Certification, is it important to you?

When you have a plumber come out to you homes you would like them to have gone to school and be certified to work on your pipes, toilets, etc. The same with getting your taxes done, investing money, or having a tech work on your computer network. Wouldn't you always want the best educated, most skilled, and certified person for the job? I ask this because I have my certification as a floral designer and I am continuing on to test again for my AIFD. AIFD stands for American Institute of Floral Design, and only the top designers in the world have this title after their names. My question to you is; does it matter to you if I have gone to school, have my certification, or AIFD? Do you want the best in the industry or are the "Basement Bettys" (the designers who work out of their homes, and do not have their certification) on the same level to you? Is price the most important? I would love to hear your thoughts. Let me know what you would like to see in a designer, and what is the most important to you. Thanks, Lesa Killian CFD

The Christmas season

I love the Christmas lights and all the holiday decorations. The Christmas music spreads holiday cheer and spirit. My most favorite is giving gifts, and seeing the persons expression when they have received the perfect gift. All of us at 101 Market wish you the best Christmas ever this year! If you have last minute gift needs, we have fantastic ideas for you. Fresh floral arrangements work great for those loved ones who live far away, or for your holiday table. Merry Christmas, ho, ho, ho, Happy New Year! 2010 will be the best yet!
Lesa

Santas here this Saturday!

Have you been naughty or nice? Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at the Market this Saturday on December 5th from 1-4. Mrs. Claus will read a story at 2 p.m. and 3 p.m., cookies and milk will be served. The children will each receive an ornament from Santa, while supplies last. Hope to see you there! Merry Christmas!

MN State Florist Convention

Today I had the pleasure to attend the MN State Florist Convention. They offered mini break out sessions on business and design seminars, PLUS design competitions. What a fantastic way to be inspired. Our floral wholesalers came though BIG time in helping support our growing association. Thank you to Len Busch Roses, Koehler & Dramm, Lakeland Florist Supply, Hermes, Krueger, Tropical Gardens, and so many other suppliers. It is wonderful to be inspired to go out and service our customers to the top of our ability and WOW them with great design. The most fun or best part of our industry is the opportunity to keep learning. Every one has a different reason for being in our business with a different philosophy for being a florist or owning a business in the horticulture field. We are passionate people and love what we do. Thank you to all of you our customers who make it possible to live out our dreams. Lesa

What's your best day at work?

Many people ask me what my favorite thing to do at 101 Market is. My answer.....by far it is designing wedding flowers. My favorite moment is seeing the Brides face when she sees her bouquet for the first time. I think "Wow, this is why I love my job." Check out some of the designs at our floral page. I am passionet about design and sharing that love with others. It is fun to go to continuing education to keep expanding my knowledge, then going back and trying new things. This job is always changing and there is always something new to learn. There are down falls of course like in every job, such as the hours, (nights, weekends, long hours) and the stress of the time limits but the creativity is makes it worth while. Thanks 101 Market for a great job!
Lesa

Are people canning and freezing fresh produce like they used to?

As our Homegrown produce season is in full force, we were wondering if people still can and freeze produce. We feel that the canning and freezing produce is a dying art.
The younger generation does not have the experience or the time for canning. On our website nathes101market.com, "Seeds For Thought" our newsletter; is the recipe for freezing corn if you would like to give it a try. Our homegrown super sweet sweet corn is ready and perfect for freezing. Please comment as to if you are canning this year and what you are canning. Happy harvest season! Lesa

Aifd Symposium in Kansas City

The floral show called AIFD'S Symposium "The Sky's the Limit" was a life changing event for me as a floral designer at 101 Market. I tested for my "AIFD" (this is like getting a doctorate in floral design. Although you can not buy it or go to school for it, you have to test for it and be EXCELLENT) which was the hardest thing I have ever done in my life, but right up there with having kids; the most exciting. As a designer you are put in a room with 100 or more people stressed out of their minds for 4 hours and are told to create 5 designs. The membership committee has picked out 5 categories, you are given a surprise box of flowers and containers to use for these designs. You are only able to bring in 4 tools and you may not talk to any one for that full 4 hours. The stress was so palatable in the room you could cut it with a knife. As one of those stressed designers I was tired after 2 hours of designing because of how tight I held every muscle in my body. I did not even know I was doing it until I realised how tired I was. I had practiced for this but of course they gave me different flowers and colors than I had practiced with, go figure. Hum....so you can't buy your AIFD, you can't take enough classes to obtain it, and now you can not even practice for it in a real sense. You can practice techniques but not the total concept of what you will do for the test. I find out some time this month if I passed. So any of you who are reading this, please cross your fingers and toes for me:) If I do not pass will I do it again? If you would have asked me that the night of the test I would have said "No way in H...!" Now I say, "Yes of course I will". I just hope and pray I passed this time! Only about 10% pass the first time so I am not holding my breath but I am thinking positive thoughts! Keep posted and If I pass I will celebrate and let you all know by posting it here. I love what I do, and I will keep reaching for the stars! Lesa Killian, Designer

