WHY ARE FRESH FLOWERS USED FOR WEDDINGS

Fresh flowers have long been an integral part of wedding ceremonies across cultures and continents. The tradition of adorning wedding venues with blooms dates back centuries, and its significance has endured through time. 

While there are various reasons why people opt for fresh flowers for weddings, it’s a combination of aesthetics, symbolism, and sensory experience that makes them a cherished choice for couples tying the knot.

Aesthetics

Symbolism

Sensory Experience

Cultural and Traditional Significance

 

Aesthetics:

One of the primary reasons people choose fresh flowers for weddings is their unparalleled beauty and natural elegance. Flowers offer a wide array of colors, shapes, and fragrances, allowing couples to customize their wedding décor to match their unique style and preferences. Whether it’s delicate roses symbolizing love, vibrant tulips representing passion, or calming lavender evoking tranquility, the diverse selection of flowers enables couples to curate a visually stunning ambiance for their special day. 

The lushness and freshness of blooms add a touch of luxury and sophistication to wedding venues, creating a romantic atmosphere that captivates both the couple and their guests.

 

Symbolism:

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, fresh flowers hold profound symbolism that resonates with the essence of marriage. Different flowers carry distinct meanings and sentiments, allowing couples to infuse their wedding with symbolism that reflects their love story and aspirations for the future. 

For instance, the purity and innocence associated with white lilies may symbolize the couple’s commitment to a pure and sincere union, while red roses signify passion and enduring love. By incorporating flowers with symbolic significance into their wedding décor, couples imbue their celebration with layers of meaning, enriching the experience for themselves and their guests.

 

Sensory Experience:

Fresh flowers engage multiple senses, enhancing the overall wedding experience for everyone involved. The gentle rustle of petals, the subtle fragrance wafting through the air, and the soft touch of blooms create a multisensory environment that elevates the mood and ambiance of the occasion. 

The presence of flowers not only delights the eyes but also indulges the sense of smell, evoking nostalgia, joy, and emotional warmth. Guests are enveloped in a sensory journey that leaves a lasting impression, making the wedding a memorable and immersive experience for all.

 

Cultural and Traditional Significance:

In many cultures, fresh flowers have deep-rooted cultural and traditional significance in wedding ceremonies. From the garlands exchanged in Indian weddings symbolizing mutual respect and admiration to the floral crowns worn by brides in Greek ceremonies as symbols of love and fertility, flowers play a central role in conveying traditions and customs passed down through generations. 

By incorporating fresh flowers into their wedding celebrations, couples honor these cultural legacies and pay homage to their heritage, fostering a sense of continuity and connection with their ancestry.

 

The use of fresh flowers for weddings transcends mere decoration; it is a deliberate choice that encompasses aesthetics, symbolism, sensory experience, and cultural heritage. 

From creating a visually captivating ambiance to infusing the celebration with profound meaning, fresh flowers enrich the wedding experience, leaving an indelible impression on the couple and their guests alike.

beautiful black woman holding a bouquet of fresh flowers

10 REASON WHY YOU SHOULD SEND FLOWERS TO MOTHERS ON MOTHERS DAY

As Mother’s Day approaches, we are reminded of the incredible women who have played a pivotal role in shaping our lives – our mothers. 

It is a time to express gratitude, love, and appreciation for the selfless devotion they have shown us throughout the years.

One beautiful and time-honored tradition that speaks volumes without saying a word is the act of sending fresh flowers to mothers on Mother’s Day. While the gesture may seem simple, the impact it has is profound.

Here are some compelling reasons why sending flowers is a meaningful way to celebrate and honor the special mothers in our lives:

Expressing Love and Gratitude

Celebrating Motherhood

Symbolism of Beauty and Life

A Thoughtful Surprise

Boosting Mood and Well-being

Memorable Gestures

Tradition and Cultural Significance

Connection Across Distances

Acknowledging the Hard Work

Creating a Special Moment

 

1. Expressing Love and Gratitude

Flowers are a universal symbol of love and appreciation. Sending a beautiful bouquet of roses on Mother’s Day is a tangible way to express your deep love and gratitude for all that mothers do.

 

2. Celebrating Motherhood

Mother’s Day is a special occasion dedicated to honoring and celebrating mothers. Sending flowers is a thoughtful gesture that acknowledges the unique role and sacrifices that mothers make in raising and nurturing their children.

 

3. Symbolism of Beauty and Life

Flowers are not only visually stunning but also carry symbolic meaning. The vibrant colors and delicate petals represent the beauty of motherhood, while the blossoming process mirrors the growth and life that mothers bring into their families.

 

4. A Thoughtful Surprise

Receiving flowers is often a delightful surprise that can brighten anyone’s day. Sending flowers to your mother on Mother’s Day is a thoughtful way to show her that you are thinking of her and that you took the time to choose something special.

