| Publication |
: |
Business World |
| Date |
: |
February 09 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
VALENTINE’S DAY
It is hard to establish which of the many Saint Valentines did what to woo his lady love several hundred years ago somewhere n Europe. But what is not as hard to establish is the fact that 14 February celebrated as his day every year has grown bigger than what that particular saint could ever have imagined. And yes, there is nothing saintly about it now. Perhaps surprisingly so, even in India where Valentine’s Day could easily have been dismissed as a western fad.
And it is an all-encompassing celebration of love. With an increasing population below 25 years of age, expressions of love are getting bigger by the day. At the same time, saying ‘I love you’ is no longer considered the exclusive preserve of a fresh-from-adolescence young boy or girl, with
grey-haired young-at-heart saying it with equal equanimity now. Still, younger hearts have led to younger aspirations, which are finding more and more ways of expressing love.
One of the most traditional forms of showing seasonal affection, whether during festivals or the New Year, is greetings cards. The advent of the interconnected- through-computers world dented things a bit, but cards whether the electronic or paper variety — remain one of the most popular
means of expressing emotion. Valentine’s Day, for one, remains one of the popular occasions for exchange of cards, so much so that even a snowballing global slowdown has done nothing to dampen spirits. Says Pramod Arora, joint managing director at cards and gifts major Archies, “It (the slowdown) is affecting everybody, but it is difficult to quantify loss… The euphoria at the retail end is high. Only final sales will tell how it is going to be.”
One of the reasons why a western concept of celebrating days such as Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day or Father’s Day has become popular even in small towns and metros is that merchandising and greeting card companies have realised that this can be a real cash cow. The only thing to be milked on such days is the emotion and the sentiment of the buyer. Little wonder, then, that the annual growth in the greeting card business was around 25-30 percent till two years ago. Though it has dipped to 10 per cent now, people still demand more and more expensive cards today. This year the most expensive card Archies has created for Valentine’s Day would cost Rs 900, informs Arora. The giant card has a piece of jewellery and a pen thrown in for good measure. Every year the price of the most exclusive card goes up by at least Rs 200, and in the Rs 300 plus bracket, there are numerous options available.
Among other traditional favourites are flowers, and the biggest in demand on Valentine’s Day are the ubiquitous red roses. Supposed to signify eternal love, they are the real hot cakes this day. Delhi-based Ferns n Petals alone sells flowers worth Rs 80 lakh online on Valentine’s Day, while the offline business runs into roughly Rs 4 crore. Overall, the Rs 400-crore business in India has grown 100 per cent year-on-year over the past three years with at least 35 per cent revenues coming from online sales, according to market estimates.
Lest one think the lovers’ fancy stops at cards and flowers, exchange of gifts, ranging from the usual teddy bear, stuffed hearts to diamonds, crystal jewellery, clothes and perfumes is de riguer. A plethora of gift items are designed keeping the lover’s heart in mind. From photo frames to candle stands and jewellery pieces, heart rules everywhere this day.
Interestingly, according to the old English concept of courtly love, it is the boy who woos his beloved on Valentine’s Day. So, while this may gall the feminists, most companies target the boy while designing gifts. Says Sukanya Dutta Roy, country manager for Swarovski India,
“Valentine’s Day is a unique platform for boys to express their emotions and Swarovski sees a lot of interest from men in its range during this time.” For ladies, who firmly believe in the equality of the sexes, sundry cufflinks, colognes and heart shaped ashtrays are available for gifting men, but the options are few and far between. A romantic dinner or a weekend getaway with some wine and chocolate can be the answer for those caught between the war of the sexes. The only thing, or rather people, to watch out for then would be the partypooper moral police!
| Publication |
: |
Business Wire India |
| Date |
: |
April 09 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
Ferns N Petals Opens its 90th Outlet in Kolkata
Opulence…Grandeur… Spectacular is the buzz in Kolkata at 7B Allenby Road, Opp. Forum Shopp 700020 with the launch of Ferns 'N' Petals new franchisee outlet “Boutique De Fleur”. The ne Kolkata is marked as a one-stop-shop for all flower requirements, be it for daily or occasional decoration in weddings, corporate events or individual parties.
Ferns N Petals’ - floral boutiques offers a vast variety of fresh cut flowers and unique flowe artificial & dry flowers, and an exclusive range of object d’art such as scented candles, candle s Italian glass vases, exclusive gift accessories with intricate carving, photo-frames, Designer gift incense range based on aromatherapy and potpourris, etc. These boutiques offer a vast var
flower arrangements and displays to match the distinct needs and tastes of the customer.
