Islands in Camarillo.
If you have never been to this worthwhile charitable event I urge you to mark it on your calendar for next year and go.....
We were there for three hours and only were able to visit a third of the vendors, so I suggest you get there early and prepare to spend the day because there is so much to see and sample. Trust me you will be shocked how many outstanding vendors you will discover. Congratulations to everyone involved putting together this event ...you did an amazing job!

Below are some of the places we visited and really enjoyed but I highly recommend you get a list of ALL the vendors and give them a try.
www.cpwineandfoodfestival.com

Southern Chic Catering
805-469-3328
Really enjoyed meeting the owner and chef Nicole Coronado.
For years I've been looking for Southern food and finally my search is over. Loved it!

La Starr & Co
805-642-2814
www.lastarrcakes.com

Jonathan's
www.jonathanatpeiranos.com
204 E. Main St , Ventura
805-648-4853

Brophy Bros
www.brophybros.com
1559 Spinnaker Dr, Ventura
805-639-0865

Cafe Firenze
805-532-0048
563 W. Los Angeles Ave, Moorpark.
www.cafefirenze.net

The Watermark on Main
805-643-6800
598 East Main St, Ventura
www.watermarkonmain.com

Graceful: A contemporary elegant arrangement of Calla lilies.

2010-06-03T20:15:00.000-07:00

$100.

Celebration

2010-05-24T16:58:00.000-07:00

Celebration
Floral,Orchid Plant, wine /champagne combination designed in our contemporary 3 box set. Price of wine/Champagne is additional depending on your choice.
From $160 to 175.

2 box set with Orchid and flowers only

Customer Appreciation Honors - Stella's Restaurant

2010-05-24T16:41:00.000-07:00

Thank you Stella's for the referrals and support over the years. We truly appreciate your wonderful breakfast and all of the nice customers that we have met through your restaurant over the last 22 years.

Stella's Gourmet Restaurant
2385 Michael Dr
Newbury Park, CA 91320
(805) 498-0989

The History Of Mother's Day

2010-05-04T16:05:00.000-07:00

The history of Mother's Day is centuries old and goes back to the times of ancient Greeks, who held festivities to honor Rhea, the mother of the gods. The early Christians celebrated the Mother's festival on the fourth Sunday of Lent to honor Mary, the mother of Christ. Interestingly, later on a religious order stretched the holiday to include all mothers, and named it as the Mothering Sunday. The English colonists settled in America discontinued the tradition of Mothering Sunday because of lack of time. In 1872 Julia Ward Howe organized a day for mothers dedicated to peace. It is a landmark in the history of Mother's Day.

Please visit our on line storefront to view a variety of floral arrangements or we can custom design any style you would like.

David Jeffrey's Interior Plant Designs and Service Is Now Open.

2010-05-01T12:28:00.000-07:00

David Jeffrey Designs is now offering interior plantscaping and maintenance for homes or business. Our weekly plant service will include maintenance, quality indoor plants, premium orchids, plant products and designer containers for all decors.
If you would like to set up an appointment for a free consultation please call us at 805-376-2500

Customer Appreciation Honors -Center for Early Jewish Education

2010-04-28T17:01:00.000-07:00

It has been a wonderful association and we have enjoyed meeting all the wonderful families and staff over the years. Special thanks to Cantor Rochelle Krause, Director of CEJE for all your kind words and support.

We wish you and Steve much happiness.

Out of a very real need to provide a solid Jewish education for children, the Center for Early Jewish Education was born. CEJE's staff of experienced and caring teachers are, at all times, dedicated to passing on Jewish tradition and custom in aCREATIVE and LOVING environment. Our emphasis is to impart a love for Judaism through a child's real understanding of his ties to the past, and his place in the future.

http://earlyjewishedu-ivil.tripod.com/index.html

Administrative Professionals Week/Day - Orchid Plant Sale

2010-04-20T19:08:00.000-07:00

Orchid Plants Special

$50. for a single stem and up depending on size and container.