 

5. Boosting Mood and Well-being

Studies have shown that flowers have a positive impact on mental well-being. The vibrant colors and pleasant fragrances can uplift spirits, reduce stress, and create a more positive atmosphere, making them an ideal gift for mothers who may be facing the challenges of daily life.

 

6. Memorable Gestures

Mothers often cherish sentimental gestures. Sending flowers on Mother’s Day adds a touch of sentimentality to the occasion. The act of receiving flowers creates lasting memories and can become a cherished part of the mother’s overall experience.

 

7. Tradition and Cultural Significance

Across various cultures, flowers have been used as symbols of love, respect, and celebration. By sending flowers on Mother’s Day, you participate in a tradition that transcends generations and cultures, making the gesture even more meaningful.

 

8. Connection Across Distances

For those who may be geographically separated from their mothers, sending flowers is a way to bridge the gap and show that you are thinking of them even from afar. Many florists offer delivery services, making it convenient to send a heartfelt gift, no matter the distance.

 

9. Acknowledging the Hard Work

Motherhood often involves hard work, selflessness, and dedication. Sending flowers on Mother’s Day is a way to acknowledge and appreciate the efforts mothers put into their families and the positive impact they have on the lives of their children.

 

10. Creating a Special Moment

Flowers have the ability to create a sense of occasion. By sending a carefully chosen bouquet, you contribute to creating a special moment for your mother on Mother’s Day, making her feel cherished and loved.

 

Sending flowers on Mother’s Day is a thoughtful and meaningful gesture that allows you to express love, appreciation, and admiration for the important women in your life. 

It is a tradition that transcends time and cultures, symbolizing the beauty and significance of motherhood.

THE UNCOMMON LANGUAGES OF FRESH FLOWERS

The language of flowers, also known as floriography, is a fascinating and historical means of communication that involves assigning symbolic meanings to various types of flowers and arrangements. This intricate form of expression has been utilized for centuries across different cultures to convey sentiments, emotions, and messages without the need for spoken or written words. 

The practice gained popularity during the Victorian era in the 19th century when verbal expression of emotions was often constrained, and people sought alternative ways to convey their feelings.

Each flower, color, and arrangement holds a specific meaning in the language of flowers, enabling individuals to express a wide range of emotions, from love and admiration to grief and sympathy. 

The symbolic language of flowers is not only limited to individual blooms but extends to the combination of different flowers in a bouquet, the arrangement style, and even the presence or absence of certain elements like leaves or thorns.

Some common examples of flower meanings include:

  1. Roses:
  2. Lilies:
  3. Tulips:
  4. Daisies:
  5. Orchids:
  6. Sunflowers:
  7. Daffodils:
  8. Chrysanthemums:

 

1. Roses: The Timeless Messengers of Love

 

    Red Roses:

 Unsurprisingly, red roses symbolize love and passion. They are the universal emblem of romantic love and deep affection.

 

   White Roses:

 In contrast, white roses signify purity, innocence, and new beginnings. They’re often associated with weddings and new starts.

 

   Yellow Roses: 

Representing friendship and joy, yellow roses convey feelings of happiness and appreciation.

 

   Pink Roses:

 Delicate and charming, pink roses express admiration, gratitude, and grace.

 

2. Lilies: Elegant Symbols of Virtue

 

   White Lilies: 

Known for their purity and virtue, white lilies are often associated with funerals and represent the restored innocence of the departed soul.

 

   Easter Lilies: 

Symbolizing resurrection and renewal, Easter lilies are commonly linked to the Christian celebration of Easter.

 

   Calla Lilies: 

With their elegant shape, calla lilies symbolize magnificence and beauty.

 

3. Tulips: Expressing Love and Elegance

 

    Red Tulips: 

Similar to red roses, red tulips convey deep love and passion.

 

   Yellow Tulips: 

Symbolizing cheerful thoughts and sunshine, yellow tulips are often associated with happiness.

 

   Purple Tulips: 

Representing royalty and elegance, purple tulips are a gesture of admiration.

 

4. Daisies: Innocence and Purity

 

 White Daisies: 

Standing for innocence and purity, white daisies are often seen in bridal bouquets.

 

   Gerbera Daisies:

 Vibrant and cheerful, gerbera daisies symbolize happiness and joy.

 

5. Orchids: Symbols of Rare Beauty and Love

 

  Pink Orchids: 

Expressing affection and deep admiration, pink orchids are often given as a gesture of love.

 

  White Orchids: 

Representing purity and elegance, white orchids are often associated with weddings.

 

6. Sunflowers: Symbol of Adoration and Loyalty

 

  Sunflowers symbolize adoration, loyalty, and longevity. Their bright and sunny appearance reflects positivity and warmth.

 

7. Daffodils: Signs of New Beginnings

 

    Daffodils represent rebirth and new beginnings, making them perfect gifts for someone starting a new chapter in life.

 

8. Chrysanthemums: Honoring Life and Death

 

   Chrysanthemums are often associated with honoring the dead in various cultures. They symbolize death and rebirth and are frequently used in funeral arrangements.

