Coriander Girl

Coriander Bits 15!

2012-02-18T19:35:00.000-08:00

As usual, what was supposed to be about the new shop quickly became all about Harry. He's just so darn cute I couldn't resist.
Alison xo

Introducing the new and improved Coriander Girl!

2012-02-16T10:24:00.000-08:00

We officially opened the doors to our new location at 1604 Queen St. West. The shop is bigger and better than ever baby!
Have a look and then I'll take you back through the process over the next week and give some much deserved kudos to everyone who helped make it happen. And tomorrow we'll be announcing the winner of Pure Green Magazine! Yippee! Much love and thanks to those who were able to come and celebrate the opening this past Sunday. What a time!
Truly a monumental moment for me.
Alison xo

Coriander Girl grand opening extravaganza!

2012-02-09T11:39:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!
So, I've left you with dancing European men for the last couple of weeks, could have been worse! We've been so busy preparing the new space for the grand opening this Sunday Feb.12th!! I've not had the time to blog but goodness me, I owe you some answers! Are you coming?! I sure hope so! We'll have great treats from Elm Hill Cookies, The Sassy Lamb, Yummy Stuff bakery, Tealish and if you place your Valentine's order with us on Sunday you'll be entered into a draw to win a one year subscription to Pure Green Magazine! And we're offering free local delivery on V day! It's time to give back to my peeps!
So, yes, we've been stripping floors, walls, scrubbing, painting, you name it, this place got it and is continuing to get it. I hope I can finish everything by Sunday but if not, there's always Monday! Coriander Dad has been working overtime to help make this place a little gem. My husband('good enough to spread on a cracker' guy) has also been bustin' it to get everything ready and me, well, let's just say that on Sunday I plan to drink a lot. That's not true, I can't drink too much as it puts me to sleep! What fun is that?!! Anyway, I'm going to celebrate my pants off, I'll keep them on but you know what I mean, wow, this is a crazy blog, I'm tired and slightly delirious! So, look at a few pics of the work we've been doing and when you come on Sunday you can see the finished space. Don't judge me if you see an unfinished something, like the entire back room! I need a giant curtain!
Much love and many thanks for all the support!!
See you Sunday between 3 and 7pm and probably later as it's a party after all! 1604 Queen St. West, Toronto ON.
Alison xoxoxo

The space before we got it in our hot little hands.

The space after we got it in our hot little hands! Demolition!!

Having some fun with the heat guns.

Tyler vs laminate floor tile. Tyler wins by a landslide.

This job was actually back breaking, we really killed ourselves, it felt endless.

Hello beauty. I knew you were under there, you were worth the effort.

It turns out scraping 25 year old tar off of wood is even harder than removing 25 year old tile so word to the wise, be prepared to get dirty. Would I do it again? Abso' f#$%^inlutely! ; >

More to come!!!
A

We should all do this more often!

2012-01-19T15:17:00.000-08:00

Alison xo

Marni + Jason's wedding

2012-01-17T18:30:00.000-08:00

This wedding holds a special place in my heart. Congratulations dear darlings! Enjoy!
Alison xo

all images by Joseph+Jaime

Home Lovin'

2012-01-09T08:53:00.000-08:00

Mondays are always a favourite because we get to pack up a bag and head for the country. Our home/converted church has truly become a sanctuary for us.

Much like going to the cottage there is no TV, no phone and up until last week, no internet. Part of me wishes I could go without but I have too much work. Even though the point of coming here is to work less and have balance I need it for the fun relaxing stuff too like writing blogs! Here's the thing, we didn't get internet hooked up, we're in the middle of no where and found a signal! Thank you Bassman! I think that's bass like a fish, not like the guitar, or is it? Why do I assume he's an angler and hunter? I'm going with odds. Now, morally, I know it's wrong to jump on his or her signal, possibly slow down their connection or worse, cost them money but it's so temporary until Shaw media comes next month. The funny thing, we can only get full bars... in the bathroom. So really, the jokes on us people.

We've been sleeping by the fire as the back addition only has baseboard heaters and that's a small fortune.

Harry found his favourite cozy spot too, right in front of the fire on the warm stone.

Alison xo

Hydration ~ Why does it matter?

2012-01-06T11:06:00.000-08:00

Hydration ~ Why does it matter?

Hit the ground running

2012-01-05T13:25:00.000-08:00

Well, 2012 is proving to be one heck of a year so far! As I said in the last post, we received the keys to the new store and over the next few weeks we have to bust our little butts to make the space fabulous all the while trying to keep Coriander Girl up and running. I don't want to have to close at all during the move. If we have to close it might be for the first week of February but I'll keep you posted.Part of me wishes I could stay in my little charmer forever but if you look at the pictures below you'll understand why the move has to happen.

Here is an early shot of the interior of the shop before we got busy. The store size was perfectly cozy and then...

this happened!!! Wedding central! Can you see a flat surface to work on, let alone stand!?

Here is an exterior pic of the new shop. Very exciting!

Courage my love. I saw my doctor today for the first time in forever. I had a complete physical. They could barely draw blood because I was so dehydrated. So, I'm pledging to you as my witness, I will drink more water starting right now so that my blood can start coursing through my body with vigour! Who wants slow pathetic blood?! Not me. I can picture my blood cells having a conversation and it goes something like this, "She's walking isn't she, who cares if I take a nap?" "No Morty! We gotta get up! This girl has important things to do!" "I set my alarm, I'll see you in an hour." "But she's in a coma!" One sip of water down only a thousand more to go!
Alison xo

2012 Shake it up, shake it off! Bits 14!

2011-12-31T14:35:00.000-08:00

It's been quite the year. What can I say? The greatest year of my life is an understatement. We're so blessed and so grateful. Our families and our friends continue to amaze us with their love and support. I'm looking forward to the year ahead. Today I picked up the keys to Coriander Girl's new home across the street. A larger space with a backyard and a full basement. 2012 is looking pretty exciting so far. I have many goals, resolutions aren't really my style so I'll keep it simple.

In no particular order,
1. Shake it up, shake it off.
2. Shake it up, shake it off.
3. Shake it up, shake it off.

That'll do.

Let's make waves people! Shake it up!
If you're actions come from a place of love, you can't go wrong. Surround yourself with loving, supportive people and let go of the painful relationships that stifle your joyful heart. Shake off the negative experiences that drag you down and lighten your heavy heart with a good dance break. Take bigger risks because life is too short to sit back and watch other people live their dreams.
Happy New Year my darlings! Wishing you a year filled with good things and triumphs o' plenty!
Now dance with me!
Alison xo

Florence and the Machines~ Shake it up, shake it off

Toronto Life Wedding Guide 2012!

2011-12-17T09:16:00.000-08:00

photos of the wedding and of the magazine by Joseph + Jaime

Our wedding is featured in the 2012 Toronto Life Wedding Guide! Harry is famous! Thank you Toronto Life Magazine! Thank you darling Joseph and Jaime, our incredible photographers and a big congratulations to you both for having a second wedding in the album. Coriander Girl did the flowers for three out of the seven weddings featured! What?! Congratulations to Gwendolyn and Joshua (July 3rd wedding) and to Kelly and Murray (August 21st wedding).
We are beside ourselves with glee. Shock!!! Amazement!!
What a year! I am so blessed and endlessly grateful for the press Coriander Girl has received and then to see our wedding included in the magazine, well it's all just so lovely! Thanks again to Bonnie of BE Catering, Edward and Amy of The Merrill Inn(Dessert Table), Janis from Elm Hill Cookies(gift bag cookies), Shira Leuchter, Maybelle, and Momento Design for their beautiful work on the invites, Brandon Corke(DJ), Rachel Smith(hair and makeup), Willow Rutherford and Kelsey McNulty (musicians), Erin Candela(art for gift bags), Thompson Tents, Jaime Dobbs (The Sassy Lamb), Aly and John Barber(MC's), Brittany Smith(my maid of honour), our families for their generosity, love and support and our amazing friends who rocked it! What a blast. I'd do it all again tomorrow.

Alison xo

Coriander Bits 13!

2011-12-15T14:50:00.001-08:00

Alison xo

Honest Gut

2011-12-02T18:15:00.000-08:00

Marion and Dave's wedding, shot by Elizabeth In Love Photography

Honest Gut is a phrase coined lovingly by my bf's mom, Heather. She would corner us during a weak moment and say, "okay girls, honest gut, how do you really feel?" And, you'd have to face your inner truth because it's the deepest part of your being, there is no where left for the truth to hide. So here's my 'honest gut.' This blog has only ever been about my life(guts and all) with the business, so why change now? Here goes.

Honest gut, I can't believe we reached the end of another wedding season... and we're still alive. It was an emotional roller coaster to say the least. I laughed, I cried, I suffered minor melt downs. Coriander dad gave many pep talks, picture me (Rocky) Dad (Mickey). Kerriander was also a major rock, picture me (Danielson) her (Mr. Miyagi). There was a few days where I questioned if this business was even what I wanted. I opened a tiny little boutique with the idea to make the occasional bouquet, sell a hand crafted trinket here and there and pursue my real passion for antique collecting. I had no idea the flowers would become the thing to put Coriander Girl on the map. Honest Gut, I wasn't going to do wedding flowers. I thought it might be too stressful. It is the most stressful work I've ever done, trying to design flowers for a couples wedding day, the expectations are grand. It's also been the most rewarding work I've ever done. I know it's not brain surgery and I'm not saving lives or anything but when a bride sees her flowers for the first time and tears spill down her freshly powdered face and she mouths "oh my gosh Alison", drawing out 'Alisssooonnnn' you can't help but feel real satisfaction. It's the same scene again and again, a montage of summer wedding moments, me hugging brides and mothers, exiting hotel rooms, family homes and reception halls. I take a moment for myself in the elevator mirror, 'way to go kid, you got through this one' I nod, and it's on to the next nail biter. It was the school of hard knocks and anything I didn't know, I learned it fast. I came out the other side of this wedding cycle with a genuine respect for the floral business and florists everywhere who are busy making arrangements for other peoples triumphs and rarely having the opportunity to celebrate their own. I can't believe we found a little time for ourselves to get married. With that, I missed many birthdays, many new babies have come that I've yet to meet and endless brunch dates are long over due. I miss my friends. I miss getting a latte and walking down the street with absolutely nothing on my agenda for the day but to browse window displays. I miss being bored(Jaime:>) I miss falling asleep without a thought in my head. I miss an empty inbox, I miss sewing. I miss Nia, I miss having the time to dress up and look pretty. I miss sun on my face and I miss riding bikes with Tyler down to the lake and feeding the ducks. For all that I've missed there have been great rewards and being so busy has taught me how important balance is and that it's okay to take on a little less. I'm learning to close my computer. And, I did have fun this summer despite being so busy, I made a ton of new friends and I'm certain that I'll be staying in touch with many of my lovely wedding couples. You know who you are! We had something special. It has been a pleasure working with people who have allowed me the freedom to create for them in my wacky, non traditional organic way. I feel the flowers, it has to flow and if it's not... flowing, I've got to walk away~dance or something and then come back to it. At the end of the day, I've reconciled that my business, like a baby, is growing up, taking off the training wheels and now the braces and has started dating. She's winning awards and scoring magazine features! Like a proud mom, I tell my friends about her, I blog about her and maybe I brag too much about her but I just can't believe she's mine. I can't believe this wee little seed has grown into such a beautiful thing. A thing that I would never abandon for anything in the world no matter how much sleep I'm losing. She has bewitched me and filled my life with beauty. 'They' say the true test of whether or not you're happy in your life is to imagine winning the lottery, would you still be doing what you're doing? I can honestly say, I love what I do and would want to keep doing it. That doesn't mean I can't hire 15 people to help me!! An army! The Coriander Cadets! Coriander's Comrads, The Coriander Crew!! And maybe I'd be booking spring wedding consults from our Italian villa; >
So, there it is, my honest gut(Thanks Heather). I pinch my self every day for my good fortune. I know how lucky I am to be so busy and I also know that in a blink it can all be taken away. I'm realizing it's important for me to celebrate the good stuff out loud because it makes the reality of how hard I'm working so much more bearable. I'm thankful beyond words and very much looking forward to the next wedding season. And with a rock like Tyler, he helps me reach greater heights, take bigger risks, and the restful moments are absolute bliss. Picture me (Batman) Tyler (Batman) ;>

Karen and Peter's wedding shot by Garrison MacArthur Photographers.

