Heather Zahn, the business manager for Flower Power Inc., is happy to be a part of a locally owned, family florist who thrives on helping customers – including brides and grooms – brighten special occasions.

“My favorite part of the job is meeting with a customer to hear their ideas and making those ideas come to fruition,” Zahn said. “I love to stand back and say look what we did! I love, love, love seeing a smile from a pleased customer.”

Flower Power Inc. is committed to offering the finest in floral arrangements and gifts, backed by service that is friendly and prompt. They thrive on leaving a personal touch with their customers – many of whom are brides planning their big day. It can easily get overwhelming in the midst of wedding planning making the choices necessary for floral arrangements, and Flower Power is here to help with patience and advice.

Brides often try to save money by using fake flower arrangements instead of fresh. But Zahn suggests otherwise. “I would always suggest real flowers over permanent flowers,” Zahn said. “There’s a misconception that permanent flowers are less expensive, when surprisingly, in reality, they are more expensive, with a less organic feel.”

According to Zahn, real flowers make a grander and more eloquent statement.

“Plus, what is everyone going to do with the leftover silks?” Zahn joked.

When it comes to weddings, trends tend to change frequently. Zahn is looking forward to the new summer fads for 2017. “So many great things are coming around for summer,” Zahn said. “Statement entrances, which are entrances framed with flowers and greenery, are big right now. Also, jewel tone flowers, hot pink flowers, oversized, organic and romantic bouquets, large flower crowns and lots of greenery are popular.”

Zahn’s personal favorite flower is the Esperance Rose. “It’s such a beautiful pale pink, large romantic rose!” Zahn said. “Esperance in French means hope.” These particular flowers make lovely additions to a floral arrangement for a ceremony or reception.

Brides should be careful not to let time get away from them when it comes to choosing and ordering their arrangements. “Flowers are one of the most important aspects of the wedding, so the sooner you can meet with a florist, the better,” Zahn advised.

Zahn also has some “what not to do” advice for brides. “Don't always go for the cheapest quote. Make sure you find a florist that listens to what you want, one who shares your vision and enthusiasm regarding your big day,” Zahn said.

She also advises about finances.

“Always make sure your expectations stay realistic within your budget!” Zahn cautioned. Sometimes that’s easier said than done, but at the end of the day, nothing is worth creating unnecessary financial stress. At Flower Power, they’re prepared to help brides as much as possible.

One tip to remember for choosing flowers is to save the most expensive flowers for the most important pieces – such as the bridal bouquet. Less expensive flowers can be used for the bulk of the other arrangements if needed. The proper use of foliage can also help fill out an arrangement at less cost.

One practical way Flower Power helps their customers is by using a lot of in-store props and containers that brides are welcome to use at no charge if Flower Power is doing their flowers. “This helps so much in regards to cutting down the cost for our brides!” Zahn said.

“The best thing about what we do is we can work within any budget to create a wedding as close to the bride's dream as possible,” Zahn said. “It’s all about what a bride finds most important. That’s what determines the most crucial flowers needed to make her big day her special day.”

For more information, call 698-4600 or visit Flower Power online at www.flowerpowershreveport.com and www.facebook.com/flowerpowershreveport – Betty St. Amant Photos courtesy of Legacy Photographly