 

Understanding the language of flowers adds depth and sentiment to the act of giving and receiving blooms. It allows individuals to express themselves in a subtle and elegant manner, transcending the limitations of spoken language. 

Whether used to convey affection, celebrate an occasion, or express sympathy, the language of flowers continues to be a timeless and meaningful form of communication.

christmas in lagos

MY LAST CHRISTMAS IN NIGERIA

As the year drew to a close, I found myself reminiscing about the warmth, joy, and cultural richness of my last Christmas spent in Nigeria. 

The vibrant festivities, unique traditions, and the sense of community made it an unforgettable holiday season. 

Join me on a journey through the heart of Nigeria as I share the highlights of my Christmas experience in this enchanting country.

 

  1. Colorful Decorations and Festive Atmosphere
  2. Cultural Celebrations and Traditions
  3. Family and Community Bonding
  4. Mouthwatering Cuisine
  5. Church Services and Spiritual Reflection

 

1. Colorful Decorations and Festive Atmosphere

Nigeria truly comes alive during Christmas, and the streets are adorned with colorful lights, ornaments, and decorations. From bustling marketplaces to quiet neighborhoods, the festive atmosphere is contagious. 

 

The air is filled with the sounds of laughter, carolers singing traditional songs, and the enticing aroma of local delicacies wafting through the air.

 

2. Cultural Celebrations and Traditions

Christmas in Nigeria is a celebration of diverse cultures and traditions. Each ethnic group brings its unique flavor to the festivities. 

 

From the Igbo masquerade dances to the Yoruba drumming and the Hausa Durbar festival, the country is a melting pot of cultural expressions. Witnessing these traditions firsthand added a special touch to my Christmas experience.

 

3. Family and Community Bonding

One of the most heartwarming aspects of Christmas in Nigeria is the emphasis on family and community. The holiday season is a time for reunions, and families come together to share love, laughter, delicious meals and gifts like fresh flower arrangements. Chocolates, Christmas scented candles and wine

Communities organize events, ranging from talent shows to charity drives, fostering a sense of togetherness that goes beyond immediate family ties.

 

4. Mouthwatering Cuisine

No Nigerian Christmas is complete without indulging in the delectable array of different dishes. From white rice and chicken stew to jollof rice and  fried rice, pepper soup, and a variety of local delicacies, the Christmas feast is a culinary delight. 

 

I fondly recall the flavors that danced on my taste buds, each dish reflecting the rich culinary heritage of Nigeria.

 

5. Church Services and Spiritual Reflection

For many Nigerians, Christmas holds deep religious significance. Attending church services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day is a common tradition. 

The air resonates with soul-stirring hymns, prayers, and reflections on the true meaning of Christmas. 

 

The spiritual aspect adds a profound layer to the celebrations, reminding everyone of the reason for the season.

 

My last Christmas in Nigeria was a display of colors, cultures, and heartfelt moments. The warmth of the people, the rich tapestry of traditions, and the vibrant celebrations left an indelible mark on my memories. This is part of reasons why we celebrate Christmas

 As I reflect on that magical time, I carry with me the spirit of unity, love, and joy that defines Christmas in Nigeria—a celebration that transcends borders and brings people together in the true spirit of the season.

peace lily zoomed in

9 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Caring for Your Peace Lily

For those new to the world of indoor plants, the captivating peace lily might have caught your attention. These plants not only boast stunning aesthetics but also excel at cleansing the air, making them a popular choice for infusing your living space with a touch of nature.

 

However, like any new endeavor, tending to a peace lily comes with a learning curve. But fret not! We’re here to guide you through it.

 

Imagine having a friend that is both elegant and beneficial. That’s your peace lily! Its lush green foliage and delicate white blossoms can infuse tranquility into your home. Nevertheless, it’s essential to note that peace lilies are somewhat sensitive, similar to a pet that demands your care and attention. To ensure your new leafy companion thrives and remains content, let’s discuss nine common mistakes often made when caring for peace lilies.

 

Even if you’re a complete novice with no prior plant care experience, don’t be disheartened. We’ll break down each mistake and provide straightforward solutions. By the end of this guide, you’ll not only know how to avoid these pitfalls but also feel more confident in your ability to provide the affection your peace lily deserves.

 

So, let’s learn how to create the ideal environment for your peace lily to flourish. Whether you reside in a compact apartment or a spacious house, these tips will assist you in crafting a serene oasis that both you and your plant will cherish.

 

 

 

1. Overwatering

Mistake: One of the most common errors is overwatering. Peace lilies are sensitive to waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot and ultimately harm the plant’s well-being.

 

Solution:  Allow the top inch of the soil to dry before watering. Insert your finger into the soil – if it feels dry, it’s time to water. Ensure proper drainage and utilize a well-draining potting mix.

 

2. Inadequate Drainage

Mistake:  Using pots without adequate drainage can trap excess water, promoting root rot and stressing the plant.