Diamond City Breads

You can smell the aroma of the fresh baked speciality breads from Diamond City Breads, in Elk River.
The fritter breads are a favorite - today's rhubarb is already sold out. We will be carrying the breads on the weekends, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The breads are healthy, fresh and taste great. Marilyn

One of my Favorite Wedding Couples!

Check out these beautiful pictures of Amanda and Calvin's special day at "www.studio188photography.com/blog".
I so enjoyed designing their flowers. Thank you for including us in your day. Best Wishes!!! Lesa

Smell Sampling

The other week, I was reminded on how adorable children can be. It was a Sunday evening near closing time at 101 Market, when a mother and her little girl came wandering into the store.

The girl, who I will guess was around the age of 5, bolted through the front sliding glass doors and headed straight to the corner of the store that is filled with rustic gifts and candles. I was sort of intrested why this particular child bypassed the shelves of the ever so popular Webkniz; which is usually a kid hot spot.

She waited patiently for her mother next to the shelves stocked with Milk House candles. It was only second before her mother was next to her and began pulling candles off the shelves, removing the lids and holding them for her daughter to sniff.I have to agree that the aroma theses soy candles give off is so strong and wonderful; it is hard not to indulge in the many scents.

As the two finished up their smell sampling they began to browse the store. The mother must have noticed my spying eye, and began to explain their situation. She told me, she gave her daughter the day, and she could pick whatever she wanted to do. Her daughter’s response was, “I want to go to the flower place and smell the candles.”

How precious, I told the mother. She laughed and agreed and continued to explain, their first time at 101 Market was three weeks ago and now everyday her daughter asks to comeback.I guess were aren’t embellishing when we said “we have something for everyone.”

By Amy Learn

To Plant or Not To Plant?

Can we plant our annuals, tropicals and vegetable plants now?
Well.... You may plant but you will need to keep an eye on the out side temps at night. Many of these plants are used to at least 60 degrees and some of those cool night temps may nip the sensitive plants or slow growth. If you are willing to bring your plants in at night, then by all means enjoy the pots and hanging baskets now. We are suggesting that people wait until after the 15th at least to plant veggies. Most people say Memorial day is veggie planting day. If you plant your tomatoes later they are more resistant to blossom end rot and other disease. They are sensitive and would need to be covered for sure.
Better safe than sorry? I guess that is for you to decide how much work you are willing to do to enjoy those early blooms.
Lesa Killian

A mother's gift

Tomorrow's the day, the day to pay tribute to the a very special woman. The woman who gave us life, nurtured us, and instilled life values to prepare us for our lives; that woman is our mothers.

The mother-child relationship is like no other, and over time it changes into something so special that one day is not enough gratitude.

As an adult, I realize it was the simple things my mother did that were so filled with love. Of course, growing up I never appreciated or acknowledged them; especially in my adolescence, when I was too proud and popular in my own world to recognize how truly wonderful my mother was then. She always put my sisters and me first, she taught us to live life to the fullest, chase our dreams and hold our faith close to our hearts. From her I learned the value of discipline and life lessons, which at the time seemed irrelevant, to me; God bless for her patients during those rebellious teenage years.

Today, my mom is my best friend, and I am proud to say much of her is reflected in me. Her values, her morals, her outlook on life are all traits I now cherish.

My advice for everyone is don't just give your mother a gift, give her your deepest gratitude for the woman she is and all she has done.

By Amy Learn

Eating grass and staying healthy

If you have been in 101 Market lately chances are you have noticed the patches of wheatgrass growing in various pots around the store. The item has been flying off our shelves just in time to decorate for Easter. But this adorable plant is more than just a place to store Easter eggs; it is an extremely healthy addition to anyone’s diet. One interesting fact I read was that 15 pounds of wheatgrass contains the same amount of nutrients as 150 pounds of fruits and vegetables! Wow, that's impressive.