Juli and Jon's wedding kicked off wedding season shot by Danijela Pruginic

one of the last and most favourite weddings this year, Marni and Jason shot by Joseph + Jaime

Alison xo

Congratulations Aly and John!

2011-11-26T17:45:00.000-08:00

Charlie William Barber was born today at 7:33am to proud parents, my dear friends, Alison and John Barber. Aly is my very best friends(Britty) sister, I got to watch this shy teenager grow up to be an amazing, extremely accomplished young woman. Now to see Aly with her first baby moves me to tears of absolute joy. Alison and John lovingly mc'd our wedding this summer and helped make our day truly magnificent. Alison is an actress and published author here in Toronto and John a valiant firefighter, together they make an incredible team. Congratulations my dears. Much love and I can't wait to meet your baby boy!

Congratulations to Auntie Bitty and Auntie Rachel too! And to all the proud grandparents!

all photos by Joseph+Jaime

I'll never forget our summers spent in Wasaga Beach, lying about our ages, singing TLC's Waterfalls at the top of our lungs while driving the strip. "Babes on floats!" Love you gorgeous girls.
Alison xo

Our wedding flowers!

2011-11-24T14:20:00.001-08:00

I'm a wedding florist for gosh sakes and I kind of forgot to blog about our wedding flowers! Ha!

Leucadendron~ Blushing Bride (I think I may have chosen our date knowing this flower was going to be in season) The spiky texture of this flower juxtaposes the softness of the baby pink so beautifully. If I have a top five it's in my top five.

Queen Anne's lace another favourite flower(top three) of mine and my maid of honour and an obvious choice as the fields were exploding with them in a sea of lacy white magnificence.

A simple cluster of wildflowers plunked in a mason jar.

My bouquet, tied lovingly with gardeners twine not two hours before walking down the aisle. Queen Anne's lace with a rich purple scabiosa

Brittany's bouquet a simple cluster of greens with Queen Anne's lace

Small groupings of bullet allium, phlox, and astrantia fill old apothecary jars and vintage milk bottles.

Towering delphinium grown locally, of course :>

And finally the boutonnieres, I like to call them 'wispy clusters of love.' When I used to shoot weddings on the side of my acting career, it was not uncommon to see sad little boutonnieres, the flower slumped over and hanging on by a single thread of fiber after only minutes of saying "I Do." I vowed, never, NEVER will I make a boutonniere that will fall to bits under a good hug. Hug away my dear grooms! Did anyone happen to notice the little white bunnies on Tyler's tie?

All photos by Joseph and Jaime

It's the same ol' story of the plumber with a leaky faucet, the chef who orders take out and the cobbler with holes in her shoes.
I was making boutonnieres while Rachel was doing my make up! I hadn't realized that perhaps I should have started the wedding flowers a few days before, heck, you only need them to last one day! All that said, I loved the simplicity of it all. Big fluffy clusters of Queen Anne's lace spilling out of rusted sap buckets, hand tied bunches of lavender any and every spot we could hang it and simple bouquets of wild flowers ended up being more than I could have ever hoped for. Coriander Girl is never over fussed so why would my wedding flowers be any different? Any regrets? I should have warn a hand made floral head wreath. We've been doing a lot of these lately but I didn't have the time. Perhaps I'll wear one if we decide to renew our vows in ten years. Oh it's on!
And it's time for possibly the last wedding post next week which will include details about our amazing DJ, our lovely and talented MC's and the gorgeous musicians.
Thank you so much for sticking with me as I share these details. One day, I'm going to be so glad I documented the wedding this extensively. So much for my 3 part series!
Alison xo

Coriander Girl Bits 12!

2011-11-18T18:51:00.000-08:00

Always a gorgeous freeze frame! Lol!

Isn't that wonderful?! Note to fellow proprietors, 1537 Queen St. West is available for February 1st. The community needs more crafters, artists, jewellers(not Russell Oliver) but inspired, impassioned people like you! Is it time to open that shop you always dreamed of? Here's to taking giant leaps of faith. I can't believe that after only 2 years we've completely outgrown our little shop. I could cry! It was the perfect place for me. I learned so much and I wish I could stay there forever but in business you've got to move forward, cautiously, carefully, you've got to take risks if you want to grow.

Alison xo

The last of the wedding details

2011-11-16T13:10:00.000-08:00

What we gave our guests!

This was one of my most favourite elements of the wedding, getting to choose what to give our dear guests. Two fabulous women contributed to the gift bags. The first woman you've heard me go on and on about because she's one of my dearest and most talented friends. Her name is Erin Candela and she's an extraordinary artist. This past year she and a couple artist friends opened the doors on their very own gallery called Graven Feather Studio. She's a phenomenal woman and clearly her work speaks for itself. She drew this canadian wild flower for us and we couldn't be more excited about being able to share Erin's art with our friends and families. I tell everyone to hold it tight because it's gonna be worth a fortune some day!
Thank you Erin for this very special contribution!

If you know me at all, what's one thing you could bet the farm on? Is it that I adore cookies? ding ding ding!
Janis Smith of Elm Hill Cookies in Oakville is the incredible woman behind this incredible cookie company and for our guests she made up little gift boxes of love filled with her deliciously decadent cookies, I'm salivating!!!

Janis! Thank you so much for this unbelievably generous gift. We adore you and can't wait to come for another visit soon! I wrote a post last year about Janis's milk and cookie bar, I still imagine myself coming in after a crazy wedding weekend the scene would play out like an old western, I'm Clint Eastwood. "Gimme a shot of your finest 2%, make it a double on the rocks, it's been a rough day." End scene.

And look! It's Harry our bunny! She put him on a sandwich cookie! I'm serious, if you like cookies you need to visit this cookie shop. Not only are the cookies amazing but Janis makes you feel like you're visiting a friend you haven't seen in a while.

All images except for Erin's wildflower and this lavender sachet are by the beautiful and talented Joseph + Jaime

And finally a little fresh lavender from Coriander Girl.

Alison xo

A wee break from wedding details

2011-11-02T18:15:00.000-07:00

A wee break from the wedding details to bring you some exciting news! We just bought this 100 year old converted church!!!

It's on a quarter of an acre,

It has a lovely little barn,

ceilings that soar and hard wood floors that go on for miles,

the sweetest little kitchen to inspire getting back to the table,

a wood burning stove and single pane windows mean my darling is going to split a lot of wood this winter,

and the perfect sized yard to create a magical garden for our magical bunny to frolic.

We picked up our keys on Wednesday and immediately started tackling the overgrown yard. I saw a whole new side to my love, the rugged lumberjack side, so hot! We feel so blessed to have this beautiful place to call our own. It's such an amazing feeling to own your own property. I've never been so excited to rake grass! We'll be renting out the townhouse so if anyone knows anyone who needs a beautiful victorian rental property in Belleville, let me know!

Thanks again to our beautiful families for their endless love and support!
Alison xo

Country Wedding Extravaganza~Part 3.5

2011-10-26T19:16:00.000-07:00

What we wore.

Brittany needed a christmas party dress I think, and we found ourselves at the Sherway Gardens... Sherway Gardens! I never dreamed I'd find my wedding dress there but alas, I came out of the dressing room at BCBG to gasps and a few tears, looked my best friend in the eye and said, "Bitty, did I just find my wedding dress at the Sherway Gardens?"
Easy peasy, lemon squeezy and it was under $300. I know right!

My shoes were the most darling little ballet flats from JCREW and my undergarments were from American Apparel.

My hair was loving twisted with the help of my make up artist and dear friend(Britt's sister) Rachel Smith. Who is practically famous for her make up artistry, she travels the world for goodness sake! And in the 11th hour when my veil did not arrive in the post on time, Rachel went out and found me a little feather fascinator to wear from Runway Bridal. She sent over iphone pics to the salon where we were getting our nails done. I chose the smallest, least showy of the bunch and it worked well until midway through the dinner the girls alerted me that the feather had practically taken flight and was doing it's own thing on my head, time to let it go.

Britt's darling little number was found at TNT. I wanted her to look like a goddess of the fields, natural and nymph like. I thought she looked absolutely beautiful.

The boys wore outfits from... wait for it... Le Chateau. Le Chateau!! I'm sorry but that linen suit we found for Tyler was so darling. Who knew Le Chateau had such great pieces and for such good prices. He looked like a cross between Gilbert Blythe(Anne of Green Gables), Sting(when he was with the Police) and a blonde John Stamos. Tyler's tie was from Holt Renfrew and his shoes were from Aldo.

Our bro's also wore shirts and slacks from LC. The Coriander dad's suit was from LC too.

Everyone looked spectacular. Our guests even seemed to match the overall colour scheme!
What a freakin' blast!
Alison xo

Kerriander

2011-10-25T21:32:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to our darling Kerri, her husband Andy and their son Lawson, as they welcomed a new born baby boy to their family this morning!! Oct. 25th, 2011. We're so excited and waiting patiently to know the little doodles name. So exciting!!!

Alison xo

A Country Wedding Extravaganza Part 3~More details

2011-10-22T11:12:00.000-07:00

The first and most important element of a wedding is, "where are we gonna have this thing?!", and then for us the food.
My mom and pop's farm was really the only place we considered as it was the most perfect back drop for a wedding. The rolling hills and lush fields were an ideal place for photos. I grew up in those fields, cursing at the sky for being held hostage in the country by my parents. Cursing at the sky, clutching many a broken heart. Cursing at the sky most recently for having to leave and come back to the city... go figure. It seemed fitting to bring this gleeful heart home for the celebration. Tyler was completely on board to have it there, if we couldn't run away with our nearest and dearest to the Italian country side that is.
We used Thompson Tents from Belleville and I have to say that I was absolutely blown away by the customer service Paul and his team provided, thanks BJ! They made us feel like they cared about us and wanted nothing more than to help make our day amazing. Truly, you guys went above and beyond, bringing the extra tent in case of the rain, unbelievable! Tyler and I cannot thank you enough.

Here's my love the day before the wedding, helping decorate the tent, and looking positively edible I might add. "Waiter, I'd like to have the salmon please and for dessert I'll have the Tyler."

