Beautiful Expressions Blog

We're Expanding...

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 21:22:00 GMT

Last year we were so blessed to have provided flowers for 47 weddings. Needless to say, that is a lot of work for this girl! I'm so excited to share with you that I have decided to separate Beautiful Expressions into two divisions. The retail side will remain the same. We will be offering beautiful everyday arrangements for delivery or pick up and unique gift items for any occasion. We will also have a separate company called Twigs and Posies to service all your event and wedding needs.

Catherine and I will be going on this adventure together. She has over 25 years of experience in the floral industry and is such a blessing to me. She will be working a few days a week in the shop and I hope you will stop in and make her feel welcomed! Thank you for your support!

Black Tie Affair-Shove's Pilgrim Chapel and Garden of the Gods Club

Sun, 30 Oct 2011 22:58:00 GMT

When I met Sarah and Bruce, they were absolutely lovely! They wanted their wedding to have a classic 1930's feel in mostly white, but a pop of color. I loved that Bruce was really involved in the flower process.

The ceremony was a small intimate affair at Shove's Pilgrim's chapel, which was a perfect small, romantic space. The stunningly beautiful Sarah walked down the candlelit aisle with a harpist in the background. Simply perfect! Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your black-tie affair.

The beautiful pictures were taken by Sara Joy Photography. I loved working with her.

Ceremony: Shove Chapel (Pilgrims Chapel)

Reception: Garden of the Gods Club

Dress: Little White Dress

Photographer: Sara Joy Photography

Black Tie Affair....Sneak Peek

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 21:58:00 GMT

I did my first black tie wedding this September. I totally loved the elegance of it all. I will share more soon, but here's a sneak peek.

Thanks to Sara Joy Photography for the great picture!

Bridal Fashion Week

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 02:29:00 GMT

I will be the first to admit that I am not the most fashion-forward person...Shocking I know!! People who know me well, know that I'm most comfortable in a Graphic-T, pair of jeans and my Keens. I'm very simple, or lazy when it comes to my own fashion. I honestly do wish I dressed more fashionably, but in my occupation, I stand for 10 hours at a time (comfortable shoes are a must) and I work with dirty product.

I will work on my inner fashionista as you admire some of the amazing designs from the NYC Bridal Fashion Week. The designs were filled with movement, glam, feathers, color and much more! Just as a side note, I have never seen Matthew Christopher's work and I'm completely taken back by the vintage, classic designs he produces.

If you are looking for a bridal shop that is ahead of the fahion-curve you really need to check out Something New Boutique in Northern Colorado Springs. They offer some of the most fashionable dresses I have ever seen and they are fabulous to work with!

Enjoy!

www.matthewchristopher.com

www.moniquelhuillier.com

www.verawang.com

Woodmen Valley Chapel Wedding

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 02:45:00 GMT

Morgan and Gentry were such a sweet couple. Morgan loved pink and sparkles, and I was happy to give her that! She knew exactly what she wanted....roses. The medium pink roses I ordered smelled A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! I wish all roses smelled that way. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your wedding.

Ceremony: Woodmen Valley Chapel (Stone Chapel)

Photographer: Megan Hardre Photography

Shove Chapel Wedding

Sat, 01 Oct 2011 02:53:00 GMT

I had such a great time working with Shannon and Ryan. Shannon had originally hoped that she could grow her own wedding flowers, but unfortunately, Colorado Springs climate makes it hard to have beautiful flowers ready for use in June. So, I had the priviledge of working with them. I loved the flowers we used and the blue love in the mist was a pleasant seasonal surprise. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your day.

Ceremony: Shove Chapel

Photographer: Megan Hardre Photography Thanks for the fabulous photos!

Fun Roxborough Park Wedding

Sun, 11 Sep 2011 14:34:00 GMT

Last night I had the priviledge of doing the flowers for a dear friend's daughter's wedding. We also were excited to attend. The ceremony flowers were in french blue, charcoal grey, and white. It was held at The Chapel at Red Rocks which has a beautiful view!

The reception was intended to be a fun party and it was! My 6 year old daughter will never want to go to another wedding after this one because the standards were set so high! They had a dragon bounce house obstacle course, face painting, balloon artist, and pinatas! Not to mention a special dinner of hot dogs and mac n' cheese with icecream sundae bar. We had a wonderful time and are thankful to be a part of the "family".

Here are just a few rough pictures of the reception flowers. I loved how they turned out because I was able to use fun tropicals like antherium, aranda orchids, and birds of paradise.

Each table had 3 mini cakes. They were so pretty and tasty!

Cheyenne Mountain Resort Wedding

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 23:46:00 GMT

July was our busiest month for weddings. We actually had both weddings that were held at the Cheyenne Mountain Resort on July 23 and it was so fun! Totally different designs, yet equally amazing!

Abby was one of those amazing brides! I absolutely loved how everything came out. She wanted her bridesmaid's bouquets to add a bright pop of color against their black dresses and she wanted hers classically elegant. The reception had calla lilies, blooming branches, and curly willow in a tall pilsner. Her husband wanted to add a natural touch, so we did floating candles in a cube with river rock. Thank you Abby and best wishes to you both!

Thank you to Snowshoe Studios Photography for the wonderful photos! I don't know what I would do without amazing photographers. Thank you!!

Spruce Mountain Ranch Wedding

Sun, 21 Aug 2011 20:48:00 GMT

I met Alicia through one of my best friends. She was really open to whatever I thought would fit well with the amazing scenery of the Spruce Mountain Ranch. Her colors were grey, green, and yellow. Colors I had been wanting to work with for a long time! She gave me so much creative freedom! We came up with a bouquet that looked like it was hand-picked out of the mountainsand we tied it off with burlap. I loved the way everything came out and my friend told me that even the groom thought the flowers were unique and original! What a compliment.

I loved looking through these pictures because you could see the joy and love these two share. Thank you Dan and Alicia for allowing me to be a part of your day!

Venue: Spruce Mountain Ranch
Bride/Bridesmaids Dresses: Something New Boutique
Photographer: Natalie with Karie Mclain Photography
Program Design: Amanda Klausmeier Design

Such a beautiful couple!

Oncidium Orchids, Yellow Finesse Roses, Grasses, Scabiosa Pods, Freesia, Kermits, Geranium Leaves, and Billy Balls and Wrapped with Burlap and Charcoal Ribbon

Geranium Leaves, Grass, Billy Balls, Scabiosa Pod, and wrapped with twine

S'Mores!! Spruce Mountain Ranch has a great outdoor fireplace to roast S'mores! So fun!!

Loss...

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 22:57:00 GMT

I love the community my shop is located in. I get to meet some really wonderful people and it's a special thing when they let me into their lives. I get to celebrate in their joys and cry with them in their losses. Today I feel sad because of the loss of a customer who was my friend. She was only 42, but had been fighting cancer quietly.

She was a kind-hearted person who left behind her husband and sweet son who she boasted of often. She was always concerned with how my shop was doing and loved to support small businesses in the community. She came in often just to say hi. She loved wildflower bouquets and our homemade colorado soap. She once told me she gives the soaps to people to help them remember Colorado or just as a little thank you. She was always thinking of others and will be dearly missed.

Red and Teal Wedding at The Inn at Palmer Lake

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 23:12:00 GMT

I had so much fun working with Emmy Jo and her mom Pattie. The moment they started telling me their vision I fell in love! Emmy wanted the day to be fun and full of personality. I love teal and red together, but you add milk glass and damask and I'm in heaven! Everything was vibrant, but vintage at the same time. She gave her bridesmaids felt flower bouquets as a keepsake. They were so cute!

The flowers we used were mostly gerbera daisies, queen anne's lace, and yes, carnations-they made perfect pomanders! Emmy's bouquet was snapdragons, ranunculus, dahlias, roses and wrapped with lace. Thank you Emmy for allowing me to be apart of your special day. I loved getting to know you and your mom and wish you a life of blessings!