The thought of consuming grass is probably grossing most of you out right now, but to be honest I’ve tried it and it isn’t that bad. I brought a small patch home the other night and my mom and I decided to give this health craze a try. First, we had to liquefy the grass; humans cannot digest the nutrients if it is left in the solid form. We didn’t have a juicer so we improvised; we blended it like crazy with a bit of water. Once it was in liquid form, we strained it and blended it again with grape juice and real fruit – to take the edge of the grass taste. I’ll be frank, the color is not appetizing. However, if you can get past that it tastes okay. It’s not something I now crave, but for how healthy it is I think I can put up with the grass taste.

By Amy Learn

First season flowers

Recently, many people have been calling in wondering when we will begin getting flowers. Well, the day has come; 101 Market will be receiving our first flowers of the season on March 26. Pansy pots will paint the greenhouse with their colorful petals and their spring essence. Hopefully, the presesnce of these annual beauties will mark the beginning of the sunny seasons. I know I’m not alone when I say, it’s time for the sun to break from the clouds and shed some warm rays across the frozen land we all call home. The first flowers are almost here, and hopefully the 70 degree days will follow shortly after.

By Amy Learn

The childish joy of Easter

It is official, Lent has begun and Easter is just around the corner. I can remember as a child Easter was such a compelling holiday, the imagination and excitement was like a second Christmas. Looking back on Easter morning, I would wake up surrounded by chocolate and candy eggs. Next, I would search for my hidden basket of candy and treasures. Reminiscing reminds me of how something so simple can be so fun. But just like all childish things, my Easter excitement somehow got away from me, and as I grew up, the simple youthful joy dwindled away.

As a new comer to the 101 Market staff, I am brought back to the joys of childhood as I walk through the store and see all of the wonderful brightly colored decorations, custom painted Austrian eggs, and stuffed bunnies and chickens.

I think maybe it’s not too late for us adults; maybe we still can let our inner child out during this religious holiday and go crazy with decoration, candies and toys. If you don’t want to spurge on yourself, splurge on others. Adults with children spoil them a bit and go Easter nuts, for in the end they will appreciate the memories. And as for the adults such as myself with no children, send a basket to a friend or family member, and remind them of the childish joy of receiving an Easter gift.

By Amy Learn

Veggies, Veggies, Anyone?

I was called the other day by the Star News Newspaper, they were looking for trends in the "Going Green" and gardening. This left me thinking......I think I may try a vegetable garden this year. We have books and a new gardening stick, that is supposed to make gardening a snap. All the top soil and fertilizer I could ask for right at my finger tips..... So this will be the year!! I am known to have a black thumb so this should be interesting. Lucky for me I spend day in and day out with fantastic gardening minds out in the greenhouse. Maybe they can help me from killing everything. I will let you know how my garden fares, let me know how yours is going and if you have any tips for me. Lets eat better together.
Lesa

Color, color, color

During the time of year when the snow begins to disappear, walking through 101 Market the one thing everyone is sure to notice is all the color. The new items painted with bright greens, yellows, pinks and blues, set the mood for the playful spring to come. Bee detailed glassware, fluffy bunny figurines and glittery butterflies ready to fly are proof of the very life spring will possess. While shopping the colorful world, one might forget we are still buried in snow. But don’t fret; just bring the season to your home and splash some color on the winter blues.

By Amy Learn

Keeping in good spirits

A person cannot go a day without hearing news about the horrible economy, which makes it hard to see any light at the end of the tunnel. Surrounding yourself with positivity just might be the key to keeping up good spirits in such hardship times.

Words we read impact on how we live our lives, what we expect from the day, and how we view ourselves and others. Phrases motive us and sayings captivate us. Become your own philosopher, get insightful and spread encouraging words all around you.

Be creative; think beyond the yellow sticky note pad and white erase boards. Fill your home with wall art containing quotes from well-known people like Opera, Marilyn Monroe and Kathryn Hepburn; pictures of your family and friends in frames painted with phrases of togetherness; metal signs of single words like bless and laugh. Go beyond and accessorize your yard with decorative rocks engraved with inspirational messages and silly expressions. Customize your car with Driving Reflections, a collection of inspiring words in an array of categories for those on the go.

101 Market is filled with items to keep your spirits high and those of the ones you love. With a vast variety of pieces, ranging in ever color, price and size, there is something for everyone.

By Amy Learn

Getting Married?