What can I say about Bonnie Kubica of BE Catering. This woman is fabulous. The food was fresh and local, just what we had hoped for and more. No chafing dishes here! Bonnie worked with us to create a menu of things we loved, mini local bison burgers, organic beet salad with fresh chevre, and fresh baked rosemary and olive bread just to name a few. And, and, and she kept us laughing along the way, what could be better than that?!

All pictures except the one with Tyler by Joseph and Jaime Photography

And finally dessert, ahhhh dessert. Possibly my second favourite thing on the planet. Not long after we shared the news of our engagement with friends and fellow business owners Edward and Amy, did they come to us with a gift like no other. They offered to do our entire dessert table! These proud owners of the historic Merrill Inn in Picton Ontario(where we got engaged, well sort of, we got engaged in front of Arnie's muffler and general repair and stayed at the Inn), know how to put on a spread. The dessert table was a perfect blend of country bake sale meets fine dining. Home made pies, tarts, crumbles and cupcakes finished off our meal so beautifully. Thank you dear Edward and Amy for making our wedding day so special.

Final details to come, FLOWERS!?, what we wore and what we gave to our guests. Who sang and played instruments, who DJ'd and who drove that tractor?

Here's to walking in fields with your lobster.

Alison xo

Courage

2011-10-19T13:18:00.000-07:00

Courage, patience, strength and trust. Love is everywhere. We are not alone.
Alison xo

A Country Wedding Extravaganza Part 3

2011-10-10T19:33:00.000-07:00

The Details

Vintage stamps from Send More Mail

I'm going to start at the beginning with the invitations and signage as I feel they really helped set the tone for our wedding. Our jumping off point was the calligraphy. I knew I had to work with the extraordinarily talented Maybelle, who is responsible for the beautiful Coriander Girl logo and so much more. I wanted another incredibly talented friend of mine, Shira Leuchter to do the illustrations, as she does custom illustrations for a living and so beautifully. Next, we had another dear friend, Daniela Patane (Momento Design), put it all together for us. She did the layout and hand cut every single deckled edge herself and gave them to us for our wedding gift. We cannot express enough the gratitude we feel for the amazing work these phenomenal women did for us. Thank you so much beauties!
In the end, the invitations far exceeded our expectations.

Cute little hand made signs for the photo booth.

All images by Joseph and Jaime photography

More details to come!
Alison xo

A Country Wedding Extravaganza Part 2 of Part 2

2011-10-02T17:47:00.001-07:00

More family and friend love.

Me and my 93 year old Nana! She still bowls strikes, they call her Striker.

Tyler's dear grandparents.

Pretty Ciara and Willow just chillin' in the grass.

My beautiful girls and handsome Mr. Jay Pollack taking a wee deep.

Our amazing musicians Willow and Kelsey poolside.

Tyler's bro and best man Travis and his beautiful girlfriend Natasha.

Daughter #2, 3 and 4! Bitty, Aly and Rachy! xo

That's my girl.

Part 3, wedding details to come!
Alison xoxo

A Country Wedding Extravaganza Part 2 in two parts!

2011-10-01T10:29:00.000-07:00

Family and friend love! All photographs by the lovely and talented Joseph + Jaime.
Part 1

What a handsome bunch!

Every country wedding needs a hay ride, can I get an amen!?

Sweet Mama and Pop and my dear brother Josh

Coriander Diddy!! What a dapper fellow.

Me and my brother, hey ladies~he's single fyi

The beautiful Hogans with their babes

Tyler with pretty mama Penny

Tyler and his darling dad Bill

My stunningly beautiful best friend and made of honour Brittany

Having a good dance in the fields

Okay, is it just me or does this photo look like a movie poster?! Someone suggested the cover of a CD of a really cool band. Our tractor driver Willard fits in perfectly! Haha!

And finally Harry. The wedding would not have been the same without our little bun. I must tell you he recently fell ill and was literally knockin' on heavens door. We've been syringe feeding him and have totally saved our little bunny from certain death! I can joke about it a little now but in all seriousness one night just last week, we spent the night in tears saying good bye as his little lips turned blue and he was too weak to eat or drink. I think we loved him back to life.
Let's cheer for the magical bunny, Mr. Harry Hogan!!! Hip hip hoorah!
Part two of two soon to come!
Alison xoxox

Tyler and Alison's Country Wedding Extravaganza Part 1

2011-09-21T13:56:00.000-07:00

We just received a mile high stack of gorgeous wedding pics from our amazing photographers Joseph and Jaime, the images absolutely blew us away and I'm so excited to share them with all of you!!! So, here's how it's gonna go down. I'm thinking a three part series. Perhaps a general overview and from there we'll introduce the beautiful pics of our family, friends and the decorative details, sound good!? Woot woot!

Let's do this!

More details to come!
Thanks everyone for your wedding well wishes, it truly was the most magnificent day of our lives!
Alison xo

Lil' doodle

2011-09-18T21:07:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you've gotta just stop and appreciate the little doodles.

Alison xo

Summer weddings!

2011-09-08T20:04:00.000-07:00

Just a few highlights from some of our most recent weddings. Congratulations to all of our beautiful brides and handsome grooms!

Alison xo

Guess what day it is!

2011-09-02T14:42:00.000-07:00

Thanks again to all of you for supporting me and the business for 2 whole years! More of our wedding details soon!
Alison xo

Hey Summer~it's me Alison

2011-08-27T14:14:00.000-07:00

I know we haven't seen much of each other... it's not that I don't want to spend time with you. I think you're lovely.
It's been a busy time for me. It's kind of a poor excuse though, I should have made time for you. Hey summer, did you know I
got married a couple of weeks back? He's the most tender hearted human and he loves me more than the stars. I know the two of you have shared some time by the pool recently and I couldn't be happier... honest. Perhaps we'll all have a chance to frolic together before Autumn comes to take your place. Until then.
Alison xo

Just a few to tease you!

2011-08-18T12:42:00.000-07:00

Joseph and Jaime popped into Coriander Girl today with a few photographs from the wedding. These are Fujifilm's Instax, like polaroids but even cuter! They are the size of a credit card in real life!
Thanks for taking the time to drop off these darling photos before you head out for Italy tomorrow guys!!! Sorry I couldn't join you but I'm dreaming about your plum french toast!

click on photo for a larger view, is that obvious?;>
Alison xo

August 6th 2011 Our wedding day

2011-08-12T14:47:00.000-07:00

I've spent the last year dreaming about our wedding day. Obviously I had expectations but I can honestly say it blew me away and was the single most glorious day of my life. Every moment of it was perfection. I think there was a moment that I got to choose whether or not I was going to 'sweat the small stuff' in the early morning my maid of honour and very best friend, Brittany Smith, assured me the rain was not going to come even though the clouds were rolling in and the weather network promised rain by 80 percent. When you have as many people as we had praying to the sun gods, collectively we made a difference! And the rain held off! It held off just long enough for the campers to pick up the last of their things the next morning and then it poured for two days! We had angels surrounding us that day. My allergies were no where to be found, I suffered not a single mosquito bite and the eye twitch I've had for well over three months vanished a couple days before our big day. That's all I needed, to squint my way through our vows! I decided to come in to the ceremony on a tractor, a flat bed to be exact, perched on a bail of hay. We met Willard at the end of the road and dad helped get me situated on the tractor and then he and Britt drove off and over the hill they went. There I was, all alone on my bail of hay, the wind gently blowing through my hair. I was overcome with joy as we descended the hill towards my love, and our family and friends. I was so overcome that I squealed at the top of my lungs, of course having no idea that they could all hear this yelp echo throughout the valley below where they were waiting patiently. I guess it cut some of the nervous tension building as Tyler stood waiting for me to arrive. And what a moment that was. As I approached, the group stood and clapped and cried and laughed and it was truly the most love I have ever felt in my life. Seeing Tyler for the first time was nothing short of magical. Not a moment is blurry, as I was more grounded and more present than I had ever hoped I would be. The vows resonated so deeply as we spoke them. Nothing felt rushed. The biggest surprise and certainly the best gift we could have given ourselves was to have my father marry us. I knew being pronounced husband and wife was BIG but I had no idea it would be as profound for me as it was. I also didn't expect to feel any different now, exactly one week later, but I do feel different. It's a deeper commitment and we've been speaking to each other with even more tenderness, if that's possible.
The rest of the day played out much like the beginning, with abundant joy. Our families now joined and loving each other more than we could have ever hoped, gathered on the tractor following the ceremony and headed up the hill for pictures. Joseph and Jaime our amazing photographers were like super heroes dangling off the flat bed like spider man, they helped make the experience even more magnificent! We can't wait to see how they captured our day and as soon as we have something to show you we'll post them here on the blog! The dinner and dessert was superb and the dance was killer! We had karaoke intermixed with dance beats and I think it worked really well. I'll never forget singing a duet with my nephew Jack to Billy Idol's White Wedding. Our MC's, Aly and John were hilarious, the speeches were so heart felt and our families amazed us with just how much they could share their emotions. It was beautiful to see so many tears that night.... Bill. ;> And the laughter was infectious.
There are too many people to thank all at once here and so over the next few weeks I'm going to shine a light on the people who helped make our day so amazing. I had to at least say hello for now and give you the highlight reel.
Can't wait to share more of this incredible day with you. Thanks to everyone for your love and support.
All my love.
Alison xoxo

A lovely wedding shower

2011-07-30T16:11:00.000-07:00

My bestest friend in the land, Ms. Brittany Smith threw me the most magnificent wedding shower last week, even though we were in the 11th hour she felt it was really important, and I'm so glad she did. Our dearest friend Jamie Dobbs A.K.A The Sassy Lamb joined in to help out with food and decorations and a lovely wedding shower was born.

To have all my best girl friends and very special lady family members showering me with love was so magical.

Jaime's desserts were so beautiful, and look! It's a cookie in honour of our rabbit Harry and maybe I'm biased but her Coriander cupcakes are to die for!

Coriander Girl flowers had to make an appearance.

Cucumber water, yes please!

Such beauties.

I would like to thank all the beautiful women who attended and contributed to the group gift, a spa day!!! It's booked and I'm going on Tuesday! For those of you who couldn't make it, you were deeply missed. Much love to every single one of you for making this such a special day for me. A special thank you to my dear friend Jenn for her delicious salads and joyful spirit, darling Mischa for helping Britt and me in so many ways, to my dear Kerriander for taking so much stress off of me on a daily basis and a killer fruit salad and to my aunties for their fruit and vegetable contributions as well. What fun we had!
Stay tuned, as the next post will have even more details with pictures by the lovely Jaime Dobbs(The Sassy Lamb).
Alison xo

Wedding season!

2011-07-16T18:37:00.000-07:00

Hi darling doodles! I've been MIA because it's wedding season and wedding season means weddings, weddings, weddings all day every day without rest! Not only am I doing 50 weddings for other people but I'm getting married in less than 3 weeks!!! So,
in order for me to fully experience my own I've got to get completely caught up. If you think I've been off the map, friends and family, these next two weeks I'm going to encourage you to not file a missing person's report and trust that I'll be back soon!
Much love! And huge shout outs for my florist sisters...and brothers too!
Alison xo

My darlings!

