(noun) 1. The seed-producing structure of an angiosperm; 2. a plant cultivated for its blossoms

Arrange Like an Egyptian

The earliest known practice of arranging flowers dates to ancient Egypt. Historical records show that Egyptians were decorating with flowers as early as 2500 B.C. The art of flower arranging was an important part of the culture; highly stylized arrangements were used for special occasions. Images of preserved flowers and flower parts in fine detail have been found in fossils in Sweden, Portugal, England, and along the East and Gulf coasts of the United States.

Brand Awareness

Flowers can be used in multiple ways at meetings to carry through a brand, message, idea, or thought. Color schemes in large floral arrangements can be used throughout several meeting rooms, then repeated and personalized by giving participants single flowers in programs, seating cards, or on chairs, thus weaving a theme throughout many points of a meeting.

Don't Do It!

If your meeting is being held in the second week of February, don't even consider using roses, because Valentine's Day demand drives up the price. Many imported roses come from Colombia and Ecuador, and floral lore says that at the height of shipping for Valentine's Day, 747s filled with flowers land every 10 minutes at Miami International Airport.

Highly Sensitive

To extend the life of flowers, keep them away from drafts and direct sunlight.

Be Green, Save Green

Using greenery along with flowers can cut your costs by as much as two-thirds.

Don't Call It Plastic

Consider using faux flowers. They cost less, last longer, require no maintenance, are hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, and can be reused multiple times to decorate future meetings. But avoid the word plastic. These flowers like to be called designer, faux, decorative, or a unique, high-design alternative to fresh flowers.

May I See Your Résumé?

Make sure the florist you are considering has experience and a successful track record in doing what is specifically required. Confirm terms of service so you know the vendor can deliver in the way you expect and with sufficient lead time so that anything unsatisfactory can be replaced before a meeting's start. Customer service is as important as the product being purchased.

Sources: Webster's New World College Dictionary; Susan Illman, popflowershop.com; theflowerexpert.com; flowermonthclub.com; Wikipedia