National Secretaries Week was created in 1952 through the efforts of Harry F. Klemfuss, a New York publicist.^[1] Working in conjunction with the National Secretaries Association, later known as the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP), Klemfuss wanted to encourage more people to consider careers in the secretarial/administrative support field.^[1]

The official period of celebration was first proclaimed by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Charles Sawyer as "National Secretaries Week," which was held June 1–7 in 1952, with Wednesday, June 4, 1952 designated National Secretaries Day. The first Secretaries' Day was sponsored by the National Secretaries Association with the support corporate groups.

In 1955, the observance date of National Secretaries Week was moved to the last full week of April. The name was changed to Professional Secretaries Week in 1981, and became Administrative Professionals Week in 2000 to encompass the expanding responsibilities and wide-ranging job titles of administrative support staff.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Administrative_Professionals'_Day

This Weeks Special: A Vase Filled With Fragrant Lilac $45.

2010-03-22T08:18:00.000-07:00

There is no flower as beautiful and aromatic as Lilacs.

The elegant simplicity of lilac in a vase is like a fine painting.

Customer Appreciation Honors Boccaccio's Restaurant

2010-03-20T19:28:00.000-07:00

Thank you Joe, Hamid and your entire staff for all your kindness and referrals over the years. It has been a wonderful association and we appreciate the trust and creative freedom you give us to design floral arrangements for your beautiful restaurant and your customers.

Not only is it a pleasure to have you as a client but you are our favorite place for dining. Magnificent setting, wonderful food and a first rate staff that is always professional and accommodating.

http://www.boccacciosonthelake.com/home.html

Spring Is In The Air

2010-03-18T21:14:00.000-07:00

It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade. ~Charles Dickens

Spring Fever in a silver pedestal container. from $150 +.

Our Spring Fever line can be done in a smaller size in a vase, bubble bowl or a square glass container from

$ 65 and up.

Event Production and Floral Designs Provided by David Jeffrey Designs

2010-03-13T07:34:00.000-08:00

A Fall Wedding At Sherwood Country Club

David Jeffrey Designs “Customer Appreciation ”

2010-02-20T10:25:00.000-08:00

“Customer Appreciation ” is our small way to acknowledge how grateful we are to loyal clients.
Being in the floral business for nearly 30 years I’m often asked what is the formula for your success and longevity. The answer is very simple.... quality, customer service, distinctive designs, fair prices and a loyal customer base that will support you throughout the years.
“Word of Mouth” has been our primary advertising and there is no question that our long term customers are the reason for our continued success.

Customer Appreciation Honors - Francine Maroney

2010-02-14T21:20:00.000-08:00

Francine has been a customer and a friend for 29 years and from the first time I saw her walk by our shop she commanded my attention with her fabulous sense of style and sophistication. Our first shop was called Lorvin's Florist and we were one of the first stores to open the Gelson's shopping center in Westlake Village. We were young, enthusiastic and committed to establishing ourselves in the community as an alternative to the other flower shops in town.
Francine would walk by our shop frequently to pick up her dry cleaning and would look at our window displays and sometimes take a peek in the shop but hesitated to come inside which intrigued me. I assumed that she already had another florist she was loyal too and that made me even more determined to prove ourselves.
My thinking at the time was, if my mystery lady with her upscale taste liked us then I knew we were on the right track. So needless to say when Francine finally did walk into our store and introduced herself she was everything and more that I had imagined and over the next 29 years we have shared a long and wonderful association.
Dear Francine, we will always be grateful for your generosity, kindness, support and most of all your friendship and in your honor we have named one of our floral arrangements after you " Francine's Favorite" (Roses of course.)

Today's Featured Floral Presentation - Growy Garden Style

2010-01-11T14:16:00.000-08:00

Below are two floral arrangements that went out today and even though we are not professional photographers I think the pictures give you an idea of what our typical day to day floral designs look like. We call this a growy garden

Customer Appreciation Honors - Dayle Thomas

2010-01-02T16:00:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Dayle Thomas

Publisher of Westlake Magazine

We have enjoyed our wonderful relationship with the magazine from the very beginning and look forward to many more years of continued success.