2011-06-29T18:03:00.000-07:00

Every once and awhile my beautiful friends, France, Van and Helene from Montreal come to TO for a visit and it's always the most lovely and hilarious time. If you can believe it, they slept in the store! These girls seriously rule.
Ladies, thank you so much for stopping over and taking my mind off of the stress of my business for a little while. I'll be coming to Montreal very soon to party it up!

Alison xo

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-19T15:47:00.001-07:00

To my darling dad. Happy Father's Day. My dear blog followers have come to know you as the Coriander Dad, Coriander Delivery boy, Coriander Caterer, Coriander Renovator, my Coriander Cheerleader. If they only knew just how extraordinary you really are. Your generosity, endless encouragement and support astonishes me every day.Your enthusiasm for life is infectious. I know how blessed I am to have you so close. Just yesterday as we boarded the water taxi to deliver flowers to Toronto Island I thought, "this is a time in my life I won't ever forget." I've said it just recently but we've become quite the team haven't we?
We've always been the others sidekick but more so than ever it seems. I love how close you and Tyler have become. I love you so completely. I want to yell it from roof tops to honour you! A wee blog post will have to do.

And to my darling step father, Walter Morehouse, Happy Father's Day. Your quiet praise is felt deep in my heart. Truly your support and love come through loud and clear. I don't have a pic of you on this new laptop, remember the water damage fiasco? But friends, I can assure you he's a handsome fellow. Picture a cross between, George Clooney and Danny Devito, yeah, my mom's one lucky lady! Really, you're such an adorable human and you've loved us a whole lot. Thank you so much for all that you've done for me pop.

And to Tyler's darling dad Bill, my soon to be my Father-in-law, Happy Father's Day Billy! The love you've shown your boys should have won you some kind of an award. And you've been so very loving to me, thank you. I hope you're having an extraordinary day today. Much love.

To all you dads out there and father's to be, Happy Father's Day! To my brother~ way to go! Jack is an incredible young man.
To my friends and family who have lost their fathers and some of you much too soon, my heart aches for you today. I simply cannot imagine life without dad.

In celebration of fathers, let's have a dance!
This one's for you Diddy! It's his theme song.
Click here and dance with me!

Alison xo

Wedding love

2011-06-11T19:11:00.000-07:00

We've been busy little bees at the shop these days. We're in the heart of wedding season! Big high five to all my florist sisters and brothers out there who know exactly what we're going through. It's really hard to balance life right now but I'm doing my very best and certainly no complaints about being so busy, if anything, heartbroken that we're starting to have to turn weddings away! More pics to come!
Alison xo

Love at first slurp!

2011-06-08T14:04:00.000-07:00

When Lisa from A Food Gypsy came into Coriander Girl last week offering hand delivered fresh made soups, I thought, "This is a good idea. It's meals on wheels but soup and she's usually on foot so maybe it's nothing like meals on wheels! Or like any other take out because it's so different. It's fresh beautiful ingredients, sourced locally and the mason jar can go to great use here! She had me at summer split pea and dill and next week is tasty asparagus and leek. Nutritious gourmet soups in my fridge every week to get me through these long wedding work days, mom would be happy!
Thanks Lisa! Today's soup was extraordinarily delicious.
Alison xo

Spring cleaning=sweet dreaming

2011-06-05T16:22:00.000-07:00

I don't know what it is about re-arranging a space that makes me feel all giddy n' stuff but my goodness, it's so much better to work in the shop now!
After three weddings last week end, Kerriander and I decided we couldn't work like this anymore. The boutique was crammed with arrangements and with no work space, we felt uninspired and even a little crabby. Coriander Girl crabby? Oh yeah, it happens.
When customers come in to the shop on a wedding week end, they don't know what to do with themselves because there is no place to move! So, what did we do?
This picture below shows the old space, a central table for product, the long counter top and the space behind for storage(junk) and the long work table to the side was more retail space.

First, Coriander Dad removed the giant counter top I thought I needed, which really was just a catch all for crapola, he chopped her in half and we brought it down into the centre of the shop. Next we repositioned some of the carts and things at the back of the shop to accommodate the work table I had in the front of the shop. It's a whole new world!

Here's that space I was talking about behind the counter, a waste of space really. Now we can design back there, I can meet with clients around the work table and people coming into the shop don't have to weave around buckets of flowers and clippings all over the floor!

Here's the back area now! As you can see there are arrangements all around but not cluttering up the front of the house. I'll have more pictures of the rest of the space soon and pictures of the weddings we've done so far this season!

And here's the lil' doodle hardly phased at all by the changes.

I want to thank my dad for being by my side on wedding deliveries and for set up these past few weeks. We've been quite the team and he's even becoming as meticulous as me, if not more, when it comes to moving the flowers from the shop to the truck to the venue. He treats them with such care, like the delicate little master pieces they are. He's just so dear and treats me with such great respect when we're working and in life. I'm so lucky. Thanks Diddy.

Alison xo

Coriander Girl featured in Pure Green Magazine!

2011-05-25T18:44:00.000-07:00

I am jumping for joy over Coriander Girl's most recent bit of good fortune, we've been featured in the summer issue of Pure Green Living magazine! What an honour and a thrill!!
If you haven't yet had the opportunity to read this lovely magazine, I'm so happy to show you what you've been missing!

Thank you to the lovely Celine MacKay, Editor in Chief, for including me in this issue of your fabulous magazine! I had so much fun during the shoot. Also a big thank you to Erin Monett for taking such incredibly beautiful pictures and to the rest of the team as well. The shop looks so darling!

Be sure to check out Pure Green Living's blog for all things green!

Alison xoxo

Coriander Bit #9!

2011-05-19T14:54:00.000-07:00

That's a pretty awesome freeze frame!
Alison xo

New artisans yippeee!

2011-05-15T11:26:00.000-07:00

So, I think it's about time we shine a light on the new artisans selling their beautiful creations at Coriander Girl. I'd like to begin with a gal whose work really takes my breath away. Her creations are so delicate, so rustic, so charming and I can barely keep them in stock. If you haven't heard about Kalpna Patel and her company Old Weston, you're in for a treat! Feast your eyes on her beautiful work below. And visit her blog to see what this incredible crafty lady is up to.

Twig brooches are cast from real twigs and are sterling silver or brass
Her signature acorn necklaces are either sterling silver or gold-plated, they all have real pearls on the bottom and swarovski crystals attached to them. Kalpna, it's an absolute honour to carry your beautiful pieces at Coriander Girl! xo

She might not consider herself an artisan but I believe there is an art to growing plants and my bestest friend in the universe was born with a bright green thumb. This girl could bring life to a rubber tire. Brittany Smith, thank you for Joy Greens. Joy Greens is organic cat grass grown lovingly by my bestest friend in the universe! It's harder to come by than you might think and your kitties are gonna thank you for holding the pesticides! Bitty's cats name is Joy Credenza and his testimonial goes something like this, "me likey grassy mommy."

And finally, you can get all these wonderful creations when you place an order for a Gift Box of Love! Come by the shop and with your flowers you can also put together a little Gift Box of Love for that special someone you adore. You can put anything in the Gift Box of Love, Joy Greens, an Old Weston twig brooch, a delicious Waupoos Cider from The Merrill Inn or a soap from Honey Pie Hives and Herbals. That's the beauty of the GBOL!

Until next time dear friends!
Alison xo

Happy Mother's Day mumma!

2011-05-08T18:06:00.001-07:00

Happy Mother's day my beautiful Mumma! I love you soooo much! You complete me. Seriously, I don't know what I'd be without you're unwavering friendship, love and support. You're simply the best, Josh and I could not be luckier.
And to Tyler's dear mumma Penny, we love you lady, you're so special, so giving, so cute! I'm so happy you and my mum are becoming fast friends! And to my darling Nana(92 and as sharp as a tack still bowlin' strikes! Striker!) and to Ty's dear gramma Cecile(nine kids raised all on her own!) and Auntie Teenie and dearest Bogie and Martine and Martine and Aunt Debbie and Aunt Sandra and Aunt Ursula and Aunt Betty and Dara too! And to Rach in B.C, and to my sweet Lisa and to dear Daniela and Kat, and Sarah and Laura and Kerriander and Kristine and Judy and Sandy, and Micah and Liz and Mel and Catherine and France;> And to all the lovely mums who gave my friends life today, thank you. And to the awesome mums who bring their lil' doodles to Coriander Girl. And to anyone with doggies and kitties and bunnies and snakes, we're mumma's too! And if I've forgotten someone it's because I'm absolutely exhausted, you know who you are and that I adore you.
I love you all, you're amazing warrior women.
Alison xo

Coriander Girl on The Wedding Co!

2011-05-04T12:40:00.001-07:00

Coriander Girl was featured on The Wedding Co. today! I'm so over the moon about this! Catherine Lash visited the shop last week and stayed for almost two hours interviewing me. I told her it felt like she slipped me truth serum, she was so easy to talk to that I would have told her anything! Catherine hosts The Spring Wedding show and The Carlu show every year and if you haven't already heard about this fabulous woman I'm certain you will as her star is quickly rising. Catherine started The Wedding Co. just over ten years ago because she felt the need to bring together all of the incredible people she was meeting in the industry as a wedding photographer. She is an extraordinary woman doing great things for small businesses, creating a diverse network of talented people. It was an honour having her here in my shop.
Be sure to check out The Wedding Co and watch for upcoming events like The Wedding Collection, 15 years of wedding photographs on display by Catherine Lash and Stephen Bulger. And Catherine's regular posts which include anything from a Toronto wedding to what's happening around the globe.

Alison xo

Still swooning

2011-05-01T19:39:00.001-07:00

image re-blogged from myflightoffancy

Alison xo

The Spring Wedding Show!

2011-04-29T19:30:00.000-07:00

It's the Spring Wedding show today, April 30th, at The Drake hotel!
Come visit Coriander Girl and all the other extraordinary vendors between 10am and 4pm!
Tickets are only $10.
Yipppeeee!

Speaking of weddings, did you watch William and Kate's wedding this morning? It was spectacularly hopeful and made my heart really really happy. What a thrill to be able to watch such a historical event!
Two kisses!
Alison xo

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T18:39:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter everybody!

We love our lil' Easter bun bun.
Alison xo

Perspective

2011-04-19T18:23:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling so much better, sometimes all I have to do to put things into perspective is to ask myself, 'Al, what are you grateful for?'

I'm grateful for the boat loads of love in my life.
I'm grateful for my little shop of flowers.

I'm grateful for friends who show me unconditional love even though I haven't been there for all the triumphs in their lives lately.
I'm grateful for sunshine and even for the rain as it encourages more springtime bloomage.

I'm grateful for grapefruit.
I'm grateful for our littlest doodle, Harry Hogan.

I'm grateful for this magnificent fellow beside me, he's one amazing human to have by your side.
And I'm grateful for you dear reader, it's really rewarding writing my little blog.

Alison xo

D U M P S

2011-04-18T15:52:00.000-07:00

Is anyone else down in the dumps? I don't have any reason to be. It's literally this crap weather we've been having. I wanna pull the blankets up over my head and hide away from it all. The work is piling and I'm staying on top of it but you know that feeling, when you're dangerously close to dropping the ball. I'm not gonna drop my ball, I'm gonna keep makin' three pointers from centre court and I'm gonna retire my jersey one day as a hall of famer. The sun just has to come out. I'm like the opposite of a vampire! I wither with every passing cloud.
On a more positive note, change is upon us. The shop is looking lovelier than ever and I'm hopeful that spring really is just around the corner. I need a dance! Here's a nice one.

