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Extra Features and Video Online FloristsReview.com R E A D O N L I N E 59 I also interviewed Sarah Botchick, project and general manager at Pioneer Imports & Wholesale, an importer and wholesaler of permanent botanicals and baskets for florists, event planners, garden centers, interior designers and more in Berea (Cleveland), Ohio, who offers the following trend information, sales and marketing advice. FR: What is hot on social media? SB: Our new fall shades of Orchid Wash and Watercolor Sunset have gotten the most likes on social media. Floral designers are embracing the ombré and natural blending we work to have in our permanent flowers to make them more lifelike. Flower installations are also hugely popular on social media because they have great visual impact. Using permanent flowers in large-scale installations captures everyone's attention and has so many benefits for small and midsize shops. is is not for just New York City and Paris. First impressions have a significant impact on your bottom line. Visual merchandising intrigues consumers for Permanent Botanicals "Not all fall designs are created equal," Pickner espouses. "Some are loud and boisterous while others are soft and muted. is design, for example, is neutral enough to fit into any home or office. I started with a great container, then I arranged permanent foliage to establish the basic shape. Next, I arranged permanent flowers, followed by faux pumpkins, as focal items. Finally, I incorporated stems of muted brown and cream dried Canella winterana (wild cinnamon) berries and brown and taupe permanent Eucalyptus. "Fall - ing" by telling a story of who you are. It transforms you from a retailer to an exciting destination to pursue. FR: What is in high demand now with permanent botanicals? SB: Ruscus is the go-to foliage right now. Floral designers and customers like the symmetry of the leaves and the gracefulness. e clean lines and verdant green make flowers pop and provide the essential element of movement in a floral design. Also, lifelike blended colorings and high-quality products are now available at lower price points, making permanents appealing to more consumers and still profitable for florists. FR: What other trends are important to be aware of ? SB: We are seeing a trend in renting permanent floral designs and plants for weddings. Our customers tell us that this is a trend now more than ever, with the varieties and lifelike quality of silks that are available today. Renting permanent arrangements and plants gives clients peace of mind by knowing Floral design and photo by Patience Pickner, AIFD, CFD, PFCI, SDCF Jennifer Colby Colby Interior Designs; Dallas, Texas

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