P.S. Thank you for your confidence in our work and allowing us total creative freedom.

Your friends,

David Jeffrey Designs

A Heartfelt Happy New Year To All Our Customers

2010-01-01T16:40:00.000-08:00

A Letter from our customer.

2009-10-01T14:20:00.000-07:00

Dear David & Jeffrey,

On behalf of the 2009 Pro Am Tennis Committee, I want to thank you so much for your wonderful flower arrangements for our dinner/silent auction. We had over 240 people attending and everyone made comments on how beautiful the flowers were. We brought what little business cards were left that night to our Pro Am tennis tournament on the following Sunday and everyone was taken. You were, of course, listed in our program as a contributor so hopefully, you will garner more business in the future.

We so appreciate your supporting Foodshare and The North Ranch Country Club in our efforts to end hunger in Ventura County.

You both are awesome!

Thanks again,

Marla, Arnie, Foodshare & The North Ranch Country Club

End Of Summer Flower Special: Sunflowers

2009-08-16T16:50:00.000-07:00

Large Vase with sunflowers filled with your choice of Lemons, Oranges, or green apples $ 95.00
Small Vase or Bubble blow $ 40-50 .
Subject to availability

From now until the official end of summer we are offering an array of sunflower specials. From $40 per arraignment on up.

Sunflower

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Sunflower

Scientific classification

Kingdom:	Plantae
(unranked):	Angiosperms
(unranked):	Eudicots
(unranked):	Asterids
Order:	Asterales
Family:	Asteraceae
Subfamily:	Helianthoideae
Tribe:	Heliantheae
Genus:	Helianthus
Species:	H. annuus

Binomial name

Helianthus annuus
L.

Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are annual plants native to the Americas , that possess a large inflorescence (flowering head). Sunflower stems can grow as high as 3m (10 ft), and the flower head can reach 30 cm (11.8 in) in diameter with large edible seeds. The term "sunflower" is also used to refer to all plants of the genus Helianthus, many of which are perennial plants .

Head displaying florets in spirals of 34 and 55 around the outside

What is usually called the flower is actually a head (formally composite flower) of numerous florets (small flowers) crowded together. The outer florets are the sterile ray florets and can be yellow, maroon, orange, or other colors. The florets inside the circular head are called disc florets, which mature into what are traditionally called "sunflower seeds ," but are actually the fruit (an achene) of the plant. The inedible husk is the wall of the fruit and the true seed lies within the kernel.

The florets within the sunflower's cluster are arranged in a spiral pattern. Typically each floret is oriented toward the next by approximately the golden angle , 137.5°, producing a pattern of interconnecting spirals where the number of left spirals and the number of right spirals are successive Fibonacci numbers . Typically, there are 34 spirals in one direction and 55 in the other; on a very large sunflower there could be 89 in one direction and 144 in the other.^[1]^[2]^[3]^[4]^[5]^[6] This pattern produces the most efficient packing of seeds within the flower head.

Heliotropism

Sunflowers in the bud stage exhibit heliotropism . At sunrise, the faces of most sunflowers are turned towards the east. Over the course of the day, they follow the sun from east to west, while at night they return to an eastward orientation. This motion is performed by motor cells in the pulvinus , a flexible segment of the stem just below the bud. As the bud stage ends, the stem stiffens and the blooming stage is reached.

Sunflowers in their blooming stage lose their heliotropic capacity. The stem becomes "frozen", typically in an eastward orientation.^[^{citation needed]} The stem and leaves lose their green color.

The wild sunflower typically does not turn toward the sun; its flowering heads may face many directions when mature. However, the leaves typically exhibit some heliotropism.

History

Growing near Fargo, North Dakota .

Heads sold as snacks in China .