 

Solution:  Always opt for pots with drainage holes to allow water to escape. Elevate the pot slightly using pot feet or a tray to prevent waterlogging.

 

3. Incorrect Lighting

Mistake:  Peace lilies thrive in bright, indirect light. Exposure to direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, while insufficient light can hinder growth and flowering.

 

Solution: Position your peace lily near a window with filtered light or a few feet away from a well-lit window. Avoid placing them in intense, direct sunlight.

 

4. Neglecting Humidity

Mistake: Peace lilies flourish in high humidity environments. Low humidity can lead to brown leaf edges and stunted growth.

 

Solution:  Increase humidity by misting the plant regularly, placing a tray of water nearby, or using a room humidifier.

 

5. Ignoring Dust on Leaves

Mistake:  Dust buildup on peace lily leaves can block sunlight and impede photosynthesis.

 

Solution: Gently wipe the leaves with a damp cloth or give the plant a shower to clean its leaves. This will enhance its overall health and appearance.

 

6. Overcrowding

Mistake: Allowing peace lilies to become crowded can limit air circulation and lead to pest infestations.

 

Solution: Repot your peace lily regularly into a slightly larger container to provide adequate space for growth. This also allows you to refresh the soil.

 

7. Using the Wrong Fertilizer

Mistake: Using a fertilizer high in nitrogen can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowering.

 

Solution: Opt for a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with a higher middle number (phosphorus) to encourage blooming. Feed every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

 

8. Sudden Temperature Changes

Mistake: Peace lilies are sensitive to drastic temperature fluctuations, which can result in leaf yellowing and stress.

 

Solution:  Maintain a stable environment for your peace lily, avoiding drafts, cold air, and sudden temperature shifts.

 

9. Neglecting Brown Tips

Mistake: Brown tips on peace lily leaves can signal underwatering, over-fertilizing, or excess salts in the soil.

 

Solution: Trim the brown tips with clean, sharp scissors. Adjust your watering and fertilizing routine to prevent further browning.

 

Caring for a peace lily can be a rewarding experience when you avoid these common mistakes. By providing the right amount of water, proper lighting, and a suitable environment, your peace lily will thrive and bring its soothing beauty to your home or office. Remember to observe your plant closely and make adjustments as needed to ensure its continued health and vitality. For additional information on caring for indoor plants, you can also explore general indoor plant care tips.

peacelily in kitchen

6 benefits of having peace lily in your home

Plants are generally beneficial to humans and their environments. They serve not only to beautify our homes and surroundings but also act as a means of enhancing proper ventilation and promoting overall well-being. It is advisable to incorporate plants into our homes and offices to improve our health and stimulate creativity. Among the various indoor plants cherished by plant enthusiasts, the “Peace Lily” stands out as an exceptional choice for your home.

The Peace Lily is renowned for its air-purifying qualities, with the ability to infuse harmony and serenity into any space. It is believed to attract prosperity and positive energy, earning it the nickname “prosperity lily.” This plant is among the select few known to bring good fortune and harmony to both homes and offices.

The Peace Lily boasts incredible benefits that can be enjoyed when cultivated in your home. Its presence not only adds charm to your living space but also contributes to your mental and physical well-being.

 

Here are six (6) benefits of having a Peace Lily in your home

 

1.Air Purification

One of the key advantages of having a Peace Lily in your home is its ability to purify the air by removing various pollutants that pose threats to our health. Indoor air can be equally as toxic as outdoor air, but you can mitigate this by eliminating sources of pollutants and enhancing ventilation through indoor plants like the Peace Lily.

 

2.Stress Reduction

Another benefit of indoor plants like the Peace Lily is their capacity to relax the body and reduce stress levels. They promote a sense of calm and tranquility, enhancing productivity, making them a valuable addition not only to your home but also to your workplace. Studies have shown that having plants in our homes or workplaces increases productivity and promotes a sense of ease and natural well-being.

 

3.Low-Maintenance Plant

Cultivating a Peace Lily doesn’t have to be a costly endeavor. It thrives in medium to low light conditions, making it one of the most practical indoor plants available today.

4.Enhancement of Home Aesthetics

 It’s no surprise that the Peace Lily is a popular choice among indoor plants due to its stunning and unique appearance. It has a remarkable ability to enhance the interior of your home, adding a touch of dazzle.

 

5.Ideal for Bedrooms

The Peace Lily is an excellent choice for bedroom plants. It promotes quality sleep by improving air quality and humidity levels while also absorbing airborne mold spores. Overall, this remarkable plant fosters a sense of calm, reducing stress-related thoughts and promoting restful sleep.

 

6.Versatile Gift

Peace Lilies make versatile gifts that can bring smiles to family, friends, and coworkers, depending on the occasion. They hold various symbolic meanings, making them a thoughtful choice for gifting.

 

In conclusion, the Peace Lily is an exceptional plant that should find a place in both your home and workplace.

