slmnyc's Profile

I work at Gotham Gardens, the truly fabulous flower & plant shop on the West Side. I've seen both sides of the Valentine dilemna -- the giver who is afraid to give anything but a dozen red roses and the recipient who doesn't want to appear ungrateful but would much prefer something more, well, imaginative. There have been women in the shop who stare wistfully at the gorgeous ranunculus, hellebores, cymbidiums, lady slippers, gloriosa lilies, frittilaria, anemones, amaryllis, French lilac, muscari, quince and tulips, not to mention the unusual botanical elements we use in bouquets, then sadly say they'll be getting the usual red roses. Givers, unless you know for sure she really loves red roses, be daring. Be romantic. Recipients, don't be afraid to drop the names of flowers you really love. If you're fully committed to your Valentine, consider giving them a beautiful vase, perhaps a wonderful bud vase, then, every week or two, treat them to one or two splendid blooms.