Jennifer Silveira works on a Christmas floral arrangement at her shop, The Flower Basket, on Wednesday afternoon in Lodi. (Brian Feulner/News-Sentinel)

What we can learn from Jennifer Silveira

Florist shares the secrets of floral designs

For Jennifer Silveira, making floral arrangements runs in the family. Now 25, Silveira said she watched her grandmother make them since she was eight years old. Two years ago she took over the floral business from her grandparents, and as the owner of The Flower Basket, Silveira said she enjoys working with the long-time customers her grandparents established.

What is the best thing about being a florist?

I really like doing the wedding work. I like sitting down and talking to the brides. Since I just got married five years ago, I feel I can relate to them. Also, we've had customers since my grandparents opened the shop and they still come in. I enjoy working with them.

How do you get ideas for arrangements?

We have two books that have floral arrangements in them. We can go off that. We also go to floral shows.

Are you busier during the holiday season?

Yes, Christmas, Mother's Day and Valentines Day are the busiest times of year.

What is the most popular Christmas arrangement you sell?

I would say the centerpieces with candles, and the Teleflora Thomas Kincade products.

What is your advice on how to keep arrangements fresh?

Keep them in a cool place and add water daily.

What is the longest you can expect an arrangement to last?

It depends on what it is. If it's carnations or roses it can last up to two or three weeks. Roses usually last about five days but if you take care of it, it can last two weeks. We include a care tag with it that tells how to take care of it. There's a preservative that you can add to water.

Do people buy arrangements mostly for their own homes or for gifts?

Usually for gifts, and we deliver them to family or friends.

What do you put in your gourmet baskets?

I usually do fruit, meats, cheese, crackers, chocolate and tea or coffee.

How do you learn to make arrangements?

There are design schools, but the truth is, either you've got it or you don't. I bought this place from my grandmother two years ago and I just watched. There are people who try and try and still can't get it.

What is the most elaborate arrangement you have ever made?

I would say it was for a man who came in about two months ago. For his 25th anniversary, he ordered a vase of 50 roses — 25 white and 25 red. It was just gargantuan.

What is the most unusual request you have ever received?

I've had people bring in diamond earrings or a ring and have it attached to the arrangements. Sometimes they want to set figurines in the bottom of a vase and have the flowers coming out on top of it.