Photographer: Real Photography Thanks for the fabulous pictures!
Dress: Something New Boutique
Venue: The Inn at Palmer Divide

Such a cute wedding party and check out all the red shoes!

Isn't this flower girl dress adorable!

Milk glass and felt flowers.

Look at these amazing details!

Air Force Academy and Phantom Canyon Wedding

Sat, 23 Jul 2011 01:28:00 GMT

Melissa contacted me more than a year before her wedding. I was so excited to hear about her wedding and all the fabulous details she had planned. She hand-made felt flowers that were going to be used in the centerpieces. They had the most amazing details. We created a design that was full of texture, but also had flowers that were soft and romantic. I cannot tell you how much I loved working with you Melissa and you looked so beautiful! I wish you and your family many blessings. On a side-note, after Melissa and I met she sent me the neatest hand-made card I have ever received! Thank you!

Ceremony: Air Force Academy Chapel
Reception: Phantom Canyon Brewery
Photographer: Love N Joy Photography

Pink finesse roses, parrot tulips, dahlias, scabiosa and poppy pods

Such a cute couple!

These are the felt flowers I mentioned...aren't they pretty!

Another great detail

Wedding at The Ritz!

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 19:26:00 GMT

In May, I received an inquiry wondering if I would be available June 18th because their florist wasn't going to be able to take care of their flowers. I felt so bad for Dominika and Blake! How stressful to not have a florist one month before your wedding. Thankfully, I was not booked. I really enjoyed working with Dominika! Her vision was gorgeous. She wanted lush, full arrangements with white roses, hydrangea, freesia, peonies, ranunculus and tulips. I love how everything came out! Thank you Dominika and Blake for allowing me to be a part of your special day!! The gorgeous pictures were taken by Jennifer at Candy Apple Photography. Thank you so much!

Venue: The Ritz Carlton
Church: Holy Ghost Church
Photographers: Candy Apple Photography

Sneak Peek of Wedding at The Ritz Carlton

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 14:27:00 GMT

A few weeks ago I had the priviledge of doing a wedding at The Ritz Carlton. It was really pretty. Here is a sneak peek.

100 Layer Cake Mini Feature

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 19:18:00 GMT

Carly Mitchell Photography and myself teamed up with Mirela, of StudioWed, and created an amazing photoshoot that was featured in 100 Layer Cake's Blog!

Carly really did an amazing job capturing the light and making everything look beautiful! Here are a few more photos that weren't put in the feature.

Love the lighting in this one

So many dimensions to this picture. Love the flower frame!

The light could not have been any more pretty!

Coral Peonies, Ranunculus, Scabiosa, poppies, sweet peas, and celosa

Vintage Hillside Gardens Wedding

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 16:25:00 GMT

I can not tell you how much I enjoyed working with Jacqui and her mom Kim. Jacqui has wonderful taste and when we started discussing her vision for her flowers, my heart was happy! The first thing she said to me was that she wanted her wedding flowers to be "slightly glam, but mostly vintage" The entire day was just that! Thank you Jacqui for allowing me to be a part of your special day. You were beautiful and everything else was so perfect.

We used a few really fun elements: succulents, cotton stalks from South Carolina, feathers and vintage lace, antique books and tins, bird cages, and much more! Jacqui made the awesome boutonnieres!

Venue: Hillside Gardens
Photographer: Jenna Noelle Photography
(Fabulous to work with and did an amazing job creating such unique photos. You'll have to wait and see the rest of the wedding pictures. They are stunning!)

All photos by Jenna Noelle Photography

Colorado Springs Wedding at The Marriott

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 22:43:00 GMT

I had a few weddings this year in March and April, but this wedding really "kicked-off" my wedding season-it's a busy one. I'm so blessed and thankful! Amanda was such a sweet and beautiful bride. I absolutely loved her birdcage veil and dress-the flowers she chose were just classic. We used champagne and ivory roses with stephanotis for her bouquet and red and burgundy "heart" roses for her bridesmaid bouquets. The centerpieces were a mound of red roses in a brown colored glass. So simple and rich. Thank you Amanda for allowing us to be a part of your wedding! I loved working with you.

Venue: The Marriott Lori was really fabulous to work with!
Photographer: Allison Chastain Photography
Thank you Allison for the beautiful pictures. They are perfect!
Dresses: David's Bridal

Wedding Season

Mon, 30 May 2011 14:32:00 GMT

Wedding Season is in full swing. I'm so excited for this year. I have some really fun and creative weddings as well as lush and romantic! I can't wait to show you the pictures as I start getting them in. I feel so blessed and thankful to be busy, and did I mention, I work with the best clients in the world! Ready, Set, Go....Beautiful Expression's weddings are off and running for the next 5 months!

Colorado Vintage Engagement Shoot

Tue, 17 May 2011 17:30:00 GMT

I was asked by Kathyn Bacalis Photography to join her on an adventureous engagement shoot. It required finding a free upright piano and then hauling it from Denver to on open field in Greenland, CO. Her couple was absolutely amazing and such troopers because it was pretty cold that day. I loved the way everything came out. The lighting was perfect and Kathryn really got some amazing shots of the couple.

Creating flowers for a shoot is a lot of fun for me because I have more freedom to really create. I love finding unique items to incorporate into the design. When I went to the wholesaler the dogwood was amazing and I thought it would add a vintage feel. I also found some colorado-grown ranunculus that had a rich, antique coloring to it that was so pretty!

I created the banner out of old sheet music I found at a local music store and I found the red burlap at a fabric store. I antiqued each pennant with dye. I love the way it came out.

I hope you enjoy this shoot as much as I did!

Flooding in Ecuador and Columbia that effects Floral Industry

Sun, 01 May 2011 19:32:00 GMT

Yesterday my wholesaler showed me some devastating pictures from Ecuador and Columbia. They have received their annual rainfall in the last 3 days and are trying to boat out the product they can salvage. Water is rushing through their greenhouses like a river. It's extremely sad to see people's entire livelihood in jeopardy.

Much like the food industry, the floral industry is directly impacted by Mother Nature, politics and the economy alike. Flooding, fires, droughts, and other devastating weather conditions drastically affect our growers, which in turn impacts product availability and prices. Gas prices, import regulations and taxes, as well as political and economic stability in the countries where our farms are located are all variables that may seem far off when it comes to ordering flowers, but every single one has a significant impact on the availability and cost of your flowers for everyday arrangements, holidays, and weddings. We aren’t trying to scare you by any means, but we do want all of our clients and event industry friends to be aware and reminded that the floral industry is global and influenced by many different variables, and unfortunately, these variables are far beyond our control.
(http://www.petalpushersblog.com/)

Miramonte Packing Room

Greenhouses at Miramonte

Miramonte House Protecting Pump Station

Greenhouses in Columbia

Updated Photo Gallery

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 04:24:00 GMT

We have updated our Photo Gallery! I'm really excited about the layout. I hope you find it more user-friendly and enjoy browsing our flowers.

Three Year Anniversary!

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 18:01:00 GMT

We are celebrating our 3 year anniversary! I am so thankful for each and every one of you. This has truly been an unforgettable journey! I love being a part of this community and God has blessed each relationship here! So, to celebrate, I would love for you to stop by the shop on Friday April 22, 2011 and enjoy some coffee and treats and if you are needing some flowers, enjoy 30% off wrapped bouquets!
***If your house if full of old vases, we recycle, bring us your old vases and in return we'll give a bouquet of flowers***

Next, I want to tell you about LADIES NIGHT April 28th from 6-8 pm. at Rock Solid Chiropractic (Near UPS store in Wal-Mart Shopping Center)! The event is FREE and we'll have food, shopping, door prizes, free massages, and special presentations. Plus, some of your favorite products/services will be there as well. Bring your friends for a fun evening.

Last, but not least, Mother's Day and Falcon High School's Prom is the same weekend-May 7th and 8th! We want to be able to serve everyone so we are asking you to Pretty Please order EARLY for both. We are going to having an amazing and unique selection of flowers for Mother's Day! Give your mom something special!