Ferns N Petals has kept itself abreast with a new technology and has been awarded as the best country in 2007 & 2008 respectively. It gives a facility to its client to order flowers and gifts an on phone or through our website www.fnp.in
Mr. Ashish Sarawgee, Franchisee of Ferns N Petals, Kolkatta outlet says that "We are aiming at o floral arrangements to our customers in an exclusive way. Our strength lies in product excellent and a dedicated team of highly experienced professionals. We shall give our clients quality p added services and above all personalized attention.”
Background of Ferns N Petals
Ferns N Petals originated the concept of lifestyle floral boutiques…
The Odyssey of Ferns 'N' Petals retailing commenced in 1994 with the establishment of its f outlet. The objective was to provide Indian consumers with high quality domestic and imported par with global standards.
Started as a single outlet, today, Ferns 'N' Petals has become the only branded retail chain of boasting of 90 outlets Nationwide and has revolutionized the concept of franchising in this sphere FNP’s own outlets FNP have a network of 65 strategic alliances in India for national deliveries a partners outside of India for global deliveries.
Ferns N Petals always has believed on the saying “The bigger the happier!” This philosophy m any other family, but it certainly applies to FNP’s family, which takes pride in its increasing numb outlets with an urge to reach its customers throughout the country.
The magazine PC world declared www.fnp.in as the best website on their Cover page. T appreciated for the range of products it exhibits in addition to the wide range of price to suit all the customer for any need.
| Publication |
: |
India Retailing |
| Date |
: |
April 09 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
Ferns N Petals' opens new outlet at Kolkata
Flower retail major Ferns N Petals' has launched its new franchisee outlet in Kolkata at 7B Allenby Road. The new FNP outlet in Kolkata is marked as a one-stop-shop for all flower requirements, be it for daily or occasional gifting, for floral decoration in weddings, corporate events or individual parties, according to a company press release.
Ashish Sarawgee, franchisee, Ferns N Petals, Kolkatta outlet, said, "We are aiming at offering the best floral arrangements to our customers in an exclusive way. Our strength lies in product excellence, innovation and a dedicated team of highly experienced professionals. We shall give our clients quality products, valued added services and above all personalized attention."
Ferns N Petals' - floral boutiques offers a vast variety of fresh cut flowers and unique flower arrangements, artificial and dry flowers, and an exclusive range of object d'art such as scented candles, candle stands, imported Italian glass vases, exclusive gift accessories with intricate carving, photo-frames, designer gift items, exclusive incense range based on aromatherapy and potpourris.
| Publication |
: |
Business Standard |
| Date |
: |
March 09 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
Ferns 'N' Petals to open 30 outlets
Delhi-based chain of floral boutiques Ferns ‘N’ Petals will add 30 more outlets in the next financial year to its existing 92 stores.
“Our growth plans have not been affected by the slowdown and we plan to open 30 more outlets by March 2009,” Pawan Gadia, vice-president, Ferns ‘N’ Petals, told Business Standard.
For the current fiscal year, the company is targeting a turnover of Rs 40 crore. Besides, the company is eyeing a business of over Rs 50 lakh on the back of Lok Sabha elections, including supply of bulk flowers and stage decoration, Gadia added.
The company procures 80 per cent of flowers, including roses, from within India, while 20 percent mainly orchids and tulips is imported from China and Thailand.
| Publication |
: |
India Report |
| Date |
: |
May 09 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
Ferns N Petals opens first outlet in Kashmir
Florist retail chain Ferns N Petals today said it has forayed into Kashmir by opening its first outlet in the valley.
"FNP has launched its first franchise outlet in Kashmir by the name of Petals Agritech.To cater to the flower requirements of valley customers,"the company said in a statement.
Inaugurating the store, Principal Secretary Agriculture Production Jammu and Kashmir Government said the initiative will have a"good impact on the budding entrepreneurs and develop a tempo among business community to compete with their counterparts outside the valley".