And yes, that is Robin Williams.
Alison xo

Shop lovin'

2011-04-09T20:09:00.000-07:00

It's City Cottage, the dearest little doodle shop in Bowmanville and if you haven't been there you must make the drive!

Jenny is as darling as her shop and has a real eye for vintage loveliness. She also has a wall o' pillows that she makes by hand and sells for a song!

Check out her fabulous blog! Simple Casual Living.

Jenny has been an incredible supporter of my shop and so many others, thank you Jenny for the time and energy you put in to supporting women in business all across Ontario and beyond!
You're an inspiration to us all!
Alison xo

Coriander Girl will be at The Spring Wedding Show!

2011-04-05T17:55:00.000-07:00

For all those brides out there who are looking for something a little less conventional, The Wedding Co. is hosting The Spring Wedding Show at the Drake Hotel on Saturday, April 30 from 10am-4pm! Coriander Girl will be there so be sure to come by and say hello! You might even get to meet the amazing Catherine Lash!

Alison xo

So dear

2011-04-03T10:58:00.000-07:00

A lovely new friend of mine is responsible for this darling little piece. Her name is Virpi and her talents blow me away!

Les Pansements from Virpi Kettu on Vimeo.

Heartbreaking;>

Alison xo

Coriander Girl on the Steven + Chris show!

2011-03-31T20:10:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the lovely and talented Tim Lam, Coriander Girl caught a little air time on the Steven and Chris show. Well, a few of our arrangements did anyway! We can't take credit for all the flowers in Tim's home however, turns out he's also pretty good at floristry and usually does his own!

Thanks so much Tim for including us in your big day! Your home is beautiful, congratulations on doing the show!
Alison : >

It worked!

2011-03-29T12:00:00.000-07:00

Thanks for a lovely day.
; >

Let's try this again...Dear spring

2011-03-26T20:25:00.001-07:00

Dear spring,
Perhaps my last note got lost in cyberspace or went straight to your junk mail? I understand. I thought maybe if I wrote you again, this time with a little more urgency in my written tone you might actually respond this time. I'm not asking for much, a warm breeze on my face, a tiny whiff of fresh budding bulbs carried along by that lovely warm breeze and the melodic sounds of children laughing, people everywhere shedding winter layers as the days temperature rises. Come on now, I've been fair. I kept my end of the deal. Where were you? Where were you? I showed up and you never came, I waited and waited and I'm still waiting but no you. What about the forsythias? What about the pansies? We're all waiting and we love you so much that I guess we'd wait forever. Maybe that's the problem, you know how much we need you, you've got us wrapped around your finger don't you? Well, what if we headed north huh? What then, noone to bloom for then? And what's the point if there is noone to bloom for?
Think about it. You need us too you know. Next year Tyler and I might have to cheat on you and head south, that's right, we'll get our warmth elsewhere if it has to come to that.
I'm hopeful that you're just paying homage to Elizabeth Taylor by being fashionably late. I could forgive that.
I'll cheers your arrival no matter how long it takes.
Stubbornly, I'm forever yours,
Alison xo

Cookies for breakfast?...oh it's on!

2011-03-21T16:04:00.000-07:00

I've never met a cookie I didn't like but some are better than others I think we can all agree. Everything I thought I knew about cookies, what I thought were my favourites, the go to cookie after a rain fall, the coveted Girl Guide, Mr. Christie~it turns out you make 'okay' cookies. All of it, it's all been a lie.

When Janis of Elm Hill Cookies walked through my door last week carrying a box wrapped in bakers twine I had no idea I was about to meet or shall I say eat a cookie that would change my cookie eating experience forEVER.

I thought to myself, "Am I dreaming? Am I in heaven Auntie Em?" I think I cried tears. All I know is life will never be the same. Once you've tasted the finest double creme brie, havarti just ain't gonna cut it.

Like many of you sassy gals out there, Janis Smith took a leap of faith and dove head first into her very own business, a cookie shop in Oakville called Elm Hill Cookies. From the first bite you know you're eating a cookie unlike any other. She uses all natural ingredients and the taste says it all, no preservatives, artificial flavours, or colours and each cookie is hand cut and baked fresh daily. Her shop has a little milk and cookie bar, I know!! "Pour me another Charlie, make it a double, I've a had a rough day." I'd probably have a stool named after me if I lived in Oakville. I'd walk in and everyone would yell, "AL!"

Yeah, so cookies, they're my thing. If you're ever in Oakville take a seat at the bar and tell em' Al sent ya, you'll wobble home after last call and be glad you cut yourself off cuz that's a call no one should ever have to make.
And for the lovely brides to be out there, Janis does weddings! Favours for guests or a cookie bar at midnight can be just the thing to make your wedding go down in history. "The bride was stunning...and did you taste the chocolate sandwich biscuit with peppermint chocolate ganache filling?"
So, how long did that box of cookies last me you ask? About as long as it takes to say, chocolate sandwich biscuit with peppermint chocolate ganache filling. ;>
Alison xo

Herb Bouquets for Weddingbells!

2011-03-19T21:46:00.000-07:00

Thank you Weddingbells for including Coriander Girl in this awesome spread on herb bouquets!
Click here to read more!

Still feeling so incredibly blessed for all the gifts this life has given me. How are all of you feeling these days?
Alison xo

Quiet

2011-03-11T20:16:00.000-08:00

My heart breaks for those effected by the devastating tsunami in Japan today. I hadn't realized just how serious it was until much later on today when I saw the images on television. I'm feeling an over whelming sense of grief for people every where who are suffering. Friends of mine suffering through the pain of a parents illness with only days possibly left until he's gone, my moms best friend in New Zealand whose home was crushed in the earthquake a couple of weeks ago and she's lost everything. A business owner across the way losing her husband to an unexpected heart attack at the young age of 42.
So much pain and all I can do is sit here in my room quietly, doing absolutely nothing but trying to feel some of that pain for them.
We gotta hold each other tight.

Me me me Monday ; >

2011-03-04T15:02:00.000-08:00

My aunt's donkey, love his face!

Hi everyone!
So, it's time to set a little boundary for myself. I've decided, thanks to my dear love Tyler and caring bf Britty, I'm going to take one day, just one, that is all mine. On this day I am not going to work, no estimates, no e-mails, no nothin' and it scares the bejeezus out of me because I'm not sure I can actually do it but I think I have to try. I need to try and do a little less. The demand for me to work 24/7 is there but I think I'll be able to give more after I've given a little back to myself. You know how it goes, fill up your cup and give to others from the over flow. Right now I feel like I'm at the bottom of a well and oceans of water are pouring down on my head and I've got a teaspoon to bail myself out.
Do you ever feel that way? What are some of the ways you guys take care of yourselves?
Alison xo

Dear Spring

2011-03-01T08:32:00.000-08:00

Dear Spring,
Alison here. Do you remember me? It's been a while. Do you think you might do me a small favour and come around a little earlier this year. It's been an awful cold winter and my face hasn't seen the sun in months. I've been feeling a little sad lately too and could sure stand a visit. Remember how much fun we had last year? The bike rides, the long walks, the cute outfits. It can be like that again. I'll show up for you.
Forever yours.
Alison xo

More Coriander Bits!

2011-02-25T13:59:00.000-08:00

Just a quick check in from the shop! Hope you all have an amazing weekend!

Thanks for watching!
Alison xo

Thank you BlogTO!

2011-02-18T11:42:00.001-08:00

Coriander Girl was voted #4 of the top 12 florists in the entire city!!
Thank you so much BlogTO Click here to read the kindest review ever!

Alison xo

Valentines Day ruled!

2011-02-16T18:45:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who came through the Coriander doors this past week end. It was a most successful Valentines Day at the shop and my right hand Kerri, who we like to call Keriander, thanks Mischa:> was a rock star and helped pump out hundreds of beautiful bouquets. Each one as unique as the person it was made it for!
I arrived home to Belleville after a very long day at the shop to a room lit by candlelight and a picnic on the living room floor. Tyler surprised me with a cheese course, followed by a plate full of salmon sashimi~my absolute favourite thing and then if he didn't finish it off with home made chocolate dipped strawberries! What!? Life can't get any better than this!
Just last week Tyler and I celebrated Valentines Day early when we popped over to see our friends Edward and Amy, owners of the historic Merrill Inn in Picton. I needed more product for the shop, I can't keep The waupoos cider on the shelves! Well, one glass of wine turned into FOUR bottles and there we were raiding the kitchen of a five star restaurant like teenagers who just won the supermarket sweeps!(the chef just happened to need some teeth work done in Toronto so the restaurant was closed that night). We had the most beautiful cuts of organic beef, fresh green veggies and a cheese plate to finish it all off! I had to drive back to Belleville which of course meant that I couldn't drink more than a glass or two but Edward kept pouring and graciously offered us the keys to one of their luxurious rooms. This was one of those magical evenings where you go with it no matter what your obligations might be the next day. My list of obligations could wrap around the moon twice!

Thanks Edward and Amy for treating us like absolute royalty! What fun we had!
When was the last time you had an impromptu evening of pure bliss? Maybe you need to be more receptive if the opportunity presents itself and let go of the guilt that surrounds doing anything for yourself. I had one pang of guilt whilst lying neck deep in the jacuzzi and then let it all go down the drain with the bath water.
Alison xo

This life is good

2011-02-05T14:42:00.000-08:00

Sometimes we have to stop and appreciate where we are in this very moment.
I am busier, possibly then I have ever been in my entire life. I mean my eyes are crossing as I write this for gosh sakes. I'm commuting between home(where the heart is) and here where the shop is(and my other heart is). We're doing this so that one day we don't have to be apart. We're planning our wedding and I'm in the midst of helping twenty other brides plan their weddings and it's really amazing actually. I'll never be in this place again and I'm really trying to soak it all in. Today Coriander Girl did the flowers for Tasha and Tim, a couple quite close to my heart. She presented me with a gift when I dropped off her bouquets today, my very own rolling pin!; > Sometimes I grow so close to the brides I don't want to see their day come and go. Last week we did Candice's wedding at The Old Mill, and honestly, this woman could easily have been a life long friend but it's proximity that decides who we're going to connect with. If you never meet, well, you never meet. I can't help but believe in destiny. Tyler is just so my other half, like we were once a single entity that was struck in half by lightning and since have spent our lives finding our way back to each other. He's just home for me.

What if I'd never stepped foot into Poor John's restaurant? What if Tyler hadn't left Prince Edward County after highschool? What if my dad didn't ask his friend Hunter to introduce him to his friend Donna that night in the Harvey's parking lot up in Thornhill. What if my nana didn't want to move to Toronto from Hadenfield New Jersey when her husband got offered work here. Where would we all be now?

Can you tell I'm exhausted? When I start contemplating the universe and the 'what if's?' it's a dead giveaway.
I plan to drive home tomorrow night, curl up with my darling and sleep and sleep and sleep and kiss and sleep.
Tomorrow I'll be at The Workroom for The Love and Rummage trunk show. I'll be selling posies in apothecary bottles and other crafty things. Hope to see you there dear hearts.
Alison xo

Oh lil' doodles!