Thank you again for supporting me over the last 3 years and I'm excited to see what the future holds!

Happy Easter and Blessings-Amber

Artichokes in arrangements

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 22:55:00 GMT

This weekend I'm doing the flowers for a grand opening of a custom bridal shop in Old Colorado City. It's an italian themed event because the owner is from Italy! When I think of Italy, I think of rich colors, architecture, unforgettable smells and flavors. I have decided to create an arrangement that express those things. I'm going to use flowers in burgundy and puples and add some fun texture-artichokes. They will add beautiful color contrast and a different texture. I am so excited to go shopping for the flowers.

Whether you are planning a special event or wedding, try making the flower arrangements more interesting by using something unusual that adds texture and interest. It's always fun to add something that represents you as well!

Aren't these so pretty! I love their coloring!

Rifle Paper Co. -Wedding invitations and stationary

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 14:23:00 GMT

I was reading through my CountryLiving Magazine and came across an article about Anna Bond of Rifle Paper Co. Her work is beautiful and she still hand-crafts her products! Check out her amazing stationary and custom wedding invitations. They said she was located in Winter Park and my heart leapt...Florida, not Colorado...bummer...road trip!

Photo found here

Peonies

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 22:38:00 GMT

Peonies-probably the most requested wedding flower from brides in my shop. One of my favorite because it has a romantic/vintage look and smells great! Typically peonies are in their prime between the end of May and beginning of July. During the other months of the year, they are really small.

I recently found a wholesaler that could supply me with AMAZING peonies during the majority of the year. This is great news for brides! The downside is they will cost you a pretty penny for them, but they are available.

Fun Peony Facts:
*There are more than 30 varieties
*Symbol of Happiness
*State flower for Indiana
*The traditional flower for the 12th marriage anniversary
*Held in high-esteem in China and mean Honor and Nobility
*Named after Paeon a Greek god of medicine and healing

Below are some peonies I bought a couple weeks ago. They were flown in from Israel. Aren't they beautiful? Have a lovely weekend!

Random Thoughts....

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 16:26:00 GMT

Today I got an iced mocha from Starbucks with the new logo/branding. I like the simplified look. I believe it's a confident move on Starbucks part to remove the wording. They are saying to the consumer we are confident you know who we are...no words necessary.

It made me think about my own logo and branding. If I took the words away, would people know who I am and what I do? Something for me to think about and change if necessary.

On a personal note. If my words were few, would people know who I am and what I stand for.

Have a great Thursday!

Colorado Wedding Planner

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 17:28:00 GMT

I met Ashlee about 3 years ago when we started planning the floral design for her wedding. Her wedding was so well planned and everything turned out gorgeous! It is no surprise to me that she has chosen to open Smash Events! She is a wonderful planner with amazing and unique ideas. I believe that every bride should have help planning their wedding. It relieves so much stress and provides creative input. Whether you need help planning your whole wedding or someone to organize and oversee the day, Ashlee is a wonderful choice! We were so priveledged to have provided the flowers for her first bridal show! This is only the beginning...

photo compliments of smash events

Have I told you lately that I love you....

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 21:41:00 GMT

This Valentine's Day was really stressful. It always is. My body and mind are completely spent. All the build up to the holiday, all the pre-planning and then looking at the plan again to make sure everything will go smoothly is exhausting. Thankfully everything did go smoothly and that is due to the wonderful people who surround me and support me. I absolutely could not do it without each and everyone of you. I was overwhelmed yesterday as I thought about how much people do to help me be successful. Thank you!

I also realized as I was saying hi to those who stopped in this Monday, I KNEW a lot of them. They said how much they love coming to my store, they love what I offer, and I thought about how much I love getting to know them! Life is not always easy and my body and mind do get tired and weak, but my heart is completely full this week with all the love and support I feel from my family, friends, employees, and customers. I hope that I can be a blessing others in all that I do because so many have blessed me.

Thank you!

Broadmoor Wedding

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 03:10:00 GMT

In November, I was invited to the Garden of the God's Club bridal show and I ran into my childhood friend's brother. It was fun catching up and meeting his lovely bride-to-be Ellie- I just loved her! We met later that week to plan their winter wonderland wedding. I got to reconnect with my friend from kindergarten and design a lovely white wedding! Ellie wanted to incorporate her Hawaiin heritage, so we added lots of gardenias to the bouquets. Everything smelled wonderful! They wanted the reception to be a shimmering white wonderland so we lit the vases from below, added sparkling beads and all white flowers. Thank you David and Ellie for allowing me to be a part of your special day!

Ceremony: Broadmoor Community Church
Reception: The Broadmoor Hotel
Photographer: Lindsay Pierce Photography

A big thank you to Lindsay Pierce for these lovely photos!

Colorado Winter Wedding Inspiration

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 21:04:00 GMT

I had the opportunity to work with two amazing professionals to put together one AWESOME Colorado Winter Wedding inspiration shoot!

Carly Mitchell was behind the camera and Mary from mkgraces was behind the special vintage touches. I designed the flowers and love the way everything turned out! What a beautiful, cold day in Vail, Colorado.

Thank you Carly and Mary for doing such an amazing job! To see more amazing pictures of the day visit
Carly's Blog

Fall Wedding At The Club At Flying Horse

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 04:56:00 GMT

I have neglected my blog and I'm sorry. I will have some amazing things to share with you soon! For now, here are a couple amazing pictures by Miss Carly Mitchell from a wedding we did together this November at The Club at Flying Horse.

Valentine Flowers-More than roses

Tue, 04 Jan 2011 21:50:00 GMT

Valentine's Day can be a very high expectation day for many men. They want to really get something nice that shows they care, but aren't sure what their special person really wants. Society has put most men on auto-pilot when it comes to flower shopping. They immediately go with the rose. Roses are lovely and some of the hybrid varieties are breath-taking, but I want to share a little information on flowers that your special someone might love as well and will be easier on the pocketbook during the week of Valentine's Day.

Orchids-
They come in several colors and have a very long vase life. An very elegant choice. They represent exotic beauty and love.

Tulips-
A symbol of perfect love and dreaminess. There are over 3,000 varieties of tulips and they are shipped here from Holland.

Gerbera Daisies-
A happy flower that means beauty, wonder, and loyal love. Their vibrant colors are stunning.

Ranunculus-
"I am dazzled by your charm and beauty" What women wouldn't want her man to be dazzled by her!

Hydrangea-
Heart-felt emotions

Lily-
Purity and refined beauty

These are just a few options. Florists love coming up with something unique and specific for your loved one. Utilize their talents and expertise and have them custom-create something amazing this Valentine's Day!

'Tis the Season for New Year's Resolutions

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 18:12:00 GMT

With the new year coming up very quickly it makes me stop and think...what do I want to do differently this next year? I'm not big on resolutions-let's be honest, how many do we actually keep? I want to evaluate where I am and where I want to go. This year has been full of ups and downs, but they have made me a stronger person and I believe they have tightened my focus.

I want to love Jesus more, which in turn makes me want to love others more. Be a more patient mom and be more willing to drop what I'm doing and play with my sweet girl-even if I'm doing the dishes. I want to be a better wife, friend, and daughter. I want to bless people with my talents and use them wisely in my business. Now that I have the "what" I need the "how"-This is something that I will work on over the next week and hopefully come up with a plan to grow into the person I want to be.

In the mean time-I will try to lose that pesky 5 lbs., eat less, workout more and no matter what- I WILL have a wonderful time doing whatever is it I'm called to do. Be blessed this next year and always! Do something that makes you smile and enjoy the people around you. Thank you to everyone who is a blessing in my life!

Find Joy

Something New Boutique New Location

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 16:55:00 GMT

Yesterday I had the priviledge of viewing Something New Boutique's New and A-M-A-Z-I-N-G shop! It is so beautiful and spacious. My favorite is the lighting...Mindi has some sparkly chandeliers! Mindi's customer service has always been amazing, but now she can accomodate so many more brides, mothers, bridesmaids, and prom shoppers! There is a special space for everyone. Even the men! Venture north on Voyager past Interquest to Ridgeline Drive.