"FNP has 92 outlets in other states, 65 strategic alliances and 156 vendor partners outside India," Ferns N Petals Vice-President Pawan Gadia said.
| Publication |
: |
Franchise India |
| Date |
: |
April 09 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
Ferns `N` Petals inaugurates in Kolkata
Ferns `N` Petals, one of the leading flower retail chains in India, is all set to stretch its arms across West Bengal and is starting the journey by launching a new outlet in Kolkata. The new outlet that decors the current profile of the brand identifies as “Boutique De Fleur” and marks as one-stop-destination for all flower and gifting requirements, be it for a private function or a corporate event.
Established in 1994, FNP has now altogether 90 stores spread across the country. The brand has a network of 65 strategic alliances for national deliveries and more than 150 vendors’ partners for exporting the products in the global market. The brand beats many international names when it comes to floral decoration and designer gifts. Starting from fresh cut or artificial flowers, FNP also has an array of merchandise like scented candles, imported Italian glasses vases, exclusive gift accessories, photo frames and other designer gift items decorated with intricate art and craft work.
| Publication |
: |
Economic Times |
| Date |
: |
April 09 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
Plants and flowers: The ideal ambience
Enjoy stress-free living. There is an easy way of doing it. Make space for more greenery at home. Plants and flowers can help create the ideal
ambience to de-stress.
The Capital's famous Masjid Nursery in Khan Market has an array of choices for the nature lover. The large nursery showcases rows of plants amidst dense greenery. There are a lot of indoor and outdoor plants on offer that can match the space requirements of your home.
While the arica palm priced between Rs 300-3,000/plant and crotons at Rs 80/plant are quite popular as indoor plants, the phoenix palm — which can range between Rs 600 and Rs 10,000/plant — is preferred as an outdoor variety. Another fascinating plant is the silver dust that is priced at Rs 60/plant and shows off silver colour leaves.
Says Kamal Saini, director, Masjid Nursery, "Natural plants are the preference of one and all. They are good for the eyes, offer an environment change and bring greenery. The demand is more for flowers in winter, whereas in summers, the inclination is more towards green plants."
Bonsai enthusiast Sanjay Dham offers a vast variety of aesthetically miniaturised trees suitable for different climatic conditions. His company, Bonsai Temple, boasts of a large variety of bonsai. Dham, who is the director of the company, feels that bonsai is a living art and is preferred by many in contemporary living.
"It is a great way to de-stress and energise yourself. Moreover, they are permanent and can be used indoors as well as outdoors. A lot of people prefer owning bonsai for this reason as they are also easy on maintenance." The collection of bonsai starts at Rs 10,000 and can even go up to Rs 1 lakh or more.
Leading florist chain Ferns n Petals (FnP) also has a variety of indoor plants as well as lucky bamboos which are extremely popular among corporates. While indoor plants are in the range of Rs 500-Rs 600 per plant, the lucky bamboos can range between Rs 350 and Rs 2,500 per plant.
In potted plants, the Philodendron which has long arrow leaves is ideal for room decorations. Priced at Rs 599 per plant, they come from the aroid family so that the moss stick support can improve their performance.
Or you could have a dekko at the dracaena reflexa, a plant which has thin yellow coloured leaves which stand close to each other on a single stem. Short in height, these can grow tall up to 6-7 feet. But do take care as they can withstand some sunlight but the leaves can get scorched in extreme summers.
And if artificial plants and flowers catch your fancy for hassle-free maintenance, Delhi-based store Sia Home Fashion offers a wide range of potted plants. Priced in the range of Rs 550 (for single stemmed roses) to Rs 20,000, these look extremely life-like with artificial mud, stone and even moss created for the look.
Says Koel Dutta, brand manager, Sia Home Fashion, "Potted plants and flowers are great décor for interiors as well as for adding a glam touch in your balcony or garden. For the spring-summer, a pleasant mix of armfuls of softly shaded tulips, light mimosa and elegant magnolias work out extremely well. There is a noticeable trend among the customers towards buying artificial plants as they are low maintenance and at the same time add a dash of liveliness in your living room
. They are ideal for those who love plants and flowers but do not have the luxury of time."