The sunflower is native to the Americas . The evidence thus far is that it was first domesticated in Mexico , by at least 2600 BC.^[7] It may have been domesticated a second time in the middle Mississippi Valley , or been introduced there from Mexico at an early date, as maize was. The earliest known examples of a fully domesticated sunflower north of Mexico have been found in Tennessee and date to around 2300 BC. Many indigenous American peoples used the sunflower as the symbol of their solar deity , including the Aztecs and the Otomi of Mexico and the Incas in South America . Francisco Pizarro was the first European to encounter the sunflower in Tahuantinsuyo, Peru . Gold images of the flower, as well as seeds , were taken back to Spain early in the 16th century. Some researchers argue that the Spaniards tried to suppress cultivation of the sunflower because of its association with solar religion and warfare.^[8]

During the 18th century, the use of sunflower oil became very popular in Europe, particularly with members of the Russian Orthodox Church because sunflower oil was one of the few oils that was not prohibited during Lent .

Cultivation and uses

To grow well, sunflowers need full sun. They grow best in fertile, moist, well-drained soil with a lot of mulch . In commercial planting, seeds are planted 45 cm (1.5 ft) apart and 2.5 cm (1 in) deep. Sunflower "whole seed" (fruit) are sold as a snack food, after roasting in ovens , with or without salt added. Sunflowers can be processed into a peanut butter alternative, Sunbutter . In Germany , it is mixed together with rye flour to make Sonnenblumenkernbrot (literally: sunflower whole seed bread ), which is quite popular in German-speaking Europe . It is also sold as food for birds and can be used directly in cooking and salads .

Sunflower oil , extracted from the seeds , is used for cooking , as a carrier oil and to produce margarine and biodiesel , as it is cheaper than olive oil . A range of sunflower varieties exist with differing fatty acid compositions; some 'high oleic' types contain a higher level of healthy monounsaturated fats in their oil than even olive oil .

Detail of disk florets.

The cake remaining after the seeds have been processed for oil is used as a livestock feed. Some recently developed cultivars have drooping heads. These cultivars are less attractive to gardeners growing the flowers as ornamental plants , but appeal to farmers , because they reduce bird damage and losses from some plant diseases . Sunflowers also produce latex and are the subject of experiments to improve their suitability as an alternative crop for producing hypoallergenic rubber .

Traditionally, several Native American groups planted sunflowers on the north edges of their gardens as a "fourth sister" to the better known three sisters combination of corn , beans , and squash .^[9] Annual species are often planted for their allelopathic properties.^[^{citation needed]}

However, for commercial farmers growing commodity crops, the sunflower, like any other unwanted plant, is often considered a weed . Especially in the midwestern USA, wild (perennial) species are often found in corn and soybean fields and can have a negative impact on yields.

Sunflowers may also be used to extract toxic ingredients from soil, such as lead , arsenic and uranium . They were used to remove uranium , cesium-137, and strontium-90 from soil after the Chernobyl disaster (see phytoremediation ).

Size

Sunflowers most commonly grow to heights between 2.5 and 3.5 m (8-12 ft). Scientific literature reports from 1567, that a 12-m (40 ft), traditional, single-head, sunflower plant was grown in Padua . The same seed lot grew almost 8 m (26 ft) at other times and places (e.g. Madrid ). Much more recent feats (past score years) of over 8 m have been achieved in both Netherlands and Ontario , Canada .

Cultural symbol

Varieties

The following are varieties of sunflowers (in alphabetical order):

Sunflower seedlings, just three days after germination

Red sunflowers.

Custom Summer Wreaths

2009-06-25T22:14:00.001-07:00

Mothers Day Flowers 2009 at David Jeffrey Designs

2009-05-06T22:40:00.000-07:00

A celebration of design.
If you see something here that you like and it's out of your price range we will try to reproduce that style within your budget.
All flowers are subject to availability so please order early if you have a specific flower arrangement you would like.
Call our toll free number at 800-858-8883

http://www.davidjeffreydesigns.com/

Mother's Day 2009 at David Jeffrey Designs

2009-04-22T16:20:00.000-07:00

Flowers thrown in a box with a glass vase is NEVER an option at David Jeffrey Designs.
Remember Mom with a beautiful custom floral design from professional designers with 30 years of experience.