2011-01-26T17:12:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe how long it's been since I wrote last. It's like I've been away at sea or something. You've all grown up, gotten jobs, married, kids? I just got off the boat, the 'quote' boat and can't find my land legs. I'm sooooo busy! Isn't that great?!! I almost can't keep up! I know!!! The calls are coming in one after the other, you brides like me, you really like me! I'm thrilled and can't wait to execute some of these incredibly beautiful floral plans. Quote after quote flies out the door and I am beyond grateful for all my good fortune in trying to grow my wee business.
I'm super excited about a wedding we just did for the dear folks over at Mjolk. Congratulations on your marriage Juli and John! Their shop looked so beautiful when I drove by, the little stalker florist at 10pm, it was glowing with candle light, shadows of laughter and delight danced along the clean white walls.
It's going to be a good summer!
Good night and much love, missing my blogger community tremendously. In the words of George Costanza, 'I'm back baby!'
Alison xo

No more cookies for breakfast

2011-01-09T14:21:00.000-08:00

My darling ducklings, how are you all feeling? Is 2011 everything you dreamed it would be? See, I do this thing where I set myself up for failure. I preach on about no expectations, forgiving myself, being in the moment and so on and so forth and for the most part I believe it. 2011 hits and I'm already berating myself for the yoga I've yet to do and the pending cleanse I'm supposed to start. My business, my extraordinary love affair with flowers and antiques is getting 90 percent of me, Tyler is getting the other 10 and everyone else is wondering where the heck I've been. I tell them, "don't worry you'll see me when things slow down after Christmas." Ha! Slow down? This train is moving full steam ahead and if I jump off now I'm afraid I won't catch it again. I've worked hard and I'm finally starting to get things organized but I'm beginning to wonder if things will ever slow down. Poor baby, this is a happy problem like when you open the fridge and there are two cheesecakes.
So, I didn't start the yoga but there is a certain amount of zen in the focus I have to give my business. The cleanse starts tomorrow, and to my family, relax I can eat on this one. I'm only cutting out sugar and dairy and I'll be drinking oceans of water, which I never ever do! No wonder I ache! I'll keep trying to forgive myself, remain in the moment and let go of my expectations for 2011 and if I can't, well, there's always next year.

Alison xo

2011 Here we come!!

2010-12-31T12:43:00.001-08:00

I can honestly say that 2010 has been the most rewarding, thrilling, consistently happy year of my life. I am so blessed. If 2011 is even half as good as 2010, I am the luckiest gal in the land. Thank you to my dear friends and family and to my love Tyler for being such an amazing support team. What a year we had sweet love! Tyler just informed me on the phone this morning that 2011 is the year of the rabbit!! Can you believe it? If you recall our engagement story you'll understand why this is so terribly amazing. The year of the rabbit!!! Ha! The Coriander Dad just left the building. We spent a good afternoon together on this last day of 2010 in the shop. He showed up with Swiss Chalet while my friend Karen and Maisy were visiting so we all had a nip of that fabulous crack chicken. He drove off with his newest cd blaring Johnny Cash as loud as it would go, compliments of Tyler. Love you Diddy.

I'm not so much a fan of resolutions as I am of goal setting so here it is, my little list.
Aspirations for 2011

1. walk down the aisle as a healthy and relaxed woman
2. bake more
3. travel often
4. get on top of my accounting like a surgeon with a laser
5. sew more
6. take more pictures
7. finish our bathroom reno
8. eat better
9. throw more dinner parties
10. get our rabbit neutered (little doodle)
11. secure more weekly floral contracts
12. buy a really expensive hand bag and not feel guilty
13. play more Scrabble
14. start my yoga practise and stick with it
15. world domination or just my own show
16. breathe
17. do memory strengthening exercises
18. don't forget to do memory strengthening exercises.
19. make choices from my heart
20. show more gratitude for all the beauty that surrounds me
20.5. dance as much as possible

Happy New year to all of you my dears. May 2011 be your happiest and healthiest year yet!
I love this picture from September 2010. The day we got the keys and headed up the stairs to our first home.

Alison xo

Merry Christmas to all!

2010-12-25T20:47:00.000-08:00

Wishing you and your loved ones a happy and healthy holiday season!
Coriander Girl will re-open on Wednesday the 29th after some much needed r+r and maybe a healthy dose of t+s, that's tea and shortbread!
I'm gonna stay in bed or on the couch all day tomorrow. Who's with me!? Bed/couch days rule!
Alison xo

My very first centre fold!

2010-12-21T20:13:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd be in a bikini but instead my flowers have their very first centre fold in the very prestigious Toronto Life Wedding Guide! Coriander Girl is hangin' with some pretty big guns in this issue! Thank you to the amazing people at Toronto Life for including me in this super awesome floral spread. I am not at all capable of remaining composed with things like this. I let out a rather high pitched squeal tonight in Chapters and looked over to find five people grimacing over my delight, clearly they had been standing in lineups for far too long this evening. Well, I think there needs to be a serious dance party in the shop tomorrow people(Wednesday) if anyone feels like celebrating get your butts down here!
Thanks for your endless support dear hearts.
Alison xo

Even when there is no time

2010-12-18T21:09:00.000-08:00

Even when you're tired and there is no time because you have to pack and head back to Toronto to tend to your fledgling baby bird of a business, sometimes you've gotta stop and buy a Christmas tree from the local garden centre to surprise your love when he arrives home from a long days work.
Merry Christmas my darling.
Alison xo

Sir Fig Newton and the CG gift guide

2010-12-15T11:50:00.000-08:00

I have a shop mouse. I've decided to call him Sir Fig Newton because I think that's what I found him eating in the rubbish bin this morning. And, well, since he's here beside me, WE are very pleased to bring you Coriander Girl's gift guide. We went around the shop today taking pictures of things we think you and your loved ones should have this holiday season, okay that's not true he sat in a coffee cup while I did all the work but he does have this to say, "Listen here humans, anyone can go to big box stores and buy lots of super fun stuff but you aren't supporting local shops like this one that need your dollars to stay alive." Pretty profound for a baby rodent wouldn't you say? Am I using Sir Fig as a cheap ploy to get you to shop at my store...most definitely.

There he is the little doodle. And yes those are his arms splayed out like he's yelling, "stop, don't shoot!" Ah-mazing.

Honey Pie Hives and Herbals $12.50 gift bag!

The Merrill Inn's famous Waupoos Cider for that foodie friend of yours $10

A $25 bouquet is always a hit! Bring in a vase and I'll fill it for you!

$5 posies make a great inexpensive hostess gift, drop it in an apothecary bottle or milk glass vase for $10

Local artisan Frank Trotz makes beautiful vessels for that special someone from $45

The Sassy Lamb has made whimsical aprons for that gardening friend of yours $28

What a perfect way to spread joy with a set of three Philosopher Stones from $18

Other gifts to consider, Coriander Girl gift certificates, Erin Candela cards and botanical prints, Shira Leuchter letterpress Christmas cards, framed pressed flowers starting at $60 and Ella's Botanicals lotions and soaps.

So come on down, Sir Fig Newton and I implore you. Okay no, he's still not really participating but rather having a good go at a wheat thin I tossed in recently.
xo Alison

Coriander Girl in Weddingbells!

2010-12-14T09:28:00.000-08:00

My endless gratitude goes out to the lovely women of Weddingbells magazine for including me in this phenomenal Spring + Summer issue for 2011. A special thank you to Roseanne Dela Rosa~associate editor, Stephanie Gray~online editor and Alison McGill~Weddingbells magazine Editor-In-Chief. You ladies rock it.

I was delighted to have been asked to take part in this issue but then to see that two weddings that Coriander Girl did flowers for this past summer were also featured in the magazine, well that just took me over the edge! Congratulations to Jenny and Lee, your wedding was absolutely divine, a perfect mix of humour and class just like the two of you! Click here to see more of their lovely wedding pics by the incredible Joseph + Jaime on Weddingbells.ca. And a special congratulations to my friends Shira and Chris for their DIY wedding extravaganza, also hilarious people. How could you look that beautiful Shira and that composed after doing so many things yourself!? Of course Chris was there to help too but seriously, you guys are amazing. Click here to see their "Groovy kind a love" slideshow.

So, it's a celebratory day! Break out the wine and cheese and have a dance for me!

Alison xo

Fa la la la la la la la la

2010-12-12T18:24:00.001-08:00

It's that time again, so get your orders in early for centre pieces and holiday arrangements! Coriander Girl will be open late the week before Christmas Tuesday the 21st through to Christmas eve until 7pm! Can I get a fist pump and an air hump!?
Whoomp there it is! Shaka laka!
Alison xo

It's just one of those dancin' days

2010-12-10T10:53:00.000-08:00

So the weather outside is frightful but the shop is so delightful! Okay, not a soul has passed through the door besides the amazing Coriander Dad and my best friend Bitty. Lovely to see them and the soup my Da made was incredible but we're gonna need to dance this stress off people. Who's with me?!! Put on your favourite song and dance it off. I'm telling you I feel so much better from a good ol' fashioned shimmy and a shake.
Let's do this!

Ahhhhh, much better.
Alison xo

Coriander Girl on Style Me Pretty!?

2010-12-02T13:36:00.000-08:00

This summer Coriander Girl did bouquets and boutonnieres for the loveliest couple Alex and Lia. When Lia and I met I sort of freaked out when I learned her last name was Parsley, like fate had flung us together. Parsley and Coriander? I know! Anyway this beauty just sent me a note with a link to their amazing wedding featured on Style Me Pretty. I am a huge fan of this wedding site, it's an absolute thrill to be a part of this! Congratulations Alex and Lia!

Photography by Mango Studios.

Alison xo

A most perfect day

2010-12-01T10:50:00.001-08:00

December 1st.
Snow storm, cosy blankets, hot tea, almond brittle, a good book and a prolonged hug. All of this makes for a most perfect day.

The view this afternoon from our living room.
Alison xo

Coriander Girl's 'Best of' The One of a Kind Show!

2010-11-29T13:24:00.000-08:00

Well hey there folks! So, as promised, I wanted to share with you my One of a Kind finds! Every year I gear up and head down for one heck of an afternoon. Like a soldier, I have a strategy and not much can take me off course accept when a dear friend is working the show and I have to take an alternate route. And just like a soldier, I plan everything. I know where the exits are, washrooms and, of course, the food sampling isles. I don't linger in the centre of the isles I keep to the sides for maximum speed. I layer for comfort as the climate changes through out the day, drafts are expected. I enjoy the christmas show a lot and appreciate their attempts at highlighting new artisans. The only thing I can't stand is that I feel like a dried up little raisin when I leave no matter how much lip balm I've applied. I can't imagine how the vendors feel, they need to pump some serious humidity into that building, or perhaps we should all get a bag of intravenous fluid along with our coat check?

Okay, so here it is in no particular order and I have indeed left some great people out, especially the vendors I won't see who are coming midweek. I'm sure your list would be different from mine and that's what makes this fun!

Porcelaines Bousquet~I've been collecting Louise's pottery for years and I have an amazing story about that but for another blog entry. What you need to know is that she is now doing incredible things with porcelain and I recommend to brides everywhere registering for these beautiful pieces. Heirloom quality but still affordable...for now.