 

bamboo stick picture

7 BENEFITS OF HAVING LUCKY BAMBOO IN YOUR HOME

Lucky bamboo as the name implies is that plant you’d want to have around you, most especially in your home.

With its long green stalks and bamboo-like leaves, it’s easy to see where the Lucky Bamboo plant gets its name from. But don’t let that fool you – it’s not actually bamboo. 

 

The Lucky Bamboo plant is also known as Dracaena sanderiana, a perennial shrub native to Central Africa. It’s beautiful, easy to grow, and complete with a long list of interesting features and benefits.

 

In this post we would be highlighting 7 benefits of having lucky bamboo in your home 

 

1. Believed to bring good-luck and prosperity 

 

The Lucky Bamboo indoor plant plays a very important role in Feng Shui. An ancient Chinese practice for finding synergy and harmony in our home environment, Feng Shui is now practiced all around the world.

 

The Lucky Bamboo plant has become a very popular staple in many homes inspired by Feng Shui practices. Believed to bring good luck and cleansing energy into your home, the Lucky Bamboo plant has been used for thousands of years to create positive energy and fortune. 

 

2. Easy to grow 

 

Compared to many other indoor plants, the Lucky Bamboo plant is very easy and quick to grow. It can be planted in soil, of course, but it can even be easier than that. The Lucky Bamboo plant grows great when in a vase of water with some pebbles down the bottom. Just ensure you change the water frequently for maximum freshness.

 

The Lucky Bamboo indoor plant is a very fast-growing indoor plant. Simply place it in a bright place with a nice warm temperature and let it flourish. However, when thinking about the ideal positioning for your Lucky Bamboo plant, try to imagine your home like a rainforest. Lucky Bamboo plants don’t like direct sunlight, and instead prefer gentle, filtered light – much like that which would be found through a rainforest canopy.

 

3. Cleans the air in your room

 

One great perk of having a Lucky Bamboo plant as a bamboo plant for home use is its air-purifying powers. Just like other indoor plants, the Lucky Bamboo plant is believed to help cleanse the air in your home, thus making for a happier and healthier place to live in.

 

Growing plants in your home is one way to ensure the air quality in your home environment is boosted – all thanks to an increase in oxygen. In fact, some people believe that plants like the Lucky Bamboo plant can reduce harmful chemicals and toxins that are in the air in your home. That means it’s a win for your lungs and a win for the environment.

 

4. Requires minimal maintenance 

 

Have you ever formed an attachment to a houseplant, only to one day discover you’ve let it go neglected? We sure have, and we know how defeating it can feel as a home grower. That’s why the Lucky Bamboo indoor plant is such a great beginner plant – it requires very little care to stay healthy and strong.

 

While many plants require extensive trimming and care to stay healthy, the Lucky Bamboo plant only needs a bit of pruning here and there. This is just to prevent the plant from becoming top-heavy, or to keep it within a size that suits its container. Simply cut the offshoots of your Lucky Bamboo plant with scissors whenever you deem it necessary. Then, sit back and relax with a plant that largely takes care of itself.

 

5. Helps maintain balance

 

The lucky bamboo plant helps balance the five elements of nature namely earth, wind, fire, water and wood. Bamboo symbolizes wood out of the five elements of nature. 

You can keep the bamboo plant at home in water, tied with a red ribbon. Also, add a few coins and pebbles in the container. It will help achieve the balance of all the elements and bring harmony.

 

6. Symbol of good health

 

The lucky bamboo plant attracts good health for the entire family when placed in the east direction. The lucky bamboo plant attracts good health for the entire family when placed in the east direction. 

 

Bamboo plants also ensure good health. Bamboo tree for home to get this benefit, as per Vastu. Arrange five bamboo stalks in a container. You can also grow seven bamboo stalks, which represents good health.

 

While a lucky bamboo plant benefits you in many ways, it is essential to give the plant adequate care. The right placement of the lucky bamboo and regular maintenance will ensure that the plant brings good luck.   

 

7. Enhances home decor and aesthetic value

 

Bamboo trees for home can be used for decorative purposes, including furniture. Long stems of bamboo trees are also used for construction of houses, roofs, flooring, fences, pillars, bridges, etc. The stems of this plant give an appealing look to the décor of any style of home.

 

In short, the Lucky Bamboo plant is an ideal indoor plant for home growers for many reasons. If you’ve been searching for a new addition to your house, or a plant to kickstart your plant parent journey, the Lucky Bamboo plant is a great pick.

 

As we’ve seen, the Lucky Bamboo plant is a very easy to grow and low-maintenance plant. All it needs is some water, some filtered light and occasional care to truly flourish. We recommend pairing it with a classy vase for the ultimate stylish touch. Once you’ve got it set up in a happy environment, sit back and allow this plant to brighten up your space.

Not only is the Lucky Bamboo plant an easy one to take care of, but it has been used for thousands of years to bring luck, fortune, and prosperity into people’s homes.