Whether it's natural or artificial, plants add a feeling of warmth to home decor. Bring them home to liven up your life.
| Publication |
: |
Bhaskar |
| Date |
: |
Septemeber 07 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
Business Bhaskar
| Publication |
: |
Femina |
| Date |
: |
June 07 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
MEETA GUTGUTIA
Director of the Ferns'N'Petals group, Meeta has a passion for good interiors. Part of the company which does interiors and wedding floral decors, she loves to design floral jewellery for brides and guests at weddings.
| Publication |
: |
First city |
| Date |
: |
June 07 |
| Region |
: |
National |
CHATAK CHAAT Janakpuri District Centre, opposite satyam cinema; pacific mall Ghaziabad; satyaniketa, opposite Venkateswara College, Dhaula Kuan, Ph; 32481827 three new outlets offering all things chatpataa, from your Kolkata Puchkas to Bombay Bhel Puri to Kolkata Jhalmuri; Ragda Chaat to Lucknavi Special Tikki; Kabuliwala Chatapatta Aloo to Rajsthani Kanji Bada. Even some great summer coolers, desi style; Masal Kanji, Chuski and Nariyal Malai Shikanji. All priced between 20 and 40 bucks
| Publication |
: |
Gurgaon Explorer |
| Date |
: |
17th June 07 |
| Region |
: |
Gurgaon |
Puraani Dilli ki chaat at Chatak Chaat The best part is that you don't have to go to puraani dilli for it. From pindi chole bhature to everybody's favorite dahi raj kachori ki chaat from lucknow ki special tikki to bambaiya ragda, it has on offer a wholesome chatkeeli chatak chaat treat. Chatak chaat is a scrumptious, quick, hygienic & fun chaat counter that gives our fied as hell, unhealthy neighborhood burger a run for its money. Add to it the USP of its clean counter; hygiene and the warm welcome and you have the unique chatak Chaat legacy come alive in all its lip smacking splendor and promise.Reccomendations go for the Kolkatta Puchkas, Rajsthani Dahi Bada, chatpattta chana, Latpatta Khatta aloo dum, chuski and top it up with Nariyal Malai Shikanji. Iam loving it111
Rupali dean is a well known Food consultant, a graduate from L.H.M, started her career with Leela Kempinski and has projects like Lodi, the Garden Restaurant, Buzz at Saket, PVR's Gold Class lounge Bangalore etc to her credit.
| Publication |
: |
Mid Day |
| Date |
: |
04th June 07 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
Flavours of purani Dilli at Chatak Chaat
Chatak Chaat unfurls the authentic flavours of purani Dilli chaat. From pindi chhole bhature to everybody's favourite dahi raj kachori ki chaat, from luchnow ki special tikki to Bambaiya ragda, chatak chaat promises dilliwallahs a wholesome chatkeeli Chatak Chaat trat.
A scrumptious, quick, hygienic and fun chaat counter that will give you all from dahi bhalla, palak patta papdi chaat (Rs. 35), Kolkata (Rs. 20), Chatpata chana and much more.
You can also try thrist quenchers like Masala kanji (Rs. 25), Chuski, Khus Shikanji (Rs. 25) or Masala cola from their summer menu.
The ethos is as simple as experience every Indian grew up with; enjoy chaat, but not at the nukkad. Enjoy it in a style and ambience that you feel at home in. Add to it the USP of its clean counters, hygiene and the warm welcome.
Shalini Gera, F & B Manager, Chatak Chaat says, Chatak Chaat summer menu has been designed keeping in mind the change that our eating habits go through in summer months. The focus is on beverages that keep your body cool without compromising on the chatpata taste of Indian street food. We have made a menue which does not depe nd on frying as a method of cooking as is mostly deployed for preparation of chaats and yet satisfies the tastebuds.
| Publication |
: |
Mid Day |
| Date |
: |
21st June 07 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
It's flowers power
Flowers are nature's perfect cration and a vibrant metaphor of life. Flowers fuel passion, unlock creativity and inspire fashion in our day to day life. So take a look at these artificial beauties that will last forever.
Proteas: available in pink and green, this flower possesses a strong sscent. Use it in your home or office for its fragrance.
Price Rs. 400 per steam
Carnations: Carnations express love, fascination, and distinction. Available in yellow, pink and white, each colour holds a different connotation.
Price: Rs. 150 per steam
Lilies; It's one of the most bizarre shaped and exotic of flowers. These are available in red, pink yellow, peach and shaded pink.
Price: Rs. 225 per steam
Hydrangea: Available in purple, light blue, light yellow and dark pink hydrangea are the best flowers as gifts.
