Getting a Pro to Make the Holiday Centerpiece
A marvelous life-sized Santa greets you at the doorway of Kenny’s Flowers in Lexington Park. And behind him, several “elves” are lined up at work tables, efficiently snipping boxwood stems and inserting them into floral foam to make 16-inch Christmas tree centerpieces. The trees, which also will be adorned with white snowflake mums, red ribbons and ornaments, are some of the shop’s best sellers.
In the back, owner Julie Pitt wipes her brow as she simultaneously works on large-leafed bouquets and answers the constantly ringing telephone. Kenny’s which began with Pitt’s father, Kenny Wathen, in 1964, is always busy, but this time of year everything gets ramped up. As one of the elf staffers said, “by Christmas Eve even our toes are curled up!”
“This is a wonderful time to send arrangements as gifts or to order one for your table,” says Ms. Pitt, “because they smell as good as they look. They are a hardy greenery, whether it is pine, flat cedar, boxwood, or yew, and can last more than two weeks if cared for properly.”
Pitt suggests watering or misting them often and keeping them in a cool spot. If the centerpiece is in a glass vase, she recommends re-cutting them every day in water so air never touches the stem. Do the legends of using soda or aspirin help? Possibly, says Ms. Pitt, but she uses the floral food.
A few other suggestions: The Internet flower sites are useful, but she asks that you call the shop directly (877-274-2391). “We know what we have on hand and what we can make for you. Also, calling early is of course better, but if you are having second thoughts about a gift at the last minute, don’t assume it is too late. “Please call and we will try to help.”