 Now, it’s your turn to carry on this tradition. Simply order yourself a Lucky Bamboo Plant and enjoy all the benefits of this unique and beautiful grower.

black son with mother standing outside happily

WHAT MY MUM TOLD ME AFTER RECEIVING FLOWERS FOR THE FIRST TIME…… EPISODE 2

TAI 26, LAGOS

I bought flowers for my mom for the first time during my final year exams as a way to show my appreciation for everything she has done for me and my twin brother.

 

I come from a polygamous home; my dad had five wives and countless children. Some of them I didn’t even know until his funeral, when we all came together to lay him to rest. My dad was a kind man; he took care of all of us to the best of his abilities and always ensured peace among his wives and children.

 

One thing I dearly miss from my childhood in Ibadan is listening to my dad’s stories every evening after dinner. My dad always had captivating tales to tell, particularly about the animal kingdom. All of us, his children, and even the neighborhood kids, would gather around my dad as he sat on mats, sometimes with our mothers joining in too.

 

I recall how tranquil and serene our compound used to be, illuminated by the moonlight, with a gentle evening breeze caressing our skin and the faint chirping of crickets outside our enclosure. I miss those times, gazing at the moon and stars, admiring their beauty and brilliance in the night sky.

 

After my father’s passing, my mom relocated us from Ibadan to Lagos to ensure we received a proper education and a better life than what we were accustomed to. It was a challenging journey for her. She sold bottled water and soft drinks during the day and cooked fries at night, all to ensure we could eat and go to school, even on her weakest days.

 

The day following my final exam, my thoughts dwelled on my incredible mother, and I wanted to find a way to truly express my gratitude for the hardships and sacrifices she endured to provide for us.

 

After much contemplation, I settled on giving her flowers. I know what you might be thinking—flowers for an African mother, who might prefer fabrics or edible items. But I wanted to offer something unexpected, something she wouldn’t have considered.

 

So, I procured the flowers and hastened to her shop, elated at the prospect of seeing her delighted by the beautiful yellow roses I had chosen for her.

 

Upon my arrival at her shop, she was tending to a customer, so I went to her office and patiently waited. Over time, circumstances improved for us, and my mom opened a sizable convenience store in Ikoyi. Eventually, when she finished, she came to her office, embraced me tightly as if we hadn’t seen each other for years, and offered her congratulations.

 

Then, I disclosed that I had a gift for her. Initially smiling, she transitioned to a more serious expression and said in Yoruba, “Kosi owo” (I don’t have money), explaining that she had just paid the rent. I remained silent and fetched the flowers, presenting them to her.

 

As she smiled and examined the blooms, she remarked, “Aren’t these the same ones we see on TV and with those famous people?” I confirmed and added that they were fresh flowers. She continued to study them and humorously said in the local dialect, “Wetin you want this time, this one na bribery o, i no get money” (What do you want this time, this seems like bribery, I don’t have money). I assured her that I wasn’t seeking anything in return; I simply wished to convey my gratitude for everything she had done for me and my brother.

 

With her arms wide open, she rose from her chair, a broad smile on her face. She embraced and kissed me on the cheek and offered her prayers. Then she requested that I take pictures of her with the flowers, expressing her desire for her friends to see.

 

 

This is Adekunle Taiye

A Business Expert

August 19th 2023

 

black couples on a semi nude data with flowers

5 Creative ways to say “I love you” on Valentine’s Day

 

Valentine’s Day is a special day for couples all around the world to express their love and affection for each other, with many couples sending each other gifts such as flowers, chocolates, teddies and so on. 

While it’s easy to simply say “I love you,” and attach to the flowers wine, cakes and perfume. Sometimes it’s more meaningful to get creative with how you express your feelings. 

Here are a few creative ways to say “I love you” on Valentine’s Day:

 

Write a love letter

Writing a love letter and sending it together with fresh flowers and other gifts is a timeless and romantic way to express your feelings.

Take some time to sit down and think about all the things you love about your partner. Write them down in a letter and deliver it to them on Valentine’s Day with flowers. 

You can even go the extra mile and write the letter on a beautiful piece of stationary or add a special touch with a handwritten envelope.

Make a scrapbook

A scrapbook is a fun and creative way to document your love story. Gather pictures, mementos, and other keepsakes from your relationship and use them to create a visually stunning scrapbook. 

You can include notes and captions to add a personal touch. This is a thoughtful and sentimental gift that your partner will cherish for years to come.

Cook a special meal

If you and your partner enjoy cooking and trying new recipes, consider creating a special meal for Valentine’s Day. Choose a dish that has special meaning to both of you, or try something new and adventurous. 

You can even set the table with candles, flowers, and other romantic touches to make the experience extra special.

Go on a surprise date

Planning a surprise date is a fun and exciting way to show your partner how much you care. Think about your partner’s interests and plan a date around something they would enjoy. 