Below is one of many interesting links I found concerning this holiday.
I've provided all the links below.

Mothers Day Origin

Moms are the best things that ever happened in the world. On May 11th every year, we celebrate 'Mother's Day' as an opportunity to express our love, respect and gratitude to our mothers for all the things she has done for us. Alchemy Webmedia has tried to consolidate the origin, history, legends and stories of this very special day, just for you.

The roots of Mother's Day go back to the ancient festivals dedicated to mother goddess. In the ancient Greek empire, Rhea, the wife of Cronus, and mother of Gods and Goddesses, was worshipped and honored at this time every year in a spring celebration. In Rome too, Cybele, a mother Goddess, was worshipped, as early as 250 BC. It was known as Hilaria, and it lasted for three days, called the Ides of March, that is from March 15 to March 18. In more recent times, during the 1600s, England observed "Mothering Sunday", or the "Mid-Lent-Sunday, on the fourth Sunday in Lent. It was quite identical to the modern-day celebrations.

In England where small chapels of ease served the ordinary needs of the country parishioners, the people went on Mid-Lent Sunday to the 'Mother Church' of the parish, laden with offerings. The historians hypothesize that the Mother Church was substituted for Mother Goddess by the early church, who adopted the ancient Roman ceremonies in honor of Cybele to venerate Mother Mary. And this is why it became customary to visit the church on the day of baptism or on Mother's Day.

The custom began for those working away from homes to return to their homes on Mothering Sunday with small gifts, or, mothering cakes for their mothers. Back home they presented their mothers with a cake and little nosegays of violets and other wild flowers gathered in the hedgerows as they walked along the country lanes. Whole families attended church together and there was a dinner of roast lamb, or veal, at which mother was treated as queen of the feast. Everything was done to make her happy. The custom of Mothering Sunday became more widespread during the 19th century. Any youth engaged in such act of duty was said to go 'amothering'. They day was celebrated with a festive mood appropriate to that day. The prominent dish was called furmety. It was a dish of wheat grains boiled in sweet milk, sugared and spiced.

In the northern part of England and Scotland there had been a custom of having steeped peas fried in butter, with pepper and salt. Pancakes so prepared passed by the name of carlings. It was so popular that from it Carling Sunday became a local name for the day.

The mothering cake also went by the name of Simnel cake. This was a very rich fruit cake, the richer the better. For, the Lenten fast dictated that it must keep until Easter. First boiled in water and then baked, it sometimes had an almond icing. At other times the crust was of flour and water, colored with saffron. The word Simnel comes from the Latin Simila, which means high-grade wheat flour.

The customs of the Mothering Sunday in England started to decline with the changing pattern of the society following the Industrial Revolution.

In the United States, Anna M. Jarvis (1864-1948) is credited with bringing in the celebration of Mother's day. Anna Jarvis intended to start a Mother's Day as an honoring of mothers. The idea itself was so great that it did not take long to be spread all over. Leaving aside the first observance, the official recognition that followed for the observance came in galore.
The governor of West Virginia issued the first Mother's Day proclamation in 1910. Oklahoma celebrated it in that same year. It stirred the same way in as far west as the state of Washington. And by 1911, there was not a state in the Union that did not have its own observances for Mother's Day. Soon it crossed the national boundary, as people in Mexico, Canada, South America, China, Japan and Africa all joined the spree to celebrate a day for mother love.

The immense popularity of the Day led to foundation of Mother's Day International Association on December 12, 1912. Its purpose was to promote and encourage meaningful observances of the event across the world. It was in 1934 Postmaster General James A. Farley announced a stamp to commemorate Mother's Day. The stamp featured the famous painting "Arrangement in Grey and Black". The painting was a portrait of the mother of James Abbott McNeill Whistler, an English artist. It was brought in to the United States as part of an exhibit in the year 1934.

http://www.themothersday.org.uk/mothers-day-origin.html

...