When you pop the question, or answer that big question what do you do next? Are you looking for that faerie tale wedding or are you going away to get married? What is the most important to you? The dress, food, venue, or Flowers?
The trend seems to be nice elegant weddings for a smaller guest list. This way the Bride and Groom have the wedding they want in their budget. Let us know how you see your special day.

Stay Vacations

We are hearing the "Buzz" of Stay Vacations and was wondering if you will be spending your vacation at home this year. Will you be putting more time and money into your yards or will you be traveling to the lake and other places?
How many of you will be starting or expanding your vegetable gardens? Will you start your seeds early in your homes?
What if any thing would you like to see in your favorite Garden Centers this year?
I look forward to hearing your responses.

What are you looking for on Valentines Day

In these crazy economic times are you looking for a dozen roses or would you be happy with a single rose and chocolates? Maybe a green plant or blooming plant is more up you alley? Let us know what you would like for Valentines Day!

Wedding Fair at the Crown Room

What a fun day! The Wedding Fair at the Crown Room in Rogers was so much fun! It was great to see the crew from CMWA and the Brides and Grooms. Gina (the gal in charge) did a fabulous job, her attention to detail is incredible. I will have pictures on the website soon! It was a very cold day for flowers but all in all every thing held up to the weather and looked beautiful. I am looking forward to a great wedding season in 09', if you are looking for a florist leave a comment or give us a call. I would love to talk to you.

More Valentine Specials!

Specials for your Sweet Heart!
Four Truffles in a sleek red box wrapped with a long stem rose and a ribbon. Only $12.99!
Two Truffles and a long stem rose for $9.99!
Priced perfect for you to remember all those Special Loved Ones.
Call for more details 763.441.4487

Valentines Special

We have 2 great specials for you this Valentines Day!
A cash and carry special, one dozen roses, filler and greens wrapped for $39.99
A dozen roses arranged in a vase for that someone special at $59.99. You will receive one FREE in the month of your choice; June, July or August. Just bring in your "Special Offer" coupon & your vase. You can pick which month you would like to pick up your roses.

Hot From the South! Gifts from the Atlanta Gift Show

We came we saw and boy did we buy, buy, buy! There will be lots of fun different gift items showing up on our door step daily. There will be the good old stand buys that you are used to seeing here at the Market but also some "new" looks as well.

We have some tasteful furniture coming with a surprise included with them.... Be sure to stop in and see for your self. They should be shipping by April 1st.

When you see some of the gifts we picked with you in mind you will get a "Hint" of what our corn maze theme will be this year.

If some one can guess the theme for next year I will enter them in to a drawing for a gift item that goes with the theme. I of course can not tell you what that gift item is because it would give you un-fair advantage. More info will follow when we get closer to the kick off.

We have the cutest acorn plants that you can watch em grow. Ask how you can be "Green" and have a fun wedding favor that will be the talk of the town. I will have a preview of this at the "Crown Room banquet & confrence center at the Wellstead of Rogers" wedding show on the 25th of January.

We have some darling bike planters that have a "French" feel to them. They will go fast and we only ordered a few. If you like them we can plant them up for you and they will be lush when it is time to go out on your porch.

Beautiful one of a kind vase orb sitters will add a spring feel to any desk or home. They are a great way to have a fresh floral to de-stress your atmosphere.

There are So many more gift giving ideas, I am so excited for you to come in and experience what makes us "Simply the Best".

The "Green Expo"

The "Green Expo" was informational and inspiring.
We learned and saw many new products that will be out for spring '09.
Check out "Twist ~n~ Shout" the new Endless Summer Hydrangea coming for Mothers Day.

Endless Summer Collection has done it again! They have come out with a fantastic new hydrangea called "Twist ~n~ Shout". This beautiful new performer is the first re-blooming lacecape hydrangea in the Endless Summer collection. This hydrangea earns blooming reviews for its beauty, color, hardiness with the ability to flower for the whole growing season!
The result of this cross of Penny Mac and Lady in Red is a lacecape with compact, upright habit and lucious blossoms of pink or periwinkle depending on soil acidity. Deep green glossy leaves turn a flamming red-burgandy in fall, making Twist ~n~ Shout a season long delight.
Easy to grow in zones 4-9, Twist ~n~ Shout will delight gardeners everywhere.

Hardiness Zone 4-9.
Likes partial shade.
Mature plant size is 3-5 ft.
This beauty is perfect for your landscape enjoy the endless color.