The Sneak Peek Soiree was put together by Ashlee at Smash Events. She did a wonderful job. The food was wonderful and the live band added so much to the atmosphere. She is putting together a new website, but you should contact her for all your planning needs!

We were honored to put together a few arrangements for the event. Rachael {Hope} Photography was there capturing the moments and I can't wait to see her fabulous pictures! I love all of these lovely ladies and so proud of each one of them.

Making Felted Wool Flowers

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 21:45:00 GMT

I really wanted to add a special element to a bouquet that I'm going to be doing in January. I decided to try my hand at felting wool to make some flowers. They came out pretty well and will be perfect in my lovely, yet quircky bouquet. Here's the steps I had to take to make them. (There are definitely better sites for instructions, but mine is a rough idea.)

I purchased loose wool from this awesome little store in Black Forest called Table Rock Llamas Fiber Art Studio. They have a wonderful assortmert of yarn, needles, books, wonderful classes you can take and much more! Check them out.

I first separated the wool and laid one layer down facing north and south and then alternated the direction of the layers for 4 layers. You can make it as many layers as you want depending on how thick you want the felted wool.

I then mixed a little dish soap with hot water and dampened my wool. After I worked the soap and water into the wool and it felt like the fibers were meshed together, I put it on bubble wrap to rough it up. I rubbed it until it the texture was sturdy. I then rinsed it with cold water and squeezed it out...don't ring it out.

This is what the felted wool looks like after the water treatment. You have to let it dry before working with it again.

I then cut it into the shape of a flower and layered the colors to make a pretty! It was a lot of fun and I can't wait to see it with the winterberries, tulips, and whatever other amazing flowers I can find at the wholesalers that week!!

What we're up too...

Sat, 04 Dec 2010 20:19:00 GMT

I CAN NOT believe it is December. Where did the year go? I'm getting ready for the shop's open house and it really puts me in the Christmas mood. I love the warmth that candles and lights create and the yummy smell of apple cider! I'm so thankful for so much this year, but also looking forward, in great anticipation, for a fabulous 2011!

We have one more wedding this year! I'm so excited!! It's going to be a beautiful winter wonderland at The Broadmoor Hotel. I can't wait to see the white flowers and sparkling beads and candles. It will be gorgeous!

We are also doing the flowers for a special sneak peak, which I will have to reveal later. It too, will be a beautiful display of white and elegance for the holidays.

I also can't wait to show the wedding we did in November at The Club at Flying Horse with the amazing Carly Mitchell! You'll have to come back to see it...

myweddingplace.com

Denver/Front Range Photographer

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 21:54:00 GMT

I recently had the opportunity to work with Rachael from Rachael {Hope} Photography on a special project...I'll let Rachael be the first to share her project...so you'll have to stay tuned to her blog! We had such a great time! She is an amazing person and photographer. Here is a little information about her and her company.

r{h}p, LLC is a Denver based company owned and operated by Rachael MacPhee since 2008. Rachael works all over the front range, creating photojournalistic and editorial style photos with her fun and fabulously collaborative clients. Personally, Rachael enjoys adventures with her husband Drew and doggie Manchester, planning for the arrival of her first son Henry (coming Spring 2011) and perfecting her apple pie recipe while listening to a little folk music.

Here is a sneak peek of our project. I had so much fun creating the flowers. I would love to use the designs in a real wedding!

Thanksgiving Centerpieces

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 21:29:00 GMT

Thanksgiving is just a little less than two weeks away. I'm thankful for so much in my life. This year has been full of heartache in many areas, but I know that God is good and I am truly blessed in so many ways. I have to remember to praise Him-always! This year I get to celebrate Thanksgiving with my dad's side of the family. We are having our 1st Annual Grooms Family Reunion! Watch out Colorado Springs, it might get a little crazy with all of us concentrated in one area. I have cousins and 2nd cousins I haven't seen in years. I sure miss getting together every Christmas, but as our families grow, our time gets harder to share with extended family.

I pray that you have a wonderful Thanksgiving and count your blessings. Enjoy this season!

If you are having people over for the holidays, we would love to help you dress-up your table.

Colorado Springs Chamber After-hours

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 14:12:00 GMT

I had such a great time tonight at the Colorado Springs Chamber's After-hours networking get-together! I met some really great people! Here is a picture of our table with the moss runner. I loved the way the fall tablescape came together.

Unique Wedding Centerpieces with Moss

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 14:14:00 GMT

I love working with natural items that add character and uniqueness to a design. Tomorrow I'm putting together a table scape that is going to rock! Birch wreath, pumpkin gourds, candles, kangaroo paw, orchids, dahlias, grasses, and a moss table runner!!

Today at the wholesaler, I found a roll of moss that is preserved and ready to wrap around vases, cut into place mats, or roll out as a runner. So many possibilities. Add a few cylinder vases, floating candles, curly willow, and a few flowers and you have an amazing, unique centerpiece. I will post pictures tomorrow of the table scape!

White Pumpkin Fall Decoration

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 14:26:00 GMT

I found these AWESOME white pumpkins at Safeway today and had to put together this fall decoration of pumpkins, bittersweet, and fern for the flower shop!! They are super easy. Just stack the pumpkins on top of one another. I made two of them to go on either side of the door. Hope you love it as much as I do! You could use them inside an entry way or outside on your porch. If you were to purchase smaller urns and pumpkins, you could use them as a table decoration with a few candles around. Have fun!

I did something similar to this for the shop. Centsational Girl is a great place for decorating inspiration.

Using Vintage with your wedding flowers

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 18:16:00 GMT

I am a huge fan of using old and new items in floral decor to add interest to your wedding. You can use antique or heirloom items in your bridal bouquet, hair or pinned on your dress. Antique or thrift store items can really show your personality. I hope you enjoy this blog post from MyWedding.com as much as I did!

Thrifting Antique Silver Pieces for Stunning Centerpieces

Something old, something new,
Something borrowed, something blue
And something silver for you!

If you’re meddling around thrift stores, antique markets and garage sales you
can easily find fabulous personalized touches. Treasures such as vintage silver plated tea sets,
sugar bowls and candy dishes are easy finds, inexpensive and oh-so-elegant in wedding décor.
As a greener alternative, purchasing used items adds a dash of something soulful to your wedding too.

To create your centerpiece you’ll want to build a collection of objects similar in shape and size;
consider tea sets of similar scale but varying design. Filled with floral and grouped together,
they are stunning and sophisticated. Bargain blooms such as baby’s breath and carnations,
used en masse love to live in these stylish pots. However, make sure your containers are at
least three inches deep if you are using them for arrangements – definitely consult your florist first!

Three piece tea sets can be as low as $5.00 making them a steal, just keep in mind, most used silver
requires polishing to truly shine. Totally tarnished is not so pretty, but a bit of patina can add pizzazz.
Use a non-toxic baking soda bath to soak the crud off or consider an eco-friendly dip such as Earth Friendly’s Silver Polish.

Sustainably chic, your carbon foot print will be significantly smaller because of your efforts.
And in order to keep the cycle of reusing going, treat them as favors at the end of your event.
Give your pieces as gifts to your most special guests (grandmothers, aunts and godparents) as sweet surprises that create lasting keepsakes they will remember forever.

William is a designer for MyWedding .com and owns WM Events.

Fall Wedding Inspiration

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 19:41:00 GMT

Fall has to be my favorite time of year to do wedding flowers and decorations. There is so many stunning color combinations as well as amazing texture and fun inexpensive decorating ideas. I loved this chair swag for the bride and groom! Unique. There are so many other great uses for apples-escort cards, carmel apple favors, buckets of apples for centerpieces-that's just a few!