A Heartfelt Thank You To All Our Customers For Making Our 26th Valentine's Day A Success.

2009-02-14T16:07:00.000-08:00

Over 30 years in the floral business, 26 years serving the Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks and Ventura county area we NEVER take business or our customers for granted. So it is with deep gratitude and appreciation during this difficult economic recession that once again we sold out and had such a successful holiday.
A big thank you to all of our customers who continue to support us.

Sincerly,

David Jeffrey and the entire staff

Click this link to find out more about us in Westlake Magazine.

2008-09-16T23:30:00.000-07:00

http://www.westlakemagazine.net/Earth.html
http://www.westlakemagazine.net/featured_articles.html

THE EARTH LAUGHS IN FLOWERS
Ralph Waldo Emerson

By Carol Karm

To maintain a successful business in a small town for twenty five years requires highly unique talent, enviable client relationships, discretion and enormous personal charm. David Vincent and Jeffrey Camarda, better known as David Jeffrey Flower Design, have all these qualities.

From the very begining we put our emphasis on creating floral decoration that was artistically unique and elegant. Even today their effort is to buy as many flowers straight from the field so their creations are delivered field fresh and able to last far longer than normal arrangements. Currently all of their employees are trained floral designers, as are both owners.

They had always done a very good wedding business. When asked about longstanding clients, David mentioned he had recently done a wedding and that he had sent flowers to the mother of the groom on the day the groom was born. Now that is longstanding client! Many of clients of David Jeffrey Flower Design have been onboard since the opening of business 25 years ago. David is quick to mention that their clients are also very valued friends.

They had done celebrity business and television shows, but, as business progressed, David and Jeffrey began doing more parties and events. David liked the production part of an event and began doing all of the coordination of location, lighting, linens, china, catering and any special effects that the event seemed to need to be spectacular. And there have been some VERY spectacular events over the years.

They reminisced about an engagement party they did. The bride and groom wanted to create a sky bar effect in a back yard, but David felt the weather would be too cold and they would need a tent, which they didn’t want. David and Jeff put an addition off the back of the patio forty feet deep which was carpeted in white and had a false ceiling with three crystal chandeliers, sides of clear plexiglas with white drapes and white leather furniture and Lucite tables. The whole thing was bathed in the glow of hundreds of candles. At the entry stood a glass table with a base that said LOVE. Needless to say the future bride and groom and guests were speechless.

But not everything in floral design is weddings and parties. They talked about some of the funerals they have done. Jeff, speaking for both of them, said they feel strongly that in their business they are holding people’s most memorable days in their hands. A funeral it is the last thing you do for a person and they find it very moving and personal work.

From their first store, Lorvin, an ultra-elegant boutique, to Flowers on the Boulevard, a cozier but equally tasteful store, to their business now, the rules remain the same. First, start with the freshest flowers and floral material possible. Second, employ trained designers who understand the concept of designing with flowers. Treat them well and help them grow in their ability. Third, listen closely to the wishes of the client so that the client will always be amazed and delighted with the end results.

When asked what floral tips he would give someone, David was quick to say,” Find a florist you trust. Give him a concept and let him do the design.”
And this is how David Jeffrey Floral Design has enjoyed twenty five years of uninterrupted success in a small town.

We Did It! A heartfelt Thank You !

2008-09-16T14:07:00.000-07:00

9/16/08

I did the entire walk and I want to express my appreciation to all my friends and family that helped to support our efforts in making this a success and placing our Team Josephine in the Top Ten fundraisers for this event. We raised $37, 600 dollars.
We intend to make this an annual event as a tribute to the memory of my Aunt JO to help support and find a cure for the thousands of Woman and their families who face this awful disease everyday.
A special thank you to all my team members, especially to my cousin Donna Benevento who named the team after our Aunt Jo and did a great job as our team Captain and has been drafted to be team captain again.
My cousin Kenneth ( whose Mom we honor) and his wife Sharon Lawson for your generous overwhelming support.
Our dear family friend Jennifer Lindquist who started this and last but not least my partner David and son Alex for you support.

