For Valentine's Day - Real Men Do Like Flowers

Press Release
Source: Renaissance Mayflower Hotel

For Valentine's Day - Real Men Do Like Flowers
Tuesday February 3, 4:54 am ET

Renaissance Mayflower Hotel Floral Expert Provides Tips On Sending Flowers to Men

WASHINGTON, Feb. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- As head floral designer at the famous Renaissance Mayflower Hotel, Courtney Zellmer creates arrangements for Washington's elite. Recently, Zellmer has noticed a significant increase in the number of women sending flowers to their favorite guy.

According to Zellmer, "Today's progressive men absolutely love the gesture. There are a few things to keep in mind. We've noticed that men gravitate toward an architectural look. Keep arrangements sleek and modern with clean lines and stick to one type of flower."

Following are tips to create an arrangement especially for men:

* Mini calla lilies in shades of deep eggplant, bright yellow or mahogany provide a masculine look. Display in a clear glass vase with clean angles or in a metal container.

* Orchids are very popular with men and make an exotic presentation. Orchids are available in a variety of dark and unusual shades. Suggested varieties include "Sherry Baby Oncidium," a brilliant purple "Phalaenopsis" or "Lady Slipper" available in unusual green, chocolate and purple shades.

* Affordable orchids and accessories can be found at home and garden stores. Repot the orchid in a sleek black matte container filled with black rocks and finish with a bamboo support stick spray painted black.

* Roses are not just for women. For a masculine look, select rich, dark shades like "Black Magic" or "Hocus Pocus" in a deep crimson. Or, select roses in a rust shade and arrange in a leather container for Old World flair.

* Less committal? Select tulips. Parrot tulips have a unique shape and are available in masculine colors, including garnet, deep violet and orange. Arrange in a simple glass vase.

* For your executive, wrap a vase in a pinstripe fabric or gray wool flannel. Fabrics can be attached to a basic vase using pins or glue.

* What to avoid? Frilly flowers! No pink or pastel colors -- go bold, and avoid the typical bubble glass bowls and baskets.