What You'll Need:

8 - 10 small apples (I used Granny Smiths)
Bailing wire
6 yards of ribbon or trim (3 different styles)
Wire Cutters
Scissors

Instructions:

1. Select 8 apples (or so) and line them with the smaller ones on the ends,
and the larger in the middle. (see image A)

2. Cut a 3 foot length of bailing wire using your wire cutters.
Make a loop at one end, and twist the tail around to close and secure. (see image B)

3. Take your first apple and run the wire through the upper half, centered on the stem.
  Slide it down the wire until it meets the loop. (see image C)

4. One by one, carefully string the apples on the wire in the order in
which you arranged them in step one. (see images D, E and F )

5. Make a loop with the remaining wire. Twist to secure. (see image G)
Trim away any extra wire.

6. Cut six lengths of ribbon, roughly one yard each.  Gather three ribbons
and tie them to one end of your apple swag. (see image H)

7. Gather the remaining three ribbons and attach them to the other end of the swag.

8. Hang your swag across the back of your chair. You can dress the Bride and Groom's chairs, all the chairs at the head table, or the entire room.

The swags can be made several days in advance if stored in a cool place.

Idea provided by Laurie Cinotto

Colorado Springs Photographer

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 18:32:00 GMT

This last week I had the priviledge of meeting with the super talented Carly Mitchell! We had a great time talking about how we got started in our businesses, what we love, the wedding industry, and how we want to offer so much to our clients. I'm so excited to work with her in November for a wedding at The Club at Flying Horse.

Here is a little sampling of her work!

I LOVE this picture!

Colorado's Top Wedding Florist

Sat, 11 Sep 2010 16:57:00 GMT

We are so excited to share that we have been selected as one of the top two floral designers in the wedding industry in Colorado. Thank you all for your support and we are so blessed to work with such great brides, venues, and vendors in Colorado Springs. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! Colorado Wedding Style will be featuring an article about us soon!

Colorado Springs MyWedding.com

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 20:31:00 GMT

We have been advertising on MyWedding.com for a while now, but our advertisement just got a facelift. Check it out- It looks great! This site is a great resource for all your wedding planning in Colorado Springs.

Happy Labor Day!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 02:56:00 GMT

Mutton busting-an event held at rodeos similar to bull riding or bronc riding. In the event, a sheep is held still, either in a small chute or by an adult handler while a child is placed on top in a riding position.

This is what my little girl wants to do this weekend. My husband asked her, "So, you want to try to ride a sheep and fall off?" Her respone, "NO, I want to WIN!" Love her Can-Do attitude! We're off to the State Fair. I'll post pictures! Should be a fun time.

Colorado Springs Wedding Flowers at The Club at Flying Horse

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 00:52:00 GMT

This weekend we had a wedding in Colorado Springs at The Club at Flying Horse. Here is a little sneak peak. I can't wait to show you the bride's shoes and dress! Absolutely gorgeous!! Her colors were black and white with accents of blue. Everything was so classy. The bride's bouquet was white hydrangea, calla lilies, stephanotis, fern tails, and the stem was wrapped with black and white and rhinestone buckles. The bridesmaids carried blue hydrangea bouquets.

Found some....

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 18:36:00 GMT

So last week I asked brides-to-be or brides in Colorado Springs to let me know of wedding vendors that are awesome! Well....my friend, who is awesome, found a photographer and I found one. Here are their websites. I think they are pretty amazing and should be recognized!

www.cassidybrooke.com

www.carlymitchellphotography.com

Colorado Springs Wedding Vendors

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 22:42:00 GMT

I love meeting new professionals in the wedding industry and I would love to hear of the awesome vendors or venues you have worked with. Individuals in the Colorado Springs area that are super awesome at what they do and want to offer brides something new and different! Leave a comment or email me (amber@yourbeautifulexpressions.com) the people you love. I want the brides of Colorado Springs to know there are options that will give them the wedding they have always dreamed of-not the wedding everyone else has already had!

Photo by Audrey Hannah Photo

Cheyenne Mountain Resort Wedding

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 19:35:00 GMT

In July we had the priviledge of doing Danielle and Joshua's wedding at the Cheyenne Mountain Resort. It's such a pretty venue.
One of my favorite flowers are orchids and her bouquets were full of them! The bridesmaids were wearing black dresses and carried bouquets of fuschia mokara orchids with bear grass. Danielle's bouquet was white cymbidium orchids with dendrobium orchids and a few white roses tucked in. Danielle's dress was gorgeous. She was such an adorable bride! A very sweet couple. Best wishes to you both.

Photos by Modern Image Studios

Fresh Lavender bouquet

Sun, 15 Aug 2010 23:26:00 GMT

This weekend we did a wedding at the small chapel at the First United Methodist Church in down town Colorado Springs. I LOVE this chapel. It's small, intimate space is beautiful and full of character-stained glass windows and dark wood pews! It is one of the most peaceful chapels I have ever been in.

The flowers were simple, fragrant, and beautiful. The bouquets were made of fresh lavender and tied with white ribbon like they were fresh-picked out of the field.

Wedding at The Club at Flying Horse

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 17:59:00 GMT

This year has been full of weddings I just love!! This one is no exception. Natalie wanted an elegant English garden feel. I love the muted colors of pink, green, ivory, and peach. We used hydrangea, roses, lisianthus, sweet peas, hypericum berry, Queen Anne's lace, and hanging amaranthus. The wedding was in Colorado Springs at The Club at Flying Horse and the day was absolutely gorgeous. The staff at Flying Horse is amazing and the venue is beautiful! The bride wore a gown from Something New Boutique (I'll post a picture when I get it), but it was beyond gorgeous...lace with detailed beading and the fit was fabulous. Holly Pacione was gracious enough to come along with me to get some great shots of the flowers. Thanks again!

Fox Run and Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame Wedding

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 21:26:00 GMT

Last week we designed the flowers for Ashley and Axel's wedding. They had a beautiful black and white wedding at Fox Run Park, in Colorado Springs and their reception at the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame. Ashley chose dahlias, lisianthus, berries, and feathers for her bouquet, and spider mums, berries, and feathers for her bridesmaids bouquets. Her boutonnieres were feathers and berries! I love when I can use unique items for boutonnieres. Thanks for allowing us to be a part of your wedding! Many blessings to you.

All photographs were provided by Holly Pacione Photography! Check her out. She and her husband do an awesome job!

Colorado Mountain Wedding

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 13:23:00 GMT

I had the priviledge of doing the flowers for one of my childhood friends. Our parents taught together and for a couple years we lived right next door. I love when family and friends allow me to be a part of the special days! Thank you Sara! Her wedding was one of my favorite color combinations...red and teal. The were married in the mountains of Colorado near Frisco. She wanted something simple and natural, but had pop! We used red gerbera daisies and bear grass. The weather was gorgeous. Many blessings to you Sara and Eric!

Feathers and Wedding Bouquets

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 13:14:00 GMT

Feathers have become very popular in wedding bouquets. They are a fun way to add personality-subtle elegance or a little funk! Feathers are also a great way to add color to a bouquet that doesn't occur naturally-black and teal are huge colors right now. Have fun and make your bouquet your own!

Colorado Springs Wedding Invitations

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 21:16:00 GMT

Beautiful Expressions is so excited to be able to offer our brides a little something more. We are now an Envelopements Retail carrier. We are able to custom design your wedding invitations, menu cards, place cards, table numbers, favor boxes, programs, and just about anything you want to be made of paper! We also have a wide variety of templates that we can choose from as well.

Complimentary consultations are available. Call to schedule one today or check out our online showcase. We are so excited to add this quality paper company to our quality flower company.

Lumber Baron Mansion Wedding

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 21:04:00 GMT

Yesterday I had the pleasure of doing the flowers for one of my family's long-time friends daughter. Kerstin has amazing taste and every detail was perfect. The wedding was in the garden at The Lumber Baron Mansion in Denver. Kerstin's bouquet was shades of pink peonies, ranuculus, hanging amaranthus, and queen anne's lace. It looked fresh-picked from the garden. Her centerpieces were in antique tea biscuit tins (LOVED THIS!!) She also had antique paper rolled into cones to hold petals and they were clipped to a wire birdcage rack. She had some amazing vintage looking laterns and fun personal details everywhere. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your day and many blessings to you!