Below is the new link to my donation page if you would like to make a contribution to the 2009 Avon Walk to Fight Breast Cancer next September.
http://info.avonfoundation.org/site/TR/Walk2009/LosAngeles?px=4411699&pg=personal&fr_id=1830

Our goal for next year is to double our team and hopefully top what we raised this year.

Please contact me at my email address if you are interested in joining Team Josephine.

Everyone has a personal reason for taking part in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. It may be a sister, mother, best friend, or possibly even yourself. But for one weekend, whether you walk or volunteer, we’ll all be reaching for the same goal—finding a cure for breast cancer. Register to join us today for the 2008 Avon Walk Los Angeles, and prepare for a life-changing journey.

Southern California is about a lot more than just movie stars. The Avon Walk Los Angeles highlights some of the area’s stunning natural beauty, most notably its legendary beaches, palm trees, characteristically perfect weather and optimistic attitude. It’s a one-of-a-kind opportunity to leave the car behind September 13 - 14, 2008 and experience parts of the Los Angeles community you’re unlikely to see any other way.

Top Teams
Top Fundraisers
1 - Barbara Jo Kirshbaum
2 - Paula Schneider
3 - Ken Lawson------------Our Team Josephine
4 - Karen Block
5 - Judith Hirsch
6 - Ilene Berg
7 - Irene Kelly
8 - Deborah Shames
9 - Maddie Tappe
10 - Kristen Leavitt
Together, we walked with purpose.
We walked up to 26.2 miles on Saturday Sept 13, and 13.1 miles on Sunday Sept 14—all so that medically-underserved women and men can get the medical care they need and leading research teams can be supported in their ongoing search for a cure.

The Avon Foundation places a priority on returning funds to the geographic area in which each Avon Walk takes place with a special emphasis on reaching low-income, elderly and minority individuals and those with inadequate health insurance.
http://walk.avonfoundation.org/site/PageServer?pagename=walk_homepage

A message from David Jeffrey Designs

Dear Friends.
It's rare I ever solicit donations from my customers but this time I'm making an exception to our own rule.
Did you know that three million women are living with breast cancer--and one third don’t even know it? Even more startling, breast cancer kills aprox. one woman every 14 minutes, robbing us of our mothers and grandmothers, our sisters and aunts, cousins and best friends...Knowing this, I just won’t accept that there’s nothing I can do…

I have registered again to join the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer on Sept 13-14, 2009.
Yes you heard me right, your chubby florist is going to do it all over again and walk the entire 39 miles.
I know there were a few out there that had to pick themselves off the floor from laughing so hard but I did it and lost 30 pounds in the process.
This year our Team Josephine will have plenty of time to train, organize and make a difference so I would greatly appreciate if you would read the attached information and support my efforts.
Even though we are in a major recession and money is tight for everyone I'm asking for any amount that you can give to help out, whether it's a dollar or a hundred it all adds up. When you click on to the Avon Breast Cancer Donation page PLEASE don't be intimidated by the donation form and only give what you can afford.
If you want the AMOUNT to be anonymous you can do so and still have your name acknowledged.

If you've made a donation to our Team I will be happy to discount your next floral arrangement as a thank you for your generosity.
Please go the my Avon web site to find out more information on why this event is so important, and the organizations and people that will be helped by the money we all raise.
Thank you in advance.
Jeff Camarda & David Vincent

David Jeffrey Designs

Here is the direct link to the Avon Walk Breast Cancer Donation page:
If you have any problems getting to the site please contact me.
Just click on to the tab that says Support David Jeffrey:

http://info.avonfoundation.org/site/TR/Walk2009/LosAngeles?px=4411699&pg=personal&fr_id=1830

Premium Orchid Plants Custom Designed For You

2008-07-11T15:33:00.000-07:00

Top quality phalaenopsis orchid plants from $75 to $ 150.00

Wedding consultations are by appointment only.

2008-02-25T00:21:00.000-08:00

800-858-8883 or 805-376-2500

Please ask for David.