It could be anything from a concert or sports game to a quiet dinner at a cozy restaurant. The element of surprise will make the experience all the more memorable.

Make a playlist

Music has the power to evoke strong emotions and bring back memories. Create a playlist of songs that have special meaning to both of you and share it with your partner on Valentine’s Day. You can include songs from your first dance at your wedding, songs that remind you of special moments in your relationship, or simply songs that you both love.

 

No matter how you choose to express your love on Valentine’s Day, the most important thing is to be sincere and heartfelt. Your partner will appreciate the effort you put into making the day special, no matter how big or small the gesture.

So go ahead and get creative, your love is worth it.

black woman holding orange grbral

WHAT MY MUM TOLD ME AFTER RECEIVING FLOWERS FOR THE FIRST TIME. EPISODE 1

CHICHI 36, LAGOS

My mother and I are more like friends, we talk about food, life, relationships, fashion, parties, things that concern us and even those that don’t, and she advises me about everything. 

Our bond was so strong that it upset my 3 elder brothers so much.

 

After the NYSC program, I got so depressed. I got dumped by my boyfriend. I went for job interviews but they never got back to me. My close friends were all getting married and moving abroad, my businesses got very slow to the point of me quitting. It was as if I was caused and my life was on hold.

 

Eventually, I got a job but the manager wanted to have sex with me first and he gave me 24 hours to think about it. I was confused on what to do then I told my mum about it and she told me not to do it.

I started doing a lot of thinking. At my age I have nothing and still depend on my poor parents for survival. All of these led me to agree to his demands because I was desperate for a job by all means possible. 

 

Well, few weeks into the job, he started asking for more sex, which i definitely declined, then he started making life difficult for me by adding more task to my job description, making sure i work on weekends, close late and resume as early as 7am, penalize me for minor  mistakes that was made either by  me or the team. I attempted to take my life twice.

I just couldn’t continue so I attempted to quit.

 

It was on a friday afternoon, after so many meetings, long hours of standing and moving from one office to another and thousands of monetary penalties received for 15,000 wey dem dey pay me (for salary of 15,000 that i’m been paid), i just told myself this is not the life i chose for myself with my first class result and 4 long suffering years at unilag.

 

I walked into his office to submit my resignation letter, then he asked me to sit which i did, and he asked why i wanted to quit. I explained everything to him as it was, leaving nothing out of my frustrations. 

 

After listening to my pains he saw how desperate I was. He said he was going to make me happy, reduce my stress at work and even promote me with an increment of my salary by 5 times my current salary if only I agreed to be his side chick. Also he told me to take the weekend off to think about it. 

He also gave me N30,000 in cash which was my 2 month salary so I could take myself out to help me think well. I collected the money and went home, please don’t judge me (smiles).

 

I got home after the long traffic on the 3rd mainland bridge and saw my mum preparing for a night vigil at our church. We were supposed to go together, so she was waiting for me.

When I walked in, she saw the sadness and asked me to go to my room with my big black nylon and take my bath and she would bring me some food. 

 

While I was eating my food, my mum asked me to tell her why I’m sad and to be truthful. I told her everything, from when I agreed to sleep with him to how he kept asking for more and makes my life miserable to his new offer and the cash. She asked for his information with my office address. I gave them to her and she asked me to give her the 30k he gave me .

Hmm, the money was remaining 16,000 which I gave to her. 

 

I told my mum that I was scared to carry such an amount of money around because of pickpockets, one chance, area boys and the likes and she said I did well, but actually, I used the 14,000 to get myself new clothes and shoes.

 

Because while I was on the bus thinking about my life, I saw some beautiful, nice and sexy dresses around Oshodi market. So I came down to get them and I also added some shoes because it’s not everyday I get to collect such an amount of money as a gift plus all my clothes are either undersized or washed off.

My mum asked me to stay at home and pray instead of going for the night vigil with her because I was so stressed. So she went for the vigil and I prayed at home for God to intervene.

 

The following day was a saturday and i was in bed watching the series boys before flowers. And praying my husband should be like the main actor and crushing on the main actor while sipping hot chocolate, enjoying my long deserving break.

 

Then there after, I got a call from a colleague that my mum is at our office making a scene with the manager. I jumped out of bed immediately to put something on and make my way to the office. I even had to pay for all the seats in the bus because no one was going my direction at that time and I would have to wait for the bus to get full before the driver would move. 

 

Getting to the office I saw my mum grabbing the manager’s shirt and calling him all kinds of names at the front desk, saying everything that he has done to me except the sex part and she wasn’t listening to people around trying to calm her down so the money he gave me scattered on the floor. And it was the complete 30k, my mum added her 14k to complete it.

 

Then I quickly rushed to her and managed to calm her down. We were about to leave when the director of the company walked into the building unannounced and asked why the office was in a mess. My mum used that opportunity to tell the director  everything again even when we tried to stop her. The director asked the 3 of us, me, my mum and the manager to come to his office.