Colorado June Weddings

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 00:16:00 GMT

June has started with a bang! It's a month full of weddings. We had a wedding last weekend and it was gorgeous! All white mokara orchids for the bride and beautiful pale yellow orchids for the bridesmaids. Simple and elegant. This weekend we have a wedding at the Historic Pinecrest-a little bling, and The Colorado Springs School-lots of beautiful color. Both are going to be amazing. I can't wait to show you.

We will get the next weekend off and then we have 4 weddings in a row the last week of June. We will be at The Club at Flying Horse, Garden of the Gods Club, and two in Denver! I'm so excited for this wedding season! So many fun designs and wonderful places to work. I LOVE my job!

Wedding at The Club at Flying Horse

Sun, 23 May 2010 13:21:00 GMT

Yesterday we had the pleasure of putting together the wedding flowers for Melissa at The Club at Flying Horse in Colorado Springs. It was a gorgeous day except it was so windy! I hope that Melissa was able to have her ceremony outside. Melissa had such great style. The centerpieces were a collection of different vases with dahlias, roses, and hydrangea. The tall centerpieces with quince branches and limes! Everything looked really amazing! I loved the way the bouquets turned out as well. The bride wanted her flowers to be more peach and green so we used green cymbidium orchids, peach dahlias and two different types of roses, hypericum berry, and mokara orchids. The bridesmaids had similar flowers with the addition of mini calla lilies. Thank you Melissa for allowing me to be a part of your wedding and many blessings to you.

Pinecrest Wedding

Thu, 13 May 2010 21:36:00 GMT

In April, I had the priviledge of doing the wedding flowers for Nicole. Her wedding was at the Historic Pinecrest in Palmer Lake. It's such a neat chapel! I love when I get the opportunity to go there. Nicole's wedding colors were cranberry, green and ivory, and she loved Gerbera daisies so that was the focal flower. Thank you Nicole for allowing me to be a part of your wedding.

Mother's Day Flowers

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 15:49:00 GMT

Mother's Day is next Sunday May 9th, and I'm so thankful for my amazing mom and wonderful mother-in-law. What would I do without them? They are loving, compassionate, and always there for me!

Beautiful Expressions is excited to provide your mom with gorgeous flowers, plants, or special gifts. We completely customize our arrangements and gifts to fit your mom's personality. Call us today 719.494.0209 to create a wonderful gift for your amazing mom! We deliver to Falcon, Peyton, Elbert, Calhan, and Colorado Springs. Remember to order local for the best quality and value!

My amazing Mom!! (first mother's day in the shop)

Antebellum Design

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 13:51:00 GMT

One of my dear friends and mentor has started her own floral design studio with a few ladies in Dallas/Fort Worth area! Cheri is an amazing designer. Her creativity will take your breath away. I'm so glad to call her a friend and I'm so thankful I got to spend 2 years learning from her and her mom! Many blessings and success to Antebellum Design!

Two Year Anniversary

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 03:37:00 GMT

Two years ago our family began a journey that would make us laugh and cry and take us through more than we ever imagined. It has brought the most amazing people into our lives and we are so thankful for this time. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone that has walked with us and thank you to all of our wonderful new friends! A little flash back to our first days...we weren't sure how we were going to make it through the chaos, but by mother's day we were a well-oiled machine! Ha! We are really looking forward to providing amazing flowers for you this mother's day...our 3rd...we're pros!!

Colorado Dream Wedding

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 15:25:00 GMT

Beautiful Expressions is proud to be a part of Colorado Dream Wedding ! We will be providing wedding flowers for the lucky winner. Here are the details:

Win a Colorado Dream Wedding worth over $8500! Includes, Ceremony, Reception, DJ Entertainment, Photographer, Cake, Flowers, Decor AND a 5 Day Cruise!

Brides can register to win at the Bridal Festival Show at the Phil Long Expo Center April 25, 2010. The winner will be announced at 4:00 pm at the show. You must be present to win. You can also register at My99.9 and KCCY 96.9

audrey hannah photo

Colorado Springs Wedding Florist

Mon, 12 Apr 2010 20:00:00 GMT

Beautiful Expressions recently provided flowers for a wedding shoot in Denver. It was fun to put together some of my favorite flowers, colors and textures for the shoot. ( I was hoping poppy pods would be available, but no luck...they are my favorite texture!) Wedding flowers this year are more bold and full of personality. Brides are not afraid to use color and personally, I think it makes everything else pop! We used purple anemones, roses, trachilium, pink ranuculus, blue delphinium, dusty miller, and blue beading. In the boutonniere, we combined blue thistle with ranuculus and a little bit of beading. Brides are adding special touches to bouquets: beads, feathers, and buttons are some of the fun trends.

www.kmclain.com

Colorado Wedding Photographer

Tue, 06 Apr 2010 18:51:00 GMT

I have had the pleasure of knowing Karie for 2 years now. We first worked together on wedding in the Spring of 2008. Karie Mclain is an amazingly creative photographer. Your pictures are going to be truely unique to your personality and a work of art! She is fun and easy to work with. I would highly recommend her for your wedding day! Check out her video below. Beautiful Expressions provided the flowers for the shoot. They were a mix of blues, purples, and hot pinks-anenomes, roses, blue thistle, ranuculus, delphinium, and dusty miller.

Karie Mclain Photography - Promotional Film HD from Premium Digital Solutions on Vimeo.

Birdcage Veils

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 20:58:00 GMT

Last night I was watching one of my FAVORITE movies...Sweet Home Alabama!! What girl does not love this movie? As I was watching Melanie get ready to walk down the aisle, I began to wonder if her birdcage veil was the beginning of a wonderful trend in the wedding industry. I love the versatility of these veils. A bride can choose whatever flower or feather that best fits her style, and this can transform her look into classic hollywood, vintage, or modern contemporary!

Prom Flowers

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 18:58:00 GMT

Prom is just around the corner. Our mission this year is to provide you with flowers that express your personality! Babies breath and plain ole' elastic bands are out! We have some awesome sequin bracelets, irredescent bead bracelets, and to add a little bling-the rhinestone bracelet. We are also offering orchid bracelets with keepsake beads woven in.

Come check out our "Corsage Bar"-You pick the bracelet, flowers, ribbon, and any other add on!

The gentlemen will not be left out either. We have some awesome magnetic boutonnieres and you can add a little color with some irredescent leaves and rhinestone sprays!

We will be offering roses and orchids in many colors. We promise your wristlet or boutonniere will be customized to fit your personality!

Find Your Inspiration

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 21:49:00 GMT

Right now it seems like many people have had "one of those years." It definitely hasn't been an easy year for me, but during this season I have found out a lot about myself, who I want to be, and who I can become. During these times we have to dig deep, pray often, and find inspiration to keep us going. Here are a few things that have kept me inspired this year...

1) Daily time in The Word-it reminds me that God loves me, He encourages me and He provides wisdom when I have none. He has given each of us gifts and talents and that inspires me daily to be all He has called me to be.

2) Artists-whatever realm it is in, I am constantly inspired by the amazing, creative people I am surrounded by. They help me grow, they push me, and they bring out my creativity.

3) My daughter-She is full of life and laughter, and makes me laugh when I want to cry. With such enthusiasm she'll tell me, "Mom, you're the best flower maker ever!" She believes in me and that helps me to believe in myself.

When things aren't going your way, count your blessings and try to inspire someone around you...chances are, they will inspire you!
Photo by Karie McLain-thanks for inspiring me regularly!

Spring Into Gloss

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 21:51:00 GMT

Saturday March 20th Beautiful Expressions is teaming up with Lisa, the owner of Gloss, a boutique at The Promenade Shops at Briargate in Colorado Springs that features premium denim and complementing merchandise and accessories. We will be providing flowers for their spring sale. Come by and pick a flower from their garden and receive a special discount! Lisa and her employees will make your shopping experience a wonderful one!