Price: Rs. 350 per steam
Available at: Valaya. FNP Fluer, B-6&7, Safdarjung Enclave Market, New Delhi
| Publication |
: |
The Franchising World |
| Date |
: |
15th June 07 |
| Region |
: |
National |
Ferns 'N' Petals comes up with IPTO
With a re-branding exercise underway and a diversification into the unrealated food retail sector, the Rs. 60 crore Ferns'N'Petals company plans to warrant an initial public offer for two years down the line. Evolved from a simple florist's shop to a well known franchise brand, Ferns'N'Petals is also diversifying itself into food retail. From a nondescript florist shop in New Delhi's South Extension in 1994, Ferns'N'Petals has been able to transform itself into a brand recognized across the country. Ferns'N'Petals became a known brand and the only organized player in the segment. However, Ferns'N'Petals has managed to use the franchise route to its advantage. Currently, it has 50 outlets nationwide with an additional network of 65 strategic alliances for national deliveries and 156 vendor partners overseas for global deliveries.
| Publication |
: |
Franchising Focus |
| Date |
: |
June 07 |
| Region |
: |
National |
Kiosk's derivation
It is hard for a small format business to sustain risk because of the small scale of operations. A thorough research of the field should be carried out before starting a kiosk business. The area of activity should be such where returns come fast. There should not be any credit period. Immediate billing businesses like F&B, retial and service can be best for kiosk format business. Franchising minimizes risk because every risk and its consequence are calculated. Negating the risk factor Gupta said, "if the kiosk does not work out for the franchisee, we buy back the kiosk, but the selection being so strong there are less chances of failure and the rist factor is very-very low for a franchisee." Risk depends on the kind of mall and the franchise deal that a person is able to negotiate through a prospective location. The rent in any good mall is very high and has to be negotiated, as the amount of money in terms of rent is very crucial,: say Pawan Gadia VP, Ferns'N'Petals.
| Publication |
: |
The Hindustan Times |
| Date |
: |
9th October 06 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
Petal Power
Flower shopping gets a facr-lift with the launch of a designer boutique
Flower boutiques just got a sprawling new address with designer JJ Valaya and entrepreneur Vikaas Gutgutia re-opening Valaya FNP Fleur at Safdurjung Enclave on Friday.
Targeting up-market customers who are looking for international service and high quality product, the store, part of the Ferns'N'Petals chain, is spread over 3,000 sq. feet across three levels.
"the concept introduced eight months back called for a re-launch as the earlier store at MG Road got demolished. I want in to be made into a lifestyle label, a separate brand in itself, said designer JJ Valaya.
Designer Leena Singh, who was present at the re-launc, added, JJ has a distinct style statement that is reflected in his selection of flowers. It is a fine blend of elegance, substance and emotion.
Vikaas Gutgutia of Ferns'N'Petals said, "The response has been fantastic so far and we will be adding two more floors by Diwali But that is not all, as Gutgutia added, We want this to be a one-stop-shop where people can shop for everthing related to a wedding be it flowers, trousseau or just about anything.
Adding glam quotient to the evening, ex-model Ruchika Malhotra, in a stunning black tube top, said, It is a very convenient place as a large variety of flowers and accessories are available under one roof.
Also seen at the launch was choreographer Anu Ahuja sporting a embrioidered Chinese collar black top, designer Ranna Gill, Danseuese Sharon Lowen and fashion academician Vidyun Singh.
| Publication |
: |
The Pioneer |
| Date |
: |
10th October 06 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
Fresh Flowers at your sweetheart's doorstep accompanied by live music. If you thought this could only happen in movies, think again because Delhi now has one of its kind luxury flower boutique.
Valaya Ferns'N'Petals Fleur is a joint venture of ace designer JJ Valaya and entrepreneur Vikaas Gutgutia, owner, Ferns'N'Petals.
You have worn Valaya's lable, decorated your home with his accessories. Now be rady to adorn your flower vase with flowers bearing his mark too.
The massive (three storeys) boutique recently launched in the Capital houses exotic flowers from across the world.
You'll find exotic Protea, Sallix willow, Ginger lilies, Helicornia and usual roses, lotuses with unusual foliage and greens with and interesting line of festive trousseau. The trousseau boasts of beautiful packaging, ribbons, flowers and jewelry and vanity boxes in reds and golds.
The boutique initially launched at MG Road is being re-launched, said Gutgutia. When quizzed about Valaya's role, Gutgutia said, He has an impeccable sense of style and aesthetics which he has lent to the boutique Valaya seemed quite excited about the venture. It's going to be one of its kind in India and you can make a statement," said he. Adding, flowers are the most natural form of expression whether you want to say, I love you or I'm sorry.:
| Publication |
: |
Mid Day |
| Date |
: |
18th October 06 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
It was one of those rare events that, despite being hosted by renowned names, didn't evoke a great response. The few celebrities who made their presence felt at the do didn't really succeed in making it a big event.