 

In his office, my mum explained everything to the director and how it’s affecting my life. The manager tried to deny it and said I was the one forcing myself on him to get favors. The director also asked me to speak, which I did and also left nothing untouched and how I’m supposed to be earning more with my qualifications. 

 

The director asks us to go home and come back on Wednesday, so they can go through everything and do their findings to get to the root of the matter.

 

I became more scared of losing my job because I’m a desperate young lady that just started working with them for 3 months and there is the manager who has been working for them for many years, who they will definitely trust. So who will believe me over him without proof. And He was even crying in the director’s office, saying that I wanted to spoil his career and how it will affect his wife with his 6 children who are still in school if I succeeded. My mum and I prayed about it for God to be the judge.

 

On Wednesday, my mum and I prayed about it again before I left for work. In my mind I was just saying how I will not miss waking up early every morning to fight for the bus and go stress myself out at work for 15,000 monthly.

I got to the office to resume my duty, Then the manager came to my desk and said he will make sure that I am fired and never get another job in Nigeria, that I don’t know how powerful he is.

 

Me, I responded back o, me that was even ready to collect the sack letter sef. 

I said to him “with all the power you mentioned, this is where it landed you abi, in a company with  us that pays it workers peanuts as salary. Waste of power I must say my dear sir, focus more on yourself with that power, it will do you more good”.

He got really angry and said “shebi you get mouth now, i will show you

 

Our director called us both to his office and asked us to sit. We both sat down and he said that he had gone through the whole situation with the board members and they also had a look at my documents again and came to a conclusion.

 

He handed me a letter and said to me standing up and looking at me also pushing his hands towards me for a hand shake “Congratulation Chichi, you are now our new manager with the salary of N100,000”  

I was in shock and didn’t know what to say, so was the manager then he asked what about him and why I was taking his job. 

 

The director responded that the manager was an evil man for taking advantage of my situation and how desperate I was for a job and they found out about all his corruption and how he has been cheating the company for not being trustworthy with anything relating to money and that they will make sure that he is locked up in jail.

 

The director then looked at me, i was still in shock with all that was happening, then he said to me “Chichi, your first job as the new manager is to sack the old manager”  and handed me the latter, i looked at the manager who was already on his knees begging and asking the director to consider his wife and children.

 

I don’t know where i got the strength from, i stood up with all that energy and enthusiasm i had in me and said to the manager “Mr Kayode williams, your services are no longer needed in this establishment, you are hereby fired with immediate effect. Drop your office id card at the reception on your way out. And you will be hearing from our lawyers soon. You have 30 minutes to leave this building” I thanked the director and left the office while the manager was still begging and crying. 

 

When the manager was dropping his id card at the front desk, I walked to him and told him to follow my advice and use his power to get a new job and also get a good lawyer to represent him or he will spend the rest of his life in jail, he didn’t say a word and walked away.

 

I was very happy as I got to my new office and briefed on my new duties. I started thanking God and praising Him for this, and prayed for my mum. I began to think of a way to thank my mum for helping me voice out my pains and frustration.

 

Went online and saw that fresh flowers along with other gifts were perfect for this occasion.

I closed early, emptied my account, went to the market and bought wrappers and a gown for my mum and also shoes. Then I booked a box of red and yellow roses with chocolate and cake.

 

When I got home, my mum was not at home, which was so perfect. Brought everything out from the uber I took home and arranged them nicely on the table while I waited for her to come home.

 

When she came in, she asked me who got me all these beautiful things. I told her that they were all for her and that I got promoted at work with a very good salary attached to it. I got them to say thank you for everything she has done. She said if I was joking I should stop because she was tired. When she saw that I was serious, she started dancing and singing in our local language and thanking God, going through the gifts one after the other, admiring them.

 

When she got to the flowers, she said “na live flowers be this abi, this no look like rubber flower”(are these fresh flowers?, they don’t look like artificials)  and i said yes, she then replied

 

 “no wonder he is fine like this, beautiful. I will snap with it and send it to my husband to make him jealous small. Thank you my daughter, God bless you and your new job will bring you happiness as you have made me happy

 

She called her sisters to show them what I got for her and also the flowers and she made sure they knew it was fresh flowers by shouting that they are fresh flowers.

 

After her many phone calls, she called me and asked how much I got the flowers because they looked expensive according to one of her sisters,  but i didn’t tell her the price and I told her that it was not nice asking the price of a gift received from someone. 

 

She said I should stop spending my money lavishly and save more so that it will help  me in the future. I asked her to give me back the gifts so I can return them and save the money, but she said no, that she deserves expensive gifts too and we laughed about it and went to the kitchen to make dinner.

 

Everyday, I remember how happy she was about the flowers and I do get her flowers on her birthdays and mother’s day every year. 

 

 

This is Chichi Nwankwo’s story

MD of one of Nigerians leading oil company

August 12th 2023

Here is episode 1, you can also read our previous post on guys receiving flowers as valentine’s Day gift for the first day