Our 2010 weddings

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 22:58:00 GMT

Today I have spent the day organizing my weddings for 2010. Some of these weddings have been booked since August of last year! Revisiting each one has been exciting! I picked out the types of flowers to use, coordinated the colors, and visualized each wedding! The flowers for my 2010 weddings are vibrant and fun, elegant and lush, and really FABULOUS! I can't wait to do my first wedding in April! I'm looking forward to being at some of Colorado Springs' best venues this year, and excited to be working with some of my favorite photographers.

Beautiful Expressions is not only doing Colorado Springs weddings this year, but we have booked a few amazing weddings in Denver as well. I'm hoping to get a few mountain weddings too.

www.kmclain.com

Fun vintage wedding

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 03:29:00 GMT

Finding new and exciting ways to bring flowers into a bride's overall wedding theme is what keeps me coming back for more. I absolutely love to come up with new ideas for a bride's flower and total wedding decor. The trends of colorado weddings seems to be that of elegance, with attention to details, and very collectic. I LOVE this trend. This summer I am doing a wedding that is incorporating tea biscuit tins into the centerpieces. The flowers are going to be peonies, ranuculus, and hydrangea to give an elegant garden feel. I love that as a florist, I can bring in different containers, flowers, and linens, and still creating a unified look. I found a vintage style board at www.dessy.com that I just loved! Enjoy!

"THE LIST"

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 22:15:00 GMT

We are so excited to announce we have been chosen to be a preferred vendor or on "The List" for COUTUREcolorado. This is an awesome new blog that gives brides "one of a kind wedding inspiration" and the BEST vendors in Colorado! We are really looking forward to all 2010 has in store. I have some amazing weddings on the books already and can't wait to see where we will go this year. Thank you to all my wonderful and amazing brides!

Valentine's Day

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:08:00 GMT

"Love and kindness are never wasted. They always make a difference. They bless the one who receives them, and they bless you, the giver." Barbara De Angelis

Valentine's Day is in a couple weeks...a day set aside for Love, but I believe everyday should be set aside to Love! Let's all try to love a little more each day.

Beautiful Expressions will be offering some amazing flower arrangements for Valentine's Day. We will have tulips, orchids, and roses. We believe your arrangement should be a reflection of the loved one you are giving it to.

**Exciting News**
We will have a small shop at The Promenade Shops of Briargate on February 12th, 13th, and 14th!

We will be delivering Saturday to Falcon, Peyton, Elbert, and Colorado Springs. We will not be delivering on Sunday, but will be open. If you schedule your delivery on Thursday February 11th or Friday February 12th you will receive a
Free Box of Sweet Shop Gourmet Chocolates!

Call us 494.0209 to pick out the perfect arrangement for your special someone. We offer variety, quality, and art in each design.

**Please support a local florist this holiday**

Spring Wedding Flowers

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 13:48:00 GMT

Spring is almost here and I can hardly wait. I love spring because the flowers that are available have amazing fragrances. Hyacinth and lilac are my most favorite this time of year. Unfortunately in Colorado, lilac has a very short season for us to purchase it.

Flowers that are available are sweet peas, ( love, love, love these...they are so light and romantic), tulips, daffodils, lilac, ranuculus, and hyacinth to name a few. These flowers can either give whimsy or elegance to your wedding. They offer so much-texture, color, and fragrance. The beautiful pinks, yellows, oranges, lavenders, and whites become more vivid by adding a touch of green with either viburnum or mini green hydrangea.

Spring in Colorado Springs can be so unpredictable. You'll want to plan your wedding accordingly. But one thing that is predictable in our ever-changing spring, is gorgeous flowers!

The 3/50 Project

Sun, 28 Mar 2010 19:44:00 GMT

A few months ago a friend showed me this amazing campaign. It's called The 3/50 Project. The economy has been tough on a lot of businesses, but small businesses have taken a huge hit. Thank you for all your support. We truly appreciate it!

Engagement Season

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 17:47:00 GMT

Christmas and New Years is a popular time to get engaged. Which in turn, becomes a busy time of year for me with consulations and proposals. I absolutely love meeting new brides, grooms, their moms, and their friends. Many come in with great ideas and others come to me looking for inspiration and ideas. I love both scenerios! Meeting with a florist should be done about 6 months before your wedding date. My availability is becoming limited. I have 1-2 weekends in each month from May to September booked. If you are interested in Beautiful Expressions doing your wedding flowers please call to set up your consultation.

Flowers can be an accent to your wedding or the focal point. Either way you must budget accordingly. If a bride is looking for strictly personal flowers, the percentage of the budget is between 5-7% depending on the type of flowers she is wanting. If a bride is looking for personal flowers, ceremony pieces, aisle decor, and reception pieces, the percentage is going to move up to about 12-17% of the total budget. It is really important to come to the consultation with a budget in mind so I know how to guide you in flower selection and number of pieces you are wanting. The great thing about working with a florist is that they can come up with ideas to create a beautiful ambiance, maintain the intergrity of your vision, and save you money.

Although price is a determining factor in choosing your florist, it shouldn't be your only factor. All florists are not created equal. Here are a few suggestions of things to look for in a florist:

-How have they been reviewed by other brides-do they deliver what they promised, are they reliable, creative, and did they give the bride what she wanted.?
-Are they familiar with your venue?
-Are they easy to work with, flexible, communicate well, etc.?
-Do they focus on quality and creativity?
-Most of all-Did you feel like they caught your vision.

Happy wedding planning!!

Colorado Christmas

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 18:59:00 GMT

As I sit here writing this, it's zero degrees with a -17 wind chill. This is cooler than I like for Colorado, but the snow on the ground and mountains is beautiful. Colorado offers so much variety in it's weather, which can be amazing and annoying all at once.

Christmas Season is here and I'm thankful for so much. A wonderful husband and precious daughter, all my family and wonderful friends, and my awesome customers. Please take time this year to count your blessings and bless others with love.

Thank you to all of you for a wonderful year and May God bless you richly in the coming year.

Some of my favorite things:
-Decorating a live Christmas tree with my family and listening to older Christmas music- The Carpenters, John Denver, Nat King Cole, etc. Thanks Dad!
-Watching Charlie Brown's Christmas while in my pj's, eating popcorn, and drinking hot chocolate.
-I love the smell of hot apple cider
-I love the way the lights on houses twinkle after it snows
-Driving around looking at lights and listening to Ashlynn squeal with excitement.
-Most of all I just love doing anything with my family this time of year!

Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Shove Chapel Wedding

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 20:53:00 GMT

Congratulations to Ashlee and Dave! We had the priveledge of doing the wedding flowers for this amazing couple. Ashlee had a very clear vision of what she wanted, and it was amazing when all put together. The ceremony was at Colorado College's Shove Chapel, and the red rose arrangements in mercury glass vases and aisle decor were the perfect compliments to this amazing church. The reception followed at the Fine Arts Center in Colorado Springs and the flowers didn't disappoint there either. Many blessings to you both and thank you for allowing us to be a part of your day!

Garden of the Gods Club

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 23:10:00 GMT

I had such a great time being a part of the Garden of the Gods Bridal Show last night. This Colorado Springs venue is amazing! The sunset was so pretty going down behind the Garden of the Gods.What a great event!

I was able to see familar faces, connect with people I hadn't seen in a long time, and met lots of great new vendors. So honored to have been invited. The brides were awesome and I can't wait to create some amazing wedding flowers for these girls.

Jeff + Erica Colorado Springs Fall Wedding

Sun, 25 Oct 2009 23:27:00 GMT

I've said it before, but I LOVE fall weddings and flowers!! Jeff and Erica were great to work with and I wish them a wonderful life together. They wanted their wedding flowers in browns. golds, oranges, and wine. They were really open to any flowers that would give them a fall feel. We did mokara orchids, calla lilies, roses, button poms, dahlias, and oncidium orchids. We added liquid amber to the base of the bouquets for a real autumn feel. I loved the flowers in the corsages and boutonnieres as well. They wanted something non-traditional so we did bittersweet and liquid amber wrapped in copper wire for the boutonnieres, and miniature dahlias, orchids, buttons, and billy balls for the corsages.