Acclaimed designer JJ Vallaya and entrepreneur Vikaas Gutgutia of the Ferns'
N'Petals group evolved India's first luxury flower boutique lable; VLAYA.FNP Fleur at the plush Safdarjung Enclave.
Pioneer of the chain Vikaas Gutgutia said I wanted to do something special to the world of flowers, which wasnever heard of before. In India, the flower industry is very unorganized, I want to take flowers to a height and organize it like any other industry.
Gutgutia, who says that the shop is different from regular Ferns'N'Petals outlets, said that apart from India, the flowers have been imported from flora rich Amsterdam, Australia and Thailand.
On his part Vallaya said, "I had seen such concept in Hong Kong and I got inspired by it. Flowers are nothing less than arsenal to me, which I have successfully used many a times. They have always worked for me. They are so powerful that they can bring a smile to every face.
The duo also plans to launch new stores at Dubai, London and Hong Kong to give wings to the business that started in 1994.
Vallaya the mastermind behind many celeb wardrobes, allowed a sneak into his future projects which include a store for handbags and accessories and discussions that seem to be in full swing for luxury boutique hotels.
While a small orchestra was set up to crate the perfect mood for the evening, continuous rounds of snacks and drinks ensured that the guests did not stop munching.
| Publication |
: |
The Asian Age |
| Date |
: |
21st October 06 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
Pretty packaging packs in punch Think pearls, gota and block-printing and what you get is a beautiful array of designer bowls and candles neatly wrapped to create the perfect Diwali gift. And when it's got to do with the people of the capital who like to flaunt what they have, the glamorous look is never passé.
Magnificence, that has been innovatively packaging gifts for many years, had a lot of thinking to do before they decide to go in for colored beads with nets to tone down the look for corporate, and step up the use of colored sequins, embroidered goats on dupion silk for personal items. The news is that stones and kundans are totally out. "We are emphasizing on colores like gold, silver and red, unlike pinks and maroons. Last year was about stones and fabrics, but this years was about stones and fabrics but this year it's back to floral designs and wood,: says Shalini Beriwal of Magnificence.
The trend has changed from fewer floating candles to more candle stands and trays which could be used later for decorative purposes. Therefore, you see glittering candles, candleholders, tea light candles, designer platters and trays with candles. People are gifting wine and confectioneries instead of the traditional mithai so packaing them involves more than just paper.
Kapil Khurana of Entertainment Design Company, who did the cards for famous weddings like Vikram Chatwal and Priya Sachdev, as well as designers like Rohit Bal and
Tarun Tahiliani, says that good packaging is not just about glitter paper but making it feel special.
We have imported most of our wrapping paper from Europe which comes with a textured feel and looks amazing. Plus, we haven't gone in for the regular gold wraps and instead opted for metallic ones with interesting motifs, says Kapil.
Many fashion designer have also jumped on the bandwagon of designer packaging. The lattés to join the fray is JJ Valaya who tied up with Ferns'N'Petals to launch a new line. Deepti Uppal of Ferns'N'Petals admits that with the increasing interest shown by people who want something more they have to plan much in advance for the festive season. The present trends according to her are dominated by two hues blue and green. But then we have all the trappings of glitz with silver and golden bows, mirror work golden lace and flashy colours, she says. This Diwali, people have gone in for fabrics like organza and organdy to define the look of their packets.
We have introduced hand-woven fabrics for a discerning few along with the usual twigs, crystals, buttons as well as pictures of animated characters for kids, says Deepti.
| Publication |
: |
The Indian Express |
| Date |
: |
22nd October 06 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
The latest in designer ware
As Indian fashion finds itself competing with global players, it is becoming evident that sharp cuts need to be combined with a sharper business sense. In a bid to diversify and build brands, Indian designers are now saying with flowers, homeliness and cafes.
Ravi Bajaj's Business plan is ridiculously simple the more people go out t eat the more they need clothes to go out in says the Delhi based designer. So he gives them a place to wear his dapper clothes to.
Four storey of the 5,000 square feet Ravi Bajaj Menswear Emporio at GK1 display his sharply cut formal wear, sportswear and Made in Italy suits, while the top floor opens out into le café, an open air istro, overlooking a sprawling neem tree.