Sweet Truth~I tried this hand made gourmet candy at the show and I almost fell over. I am a candy girl and my expectations are very high. The almond brittle took me a back, like heaven was dancing on my tongue.

Bookhou~I just adore these folks and everything they do.

The Philosopher's Stone~Well, I carry these amazing decorative glacier stones in the shop because I'm such a fan. Each one is different and they make a perfect flower vessel.

Freshly Printed~These gals are amazing and I hope to carry their amazing textiles soon! They focus on using environmentally conscience materials and production methods which fits perfectly with Coriander Girls mission statement. Often using nostalgic imagery on their textiles and just another reason Coriander Girl loves them!

The Saltbox shoppe~Okay, these guys are right up my ally with their decorative rustic pieces for the home. I bought a ton of reclaimed wood framed pressed flowers and I'm just smitten.

Honey Pie Hives and Herbals~Another Coriander Girl vendor and don't we love these two? Bay and Gavin are busy little bees(pun intended) making incredible soaps, candles, honey, skin care, and teas. If you haven't tried their honey yet, come on down and get in line because these products won't stay on the shelf.

pi'lo~The sweetest home decor pieces that make me want to have a baby and a potential new vendor for Coriander Girl!

Tresnormale~Awesome t-shirts from Montreal. Every year I buy Tyler a bunch until the next show rolls around.

Miranda Britton~I love this jewelry, it's timeless and nature inspired. You can easily wear it out to your favourite coffee shop or put on that party dress and light up the town. Don't we love our versatile jewelry the best?

Schoolyard~Another amazing vendor of mine. As far as I'm concerned every single thing these girls touch turns to gold. Aprons, napkins, paper goods. Just brilliant and oh so environmentally conscious.

Christie Greyerbiehl. This woman is lovely and her art is even lovelier! Christie's work truly is 'one of a kind' and she should definitely be on your radar as one to watch. This local girl is doing great things and her light boxes of beauty would be an incredible addition to any home. Make sure to visit her website. Congratulations on a really beautiful booth Christie!

This was fun!
Peace out.
Alison xo

LoRo Block Party!

2010-11-26T16:20:00.000-08:00

The amazing ladies of LoRo(lower Roncesvalles) are organizing one heck of a fabulous evening tomorrow night, November 27 7-11pm! Come out and do a little shopping to support these super awesome businesses that need us desperately during the craziest construction ever! I've been invited by Rachelle from Hawk Eyes to join the group. I'll be selling little bouquets of love at her shop and I hope you'll come out and celebrate this important event with us. So if they're LoRo, does that make us QueWe (Queen West)? Just doesn't have the same panache does it?

Alison xo

Wedding fleurs!

2010-11-26T12:42:00.000-08:00

The dearest folks in the world, Jenny and Lee, got married this past summer and the incredible wedding photographers, Joseph+Jaime just sent over the amazing pictures of the flowers we did for them. Holla! Keep your eyes out for the next issue of Weddingbells as the word on the street is that this wedding will be featured. Way to go guys!

Alison xo

Rest my child

2010-11-24T22:24:00.000-08:00

Some much needed rest and relaxation was just what the doctor ordered, no literally the doctor ordered antibiotics and all. A little me time, a little Tyler time and of course a little doodle bunny time. But for tomorrow, it's back to the city for business as usual and to source product for the shop at one of my favourite events, the One of a Kind Show! I can't wait to report back with what I find!

Is Harry not the dearest doodle ever?
Next post I'll also have some wedding updates, I tried on dresses today!

Alison xo

Coriander Bits from Belleville!

2010-11-17T16:31:00.000-08:00

Alison xo

Liberate yourself!

2010-11-13T09:26:00.000-08:00

I just got a belated birthday card from a dear friend of mine who stated rather frankly that she's bad at birthdays and then wrote a list of other things she seems to procrastinate about often. I then replied, "well here's what I'm terrible at!"
In no particular order,
1. returning borrowed items i.e. books, clothing, dvd's. (note to friends~don't lend me anything and if you have, I'm so sorry)
2. mailing things (I've been meaning to send my friend Rachel out west a signed Donna Hay cook book for ten years!)
3. book keeping (I own a business people, this is no joke!)

How liberating though to admit the things I'm just not very good at!?
You try it!

Here's to our imperfections! 'Our flaws are what make us unique', says my friend Brittany who just popped in with a zucchini loaf! Apparently, I'm worthy of baked goods so I must be doing something right, although my social life has suffered greatly from the business. I'm just moving through life trying to do my best and I think it's okay if the occasional ball gets dropped. In some areas I think i'd score 100% so I shouldn't be so hard on myself and neither should you.
Let's be gentle on ourselves today and always. Forgive yourself for not sewing those curtains or mailing that letter, or mending that shirt, or sending that Donna Hay cook book or...or...or...

Harry only worries about the essentials, food and water and getting lots and lots of rest. I'm going to try that this weekend while I'm home in Belleville. Tyler and I are going to do as the rabbits do!

Alison xo

New Product~ Cards by Carol Rossel

2010-11-12T15:18:00.000-08:00

We're thrilled to add to our collection these one of a kind hand made beauties. Delicate, hand pressed flowers on delicious card stock by the lovely and talented Carol Rossel. Carol's floral wonders offer something completely unique for that special person in your life or frame one for yourself and hang it on the wall for less than the price of something you'd get from Hallmark.

Alison xo

More cleaning!

2010-11-11T08:26:00.001-08:00

I moved this cabinet to the front of the shop and it makes so much more sense. It wasn't being utilized well hidden in the back. It was great for storage but, 'nobody puts baby in a corner.'

Have a lovely Thursday!
Alison xo

Shop cleaning

2010-11-08T13:51:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I had an incredible urge to pull everything out and re-organize! I moved cabinets, I cleaned cranny's I had neglected for months! I feel great and the shop looks so much better! I'll post pics as soon as my camera is charged up.
It must be this time of year, knowing the deep freeze is coming and we'll be spending most of our time in doors it's a good feeling to purge, clean and organize all in preparation for the introspective months ahead.
I like winter for this reason, a chance to slow down, cuddle up with my noodle(that would be Tyler) and plan big moves for when the thaw comes!
And drink lots and lots of tea!
Alison xo

More Coriander Bits

2010-11-05T15:06:00.000-07:00

Introducing Coriander Bits!

2010-10-30T14:15:00.000-07:00

So, I've had this idea on the brain for months, it's nothing revolutionary but it will be unique because there is no other me, as far as I know. Clearly my production team is lacking because, well, you're lookin' at her. These are my first webisode baby steps, they're supposed to be rough, and terribly basic, but that just means they can only get better from here! The point is I'm finally doing it and I encourage all of you to tackle that project you've been kept awake over. Anything is possible!

So that's that! Stay tuned!
Alison xo

petit lapin

2010-10-26T18:14:00.000-07:00

Wedding flowers! One of my favourites this season.

And who can resist a little doodle bunny! My petit lapin!
How is everyone doing? Do you know what you're going to be for Halloween? My rule has always been it's got to be scary. So you can be Elvis but zombie Elvis. You can be a fairy but a dead fairy is so much better. It's a good rule. Oh, you're going as Lady Gaga you say? (insert the rule here) You get the idea?
And why not finish this post off with a little halloween inspiration, it's only the greatest video ever made!!
Dance with me!!
Alison xo

Community

2010-10-22T14:06:00.000-07:00

I love my community here in Parkdale. I think I've lived here almost five years but just celebrated my 1 year shop anniversary. The other shop owners and I have really bonded. My dear neighbour to the right just popped over and presented me with a glass of red wine. Now, I don't know about you but this is something that can really make my Friday. A baked brie might send me over the edge. My oldest and dearest friend Bitty surprised me with her homemade carrot soup the other day and it wasn't too long ago that dear Rachelle from Hawk Eyes dropped off the most fabulous flour-less chocolate cake from Terroni, I think I mentioned this but honestly, I still get chills when I think about that dessert. You have to go there and then go to Hawk Eyes and choose from a myriad of treasures Rachelle has carefully chosen to showcase in her beautiful shop.

Apparently a new flower shop has opened up on Roncesvalles not too far from me. You might expect me to worry a little but honestly, I wish them very well. There is enough to go around and I want them to succeed. We florists don't need to fight amongst each other it's the grocery stores we should be worrying about.
So, come to Parkdale, shop til' you drop! Especially on Ronce as it's suffering tremendously from all the construction. Buy local, resist the temptation to buy from the big box as it's a real detriment to the mom and pop shops you find so charming!
We need you!
xo Alison

Breathing it all in

2010-10-17T15:18:00.001-07:00

I'm beginning to think it might never slow down. This is an amazing thing and I know how fortunate I am to be busy.
And although I'm tired, I'm still loving every single second of it. I auditioned for the Marilyn Denis show yesterday. I stood in line with 950 other hopefuls just praying to get in front of the camera and keep my wits about me. I was surely wind blown and stiff from the cold but when I got to the tent I was greeted with such warmth from the ladies auditioning me that I was able to gather my troops and give it my best, well as best as can be wind blown and blue lipped. Perhaps they'll see that spark in me and want me as a guest to talk all things floral. It feels right. I've come to this place in life where everything seems to be aligning just so. I've been preparing for this for many years as an actress turned flower girl, it's kind of perfect. Coriander Girl crushes Frankie Flowers! Just kidding, we love that man.
Wish me luck!

Alison xo

Giving Thanks

2010-10-10T13:25:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving this year was so special. We were able to spend it with our families. First I enjoyed a traditional turkey dinner with the Coriander dad, my brother and rest of the fam at my Aunt Debbie's and the next night my mom and pop invited us along with Tyler's parents for a fondue extravaganza. Goodness I have a lot to be thankful for. I'm thankful for the abundance of love in my life, the success of Coriander Girl, my health and the health of those I care so much about and the lovely blessings that have been bestowed upon me this last year. Our engagement and buying our first home are definite highlights!!
I'm thankful for all of you out there in the blog world. It's such a thrill to be a part of this lovely community.
xo Alison

Autumn Weddings

2010-10-08T12:32:00.001-07:00

It takes a village. Endless gratitude for all of you that help me on a daily basis.
This lady needs a dance like never before! Who's with me!!!?
Click here doodles!

Alison xo

My blog my blog my blog, my lovely lady blog

2010-09-24T15:13:00.000-07:00

Hello dear darlings!
Where've you guys been? Oh it's me who's been away... I see. ; >
Well, the good news is that this Coriander Girl is getting some serious r and r. Tyler and I have been exploring our new community and we're falling madly, deeply in love with it. We're also in the early planning stages of our wedding and I'm blogging about it weekly for Weddingbells.
In other news, the shop is doing so well! My right hand woman Kerri, well-what can I say? She's breakin' necks and cashin' cheques. Well, maybe not breaking necks cuz that would be bad but she's busy being super awesome, just look at her beautiful work below!

And my dear friend Erin Candela(artist extraordinaire) is taking a few shifts here and there to help out and she is also ah-mazing! To know that the shop is in such good hands while I'm away, it's really very magnificent.
New product is arriving daily, some from vendors you're already familiar with like Ella's Botanicals and The Philosophers Stone- which, by the way, is such beautiful art. These stones are cored and then worked on for hours and my goodness they are stunning vessels.