Erica loved pumpkins, and they were wanting to re-use flowers. I suggested they get pumpkins and hollow them out to place the bridesmaids bouquets inside for centepieces. I can't wait to see how they turned out!

Bride's Bouquet

Groom's Boutonniere

Bridesmaid Bouquets

Broadmoor Anniversary Party

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 02:51:00 GMT

We were honored to provide the flowers for a 50th Anniversary party today in Colorado Springs at The Broadmoor Hotel. What an amazing testament to all married couples! Congratulations on 50 wonderful years! Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your special day!

Colorado Fall

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 13:37:00 GMT

I woke up this morning to beautiful Colorado snow. This is the second time it's snowed here this year, but this is the first time it has stuck. Snow this early in the season is a nightmare for a florist because we have to wrap all the flowers if it is below 35 degrees so they don't freeze. The Falcon/Peyton area is extra difficult because of the wind! Hopefully it will warm up a bit so I can enjoy the fall colors just a little more. My red maple tree was really pretty with the snow on it this morning. Keep warm today!

Invitations for Colorado Springs Weddings

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 20:14:00 GMT

While on vacation in Washington D.C. I found this really adorable store called the Paper Source. Unfortunately, they do not have stores in Colorado, but they have an amazing online selection. These are unique invitations and guestbooks for your fabulous Colorado Springs Wedding. Check them out Paper Source Invitations.

A favorite, if I were having a fall wedding!

Colorado Springs Wedding Coordinator

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 21:17:00 GMT

Today I had the priviledge of meeting with one of Colorado Springs' fabulous wedding coordinators Kim Feffer. It was great to learn about how she started and what she offers her clients. I feel we have very similar philosophies on how our clients should be treated, and we both want the wedding to be an expression of the bride and their personality.

Wedding coordinators can be helpful on many levels and Kim has so much to offer her brides.

Referrals, Advice and Consulting
Rehearsal and Day of Wedding Coordination
Full Service Wedding Planning
Personal Wedding Concierge

I look forward to working with Kim in the future. If you would like to check out her portfolio, go to her website www.jittersevents.com!

This was just an amazing wedding bouquet of fall flowers that I love and wanted to share! Enjoy

Amazing Bridal Boutique

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 23:09:00 GMT

Recently my daughter was in a wedding in Colorado Springs, and her dress came from Something New Boutique. We had to have it altered and they were fabulous to work with. They offer a large selection of bridal gowns, bridesmaids dresses, mother's dresses, flower girl dresses, prom and special event gowns, and they have amazing accessories! My daughter's tiara was so pretty!! Mindi and her staff truly care about you as a client, and they have exceptional products! I would recommend any bride in Colorado Springs to visit Something New Boutique www.somethingnewboutique.com for your "Something New"

I LOVED this dress, it's by Maggie Sottero, one of the designers Something New Boutique carries. I also LOVED the flowers in their soft shades of green and lavender.

Fall Wedding Flowers

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 23:04:00 GMT

Fall is my favorite time of year and Fall Wedding Flowers are no exception. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE texture and when I get the chance to utilize all that fall has to offer I do!

Some of my fav textures...Seed Pods, Fruit-Pomegranates, oranges, etc., Hypericum Berry, Safari Sunset, and my favorite...Bittersweet Vine!

I also love the rich colors. Whether it be traditional oranges, reds, and yellows, or more contemporary fuschia, orange, red...I love them all! My most favorite flower this time of year is the orchid. There are so many to choose from and each gives a distinct design to wedding flowers-oncidium, james story, mokara, and cymbidiums!

Colorado Springs is an amazing place for a fall wedding. The mountains are more majestic, the air more crisp, the sun more intense, and the colors more vibrant! All of this equals More Fabulous Flowers!!

Friday Flower Happy Hours

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 21:25:00 GMT

Do you want to brighten up the house for the weekend or surprise someone special???

Introducing...

Friday Flower Happy Hours

Every Friday from 2:00-5:30 at the shop

1/2 Price Cash and Carry Wrapped Bouquets

Peggy's Wedding

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 13:44:00 GMT

Peggy wanted something unique and elegant, so we combined calla lilies, mokara orchids, and cymbidium orchids in the rich orange and brown tones she wanted. We added green cymbidium orchids to make the other colors pop! I absolutely loved these bouquets. Peggy and her mom wanted something to keep from the wedding so we designed 2 silk arrangements for the alter that they were able to keep for their homes. Thanks Peggy for letting us be a part of your wedding! Many Blessings.

Peggy used an awesome local photographer, John, of Majesty Photo. He does an awesome job and is so easy to work with! www.majestyphoto.com

Education-FTD, Teleflora, and 1800Flowers, etc.

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 21:01:00 GMT

For a long time I have been irritated with wire-services because they are a dis-service to the customer and the local florist.

A few reasons you should use a local florist instead of a wire-service:

        Value-there is no middle man charge. You will receive an arrangement for the money in which you paid.

        Quality/Creativity-the florist can tell you what they have in their cooler. What is the most beautiful and fresh, and make you a one-of-a-kind arrangement.

        Expertise-the local florist is a trained professional. They have vast knowledge in their product...it's not just someone taking an order. This is their passion. They want to WOW your special person!

        Guarantee-You don't have to jump through hoops when there is a concern-you call them directly and they handle it immediately.

Some may argue that wire-services are more convenient, which in some cases they are. As for my shop, I have a shopping cart available 24 hours a day on my website.

The best value for your money is alwyas going to be calling a local florist in the area you are sending flowers to. It is always best to ask where the florist is located when calling because there are imposters. Wesley Berry Florist is an example. They advertise themselves as a local florist in many cities, take the order, and then send that order to a REAL local florist. I believe this practice is unethical and deceiving. When I asked FTD and Teleflora about it, because their logos were on this florist's site, they said there was nothing they could do. Of course NOT- they get money from every order as well! Leaving the Customer and the Florist short-changed!

Thank you for supporting your local florist and Beautiful Expressions!

Kate's Wedding

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 20:13:00 GMT

Kate loved peonies...she got married in May when they were in full bloom, which makes me LOVE peonies because they are big and beautiful! Kate was so much fun to work with. She wanted a garden feel to her wedding so we added David Austin garden roses and james story orchids to her peonies and they looked amazing! Thank you Kate...I loved working with you.

Her photos were done by Allison at Stellar Propeller...Thanks for the great pics...www.stellarpropellerstudio.com

Air Force Academy Wedding

Sat, 20 Jun 2009 16:17:00 GMT

Stacy lived in California when she contacted me a year before her wedding. We did all the planning by email. She wanted her flowers to be fun and bright. She had such a clear vision and was really great to work with. Below are the pictures from her Air Force Academy wedding. Her photographer was amazing. Visit www.markjanzenphotography.com for more of his fabulous work!

Phelan-Grooms Wedding

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 02:20:00 GMT

Wow what a weekend! We worked all week and the final result was Amazing! The Bride looked absolutely fabulous and the groom didn't look so bad himself! We worked with The Club at Flying Horse and Tamara from Chair Covers and Linens, and they were absolutely fabulous to work with. Thank to everyone that made this a wonderful event.

Wo

Phelan-Grooms Wedding

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 03:54:00 GMT

We have started working on our biggest wedding of the season.This wedding is particularly special to me because it's my baby brother's. It's going to be beautiful...we have processed 500 hydrangeas, 200 calla lilies, 200 mini calla lilies, 400 grape hyacinths, 250 hyacinth, and 100 peonies. We are working on beading the pilsner vases. We will post pictures of the week's progress. I absolutely can't wait to see everything together!

New Blog and Website!

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 04:08:00 GMT

Welcome to our new blog, website & shopping cart! We are so excited...check back soon as we are still in the process of updating the new shopping cart.