What the business savvy Bajaj has worked out quicker than other Indian designers is that a label needs more than sharp cuts. It takes a tad more than a few seasons of prêt to build a fashion empire. A café takes him one step closer to being Giorgio Armani the emperor himself. We have very little time left. If we don't do it in the next two to three years, well be nothing more than glorified tailors says Bajaj. The designer's haste is understandable. Foreign brands are rowing for Indian shores at top speed and for Indian designer to survive, they need to diversify. The two-year old café is part of Baja's empire building exercise.
International fashion moves the same way. A classic example of recent times is Tom Ford, who made Gucci a multi-billion dollar empire from a bankrupt fashion house. Now, a few years after leaving Gucci, the celebrity designer is using the same formula on his eponymous label which includes menswear, beauty products, fragrances, sunglasses and more.
When foreign brand invaders first landed about five years ago and started exchanging their monogrammed goodies for a large chunk of the new found Indian Disposable Income Desi designer contemplated forsaking zardozi and hired business managers overnight. They tied up with watch makers and shoemakers, began churning out branded chocolate or started designing interiors. Some took off, but none were smashing successes. Indian designers will be able to spread their wings only when they do relevant products with professional companies. Who cares for designer chocolates asks Tarun Tahiliani.
Now designers are getting ready for round two. Competitively priced prêt lines are already on racks (Tahiliani's TT and RockyS' Noir) but the trend is to experiment with products outside fashion. And homeliness are turning out to be the next big ticket. Sabyasachi Mukherjee has tied up with Bombay Dyeing, Shane and Falguni Peacock will launch Peacock Home soon, Manju and Bobby Grover unveiled M&BG Home at the Wills India fashion week in August and rocky s has just pulled back the curtain from his home line, Duvet. For most of these designers, their homeliness have imbibed their individual design sensibilities. So M&BG Home has the Delhi Based duo's textured, almost spiritual feel; Duvet has feminine touches like crushed silk frill, much like Rocky's flirty clothes, while the Peacock's line is of course, a patchwork of colours, feathers and animal prints. And Mukherjee's beloved block prints are all over the Bombay Dyeing bed covers.
A home line is a natural evolution for any fashion house, as fashion al most always extends itself to lifestyle, says JJ Valaya. His home brand, Valaya Home, is 11 years old and does no more than 14 to 20 special commissions a year. He has a roster of unnamable private clients who order his soft furnishings and signature tapestries.
Valaya has also translated his love for flora (he grew up in a army home with sprawling lawns) into an extension of his brand with Valaya.FNP Fleur. The store selling exotic imported stems was five months old when it was torn down in the 1 MG Road demolition in February. A three storey replacement will open soon. Valaya says the reactions haven't been tremendous, but for these past few months, phone transaction kept the store less venture afloat.
Indian designers are also finally waking up to what chanel and Yves saint Laurent discovered decades ago; The fact that couture is a parasitic mistress. She needs someone to feed her expensive tastes, and that's why designers have to produce prêt accessories and other products that make the registers go ka-ching.
Accessories make counter survive, but it's counter that makes the accessories sell, says Mukherjee. His five year plan includes rolling out watches, underwear, shoes, jewellery and maybe menswear. The Kolkata-based designer is as business savvy as they come. Even for someone who has turned a Rs. 20,000 investment into a company with a turnover of Rs. 10 crore in five years, Mukherjee doesn't dream of funding all these future projects himself.
Like his tie-up with Bombay Dying his plan is to diversify by co-branding. That means tying up with companies which ensure that the scale of production can be upped over the years. I don't want to do a one time thing. If the line does well, the company will book you next year too, he says.
Other have well thought out game plans as well. Tahiliani, The Big Daddy of Indian Design, has in the past done the interiors of SUVs and styled a few Great Indian Weddings, but gave it up as it was too to time-consuming.
He's currently considering a jewellery tie-up Sunglasses and other accessories are also allied to this, but I consciously want to stay in men's and women's fashion as of now, he says.
That's not the case with everyone. Valaya's going to branch out into boutique hotels. The Peacocks are also planning shoes and accessories and are going to start advertising in the international editions of vogue and Elle. Rocky's clients will soon smell great with his signature scent, and in 2007, handbags with the designer's tag may be on shelves. So many companies have been tying up with Indian designer and cashing in on their names. Its about time we did it ourselves, he says.