And guess who's back in full effect... The Sassy-ist Lamb in town! The Sassy Lamb! Jaime Dobbs has done it again with her sweet little garden aprons for that special gardening friend of yours. Heck, buy one for yourself and I'll pay the tax on both of them if you mention this post.

It's my favourite time of year and I'm feelin' like dancin'!!! Who's with me?!!
Click it and kick it!

Alison xo

A life in balance

2010-09-17T19:22:00.000-07:00

I dream of a life in balance. We are inching closer with each passing day thanks to our decision to buy a home in Belleville. It has proven to be the best decision we've made together as a couple.

We move slowly here, we cook here, we walk along the river here, we are healthy here.

Coriander Girl needs me to be healthy and balanced. It's been an incredible year, the hardest working year of my life and I owe the business a healthier version of myself, a more rested and nourished, clear minded me.
Things are beginning to shift.
Alison xo

New shop worth visiting! Russet and Empire!

2010-09-11T10:47:00.000-07:00

My totally super rad friend Micah just opened a shop in the Junction called Russet and Empire! Congratulations lady!!!
I think she's an ambassador of cool, so you'll want to check out all of her amazing finds! She sells old and new and even has some exclusive soaps that can only be found at her place or ah-hem, Holt Renfrew!! She also has a super rad husband named Matthew and a super rad doodle baby named Oscar!
Coriander Girl wishes you all an exciting and successful first year and many more to come!
Also, best logo ever award goes to... Am I right!?
Alison xo

Movin' and Groovin'

2010-09-09T10:51:00.000-07:00

Tyler and I are officially homeowners! We are all moved in. I took all of last week off from Coriander Girl while Kerri watched the shop and we did some serious work on the new place. When you have an incredible team of family helping, you can sure get a lot accomplished. My heart is bursting with gratitude for Penny and Bill Hogan who stepped up to help us in so many ways and to my dear parents, Donna and Wally for all you've done, your generosity is so greatly appreciated. Trav and Natasha, for moving us down five flights and no elevator, we owe you big time! Coriander Dad, you know I'd sink without you. The loving support of our friends and family astounds us, thanks for all the well wishes these past couple of months. We are truly blessed and we know it.

Saturday night fever, I know I'm burnin' up!

Penny on a latter painting away, this sight is nothing new. I swear this woman doesn't stop! I didn't get a pic of my mom but she also had a hand in painting our place. Thanks beauties!

This little desk was built by my great grandfather for his daughter many years ago, my dad gave it to us for the new place.
The white quilt on our bed is from the lovely ladies at Feather Factory. If you haven't been yet, you must go.

Just a little teaser of some of the work we've done on the place. We feel so spoiled to have laundry in our home! We're used to lugging it five flights down with no guarantee of an available machine. My darling, after working a full day would often do mine as I was far too exhausted to go up and down those darn stairs. Our first night at the house we lay in bed giggling like school children. This home is quickly becoming a haven for us.

Blog 2 has just gone live today on Weddingbells. Click here!
Alison xo

Look what can happen in a year!

2010-09-02T19:06:00.001-07:00

It's official! Coriander Girl has been open for one whole year!! And today just happens to be the day my very first employee starts! And, if you can believe it, it's also the day I start writing for Weddingbells! September 2nd is a significant day in my life for some reason. And Yesterday wasn't too shabby either, Tyler and I finally moved into our beautiful new home. We still can't believe we're homeowners. One might think I'm bragging but guys, I need you to know just how stunned I am by all of these blessings. It really is true, that when you decide you deserve to be happy, things become so much simpler. I made a commitment to myself not long ago to seek out lifes pleasures and look what I found, PLEASURE!!
My heart is spilling open with gratitude to all of you for your unwaivering support and kindness. I started this blog when the shop opened as a diary of sorts for me to remember this experience. I never expected anyone to read it, let alone like it. I'm blown away that you like it! In school I was told constantly that my essay writing was far too verbose, like one giant run on sentence. I guess Mrs. Goyer didn't realize I was preparing myself for the blog world, but how could she? The blog world didn't even exist yet!
The second year in business is supposed to be better than the first, I'm not sure how that's possible. All I know is that if it's even half the adventure I had this year, it's gonna knock my socks off all over again! Come into Coriander Girl this Saturday and receive a $5 posy with any purchase!
I'm going to go dance this night away... in my dreams. Sleep well dear hearts.

Alison xo

Shop life

2010-08-27T14:08:00.001-07:00

It's a slow Friday here in the shop but that doesn't mean I've got nothing to do. I've been cleaning and re-organizing like a madwoman! The back of this place was starting to look like 'The hoarders." I hate clutter, and when it starts to accumulate I feel a bit nuts.

My list of things to do isn't getting any smaller because I forgot to add 'clean the shop' to the list of 'to do's.' That's how neurotic I am, I'll add something I accomplished to my list just so that I can feel the satisfaction of crossing it out!
Maybe I'll add these to my list,
1. don't mop today, you should rest after all the cleaning you've already done
2. don't worry about your mess of an apartment- you move in a week and you get to take most of that mess to Good will. Purging will feel so good.
3. don't worry about anything, worrying is a waste of time
4. do eat a cupcake, possibly two
5. and definitely dance like you've never danced before!
Click here
I'm dancing around the shop and laughing quite hysterically at this point!
Alison xo

I'm back baby!

2010-08-25T12:45:00.000-07:00

Okay, let's get on with the good stuff! Life is beautiful and there is much to report! Weddingbells magazine has asked me to write a blog for them! You can follow me for the next year as I plan our wedding, move into the heritage townhome Tyler and I just purchased together and run the flower shop. They think I've got some insight on this whole wedding thing having been on the other side of the desk for the last year, I say, let's do it!
As for the home we purchased, it's in Belleville. near both of our families. My dad is here in Toronto, so I'll be staying with him for three days a week and the rest of the week I'll be back home, sourcing antiques and enjoying the pleasures of the country. I was once quoted saying, "I'll never go back." It's amazing when you let go of the life you thought you wanted, you open yourself up to something so much more spectacular.

I love the country! I'm still a city girl at heart though so why not enjoy the best of both worlds? That's how I grew up, weekends and summers in Toronto with my dad and the rest of the time in the country with my mum and pop. I wouldn't change a thing. Oh, there were plenty of days I ran from the house and up over the hill screaming, "I hate this place." I'd sit up on the rock pile overlooking acres upon acres of patchwork green and golden fields and cry about how I wanted to be in the city where the action was. But it's on that rock pile my inner Anne Shirley was born. The romantic bits of me developed while strolling those fields, singing Debbie Gibson at the top of my lungs and yearning to be an adult. I was certain that I was gonna be somebody pretty great. When dad would come and get us for the week end he'd drive me along Queen St. and up Yonge to give me my city fix and before turning back for home I'd ask, "Can we go around one more time?" He always did. But, there remains a certain longing for a slower pace, a quieter existence. I'm looking forward to beginning again with Tyler. It seems our relationship has been one long transition. We moved in, I opened a flower shop, we're constantly on the road visiting family and shopping for antiques. We can't wait to stop and settle in.
I'll have more time to build the business when my new gal joins this one woman show and helps me with some of the load. September 2nd is Coriander Girl's one year anniversary, what a year it's been!
Stay tuned for new shop products and a whole slew of events you won't want to miss!

This is a pic of the living room inhabited by it's current owners. We get the keys on September 2nd and can't wait to get our hands on this little gem. My vision is to restore it to it's original charm. I'm hoping there's hardwood hiding underneath all that birch laminate. One can dream.
xo Alison

Thank you!

2010-08-23T18:00:00.000-07:00

I am so blessed to have such supportive friends and family and my darling Tyler. It's been difficult, starting over after my hard drive crashed a few days ago. It sounds dramatic but it really is a painful thing. I'm getting quotes to recover data that are so incredibly high, I have to wait and hope that the information is still recoverable in a month, maybe three. With the move and now planning a wedding there certainly isn't an abundance of money floating around. It's so strange to have a price on my memories. What are your memories worth to you? It would seem like a no brainer of course, no matter the cost, get everything back- but then there is this part of me that thinks I deserve to lose it all for being so careless. Does this make any sense or do I just sound ridiculous? Tyler did say a lovely thing to me after the hysteria subsided, "We've got so many good memories a head of us, don't worry hon." And dear friends have been sending me pics that they have of the shop, Rachelle, a friend and the owner of Hawk Eyes came by the morning after with a flourless chocolate cake from Terroni that could put a smile on a dead man and today Shira sent the photos seen here from her beautiful wedding that I did a couple months ago. I am re-building thanks to all of you, slowly but surely, and it's kind of freeing in a zen sort of way to clear and begin anew.

Tyler and I are in the midst of packing and get ready for a huge move. I can't wait to share more about this with you!
With endless gratitude.
Alison xo

The bad news first?

2010-08-20T09:34:00.000-07:00

My shop had a leak in the ceiling yesterday, I came in to find my computer sitting in water... "No, no no!" Panic, hysteria, denial, "it's gonna be okay"... Cut to Apple store, "It's not okay, everything is fried. But, at least you backed up. You did back up right? Okay, here's a number to a data recovery place, go and come back in an hour and we'll see what we can do. Jackie treated me to David's tea, she bought me Vanilla Oolong and even hugged me as I cried. Who are these people?
After an hour of weeping around Sherway Gardens clutching my delicious Oolong, visited my brother at American Eagle(he works there), window shopped and thought about draining my bank account on a Mark Jacobs hand bag to take the pain away, I made my way back to the MAC store. They greeted me as though I had a loved one in surgery. And I did. Two years of my life were documented in Iphoto. My budding relationship with Tyler, the birth of my little shop and all the work that we did to make it happen, and the hundreds of floral arrangements I've made since opening the doors, our baby bunny, the shop's files, clients, dreams, folders of inspiration, Adobe!! Programs, invoices, bookmarks, wedding inspiration. I didn't just lose a play list for shit sakes! My memories, are the souveniers of my life and the only thing I really own. I felt as though my heart was breaking open, call me dramatic but ask yourself, if you lost it all right now how would you feel? Do you need to back up? I actually believed I'd get to it, that it wouldn't happen to me. Even as I picked up my computer yesterday and drained it of 2 cups of water, I continued to use it and I believed it was fine.
But, there I stood in the MAC store with all of it's employees gathered around me at 9:05pm. They were closed but they were not rushing out the door with their coats on, they were there for me until the end, whatever that meant. And then Jackie spoke, "We all feel so bad for you so we've replaced your computer with shiny new parts, including a better hard drive and battery." My battery died months ago and that was a three hundred dollar fee I couldn't afford. Apple care doesn't cover water damage but they swooped in like little darling computer angels and rescued me from the depths of despair. I cried some more, thanked them endlessly and grabbed an external hard drive from the shelf, "Can someone tell me how to use this please?"
Please, back up your computer today. This happened to my dear friend a few months ago and I remember thinking, "Al, don't let that happen to you. There is too much to lose." But then I went and ate a burger or something.
If anyone has programs they'd like to share, I've got a clean slate and a shop computer I need to rebuild.
Alison xo