But the ones that are doing it them selves face some problems. Indians, especially women, aren't brand loyal. They want value for the buck says Bajaj. He says buyers are hesitant to pick up his shoes as they know they're not made in his factory. I have to wait till the woman who buys shoes for Rs. 2,000 progresses to pickle up a pair worth Rs. 10,000. Louis Vuitton buyers aren't going to come to me. He smiles.
Bajaj gives the market four to five years to mature. When it does, can we expect some designer wall paint or specially designed mouse pads?
| Publication |
: |
Cosmopolitan |
| Date |
: |
October 06 |
| Region |
: |
National |
Ferns'N'Petals Whether it's a birthday, an anniversary, or a simple hi', nothing says I care' like the beautiful arrangements from Ferns'N'Petals. Want to get more flower than just a regular bouquet of blooms. This brand will take care of all your special need, including midnight deliveries, rows of house warming flowers, flowers with chocolates, mithai, or sealed with a cake. Even better news; you can send these gorgeus arrangements to loved ones not only all over India, but all over the world, too. Just give them a 4-hours notice.
Must - Buy the designer bloom category of stunning blooms.
Visit: 6, Basant Lok, Vasant Vihar, Ph: 26144792,26156178,9350739077/78
| Publication |
: |
Hindu Business Line |
| Date |
: |
10th May 07 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
Of Flowers and Franchises
Ferns 'N' Petals has evolved from a simple florist's shop to a well-known franchise brand, and is even diversifying into food retail.
Say it with flowers seems to be the axiom Managing Director Vikaas Gutgutia has been following for over a decade. And he seems to be walking the talk, considering that from a nondescript florist shop in New Delhi's south extension in 1994, his company Ferns 'N' Petals has been able to transform itself into a brand recognized across the country. With a re-branding exercise under way and a diversification into the unrelated food retail sector, Gutgutia expects the Rs. 60 crore company to grow big enough to warrant an initial public offer two years down the line.
The initial ex years were full of struggle. Though I came from a family that was in the flowers business and hence was familiar with the ropes, some litigation and bringing in the right business partners took time. The next six years from 2000 onwards were the growth phase we became a known brand and the only organized player in the segment. Besides, to expand into different related areas we constantly kept sloughing back profits into the company, says Gutgutia, making it amply clear that there are two philosophies he follows. He prefers to use internal accruals as against debt or private equity to grow or diversify, and second, he likes to go in alone sans partners.
However, Ferns 'N' Petals has managed to use the franchisee route to its advantage. Apart from some shops, the rest are franchised, so much so that the chain has received awards for its models in both 2003 and 2004. It currently has 50 outlets nation wide with an
additional network of 65 strategic alliances for national deliveries and 156 vendor partner overseas for global deliveries.
It successfully introduce the concept of lifestyle flower boutiques in the country, turning them into designed air-conditioned outlets that offer fresh, artificial and dry flowers and a vast range of objects d'art such as scented candles, candle stands, glass vases and gift accessories, among others.
Till now people were used to the road side flower seller, but with our designer look we introduced a whole new flower buying experience, says Gutgutia. To take the business forward, he also introduced an online flower retail service that helped grow the business further.
The company then diversified into the events segment, taking orders for exclusive designing for weddings and corporate functions. And seeing that this had a substantial market, it went one step further. It tied up with couturier JJ Valaya of the House of Valaya to start a luxury flower boutique, Valaya.Fnp Fleur in October last year. At the launch, Valaya had said, My personal belief in unbound luxury lifestyles led us to lend our brand and aesthetic strengths to this venture and more importantly, in Vikaas and FNP, we found an able and committed organization to associate with.
Gutgutia explains the association; I saw opportunity knocking at our door. There was a certain segment of the wealthy that wanted high quality and exclusive designs. We are planning to have more such designer outlets, some even outside India. Along with the Valaya signature collections of floral installations, Valaya. FNP Fleur will also commission leading international floral designers including those in Singapore and Belgium to design and showcase a special line of floral art. However, to bring in the volumes, next on the cards are flower carts, many of which may even replace the pholwalla on street corner. The flower cars would be branded, mobile and in all likelihood be offered to the local street flower vendors to run. However, for this plan we need all our franchise partners to agree and that will be discussed during our annual franchisee meeting in a few months, he says.
From a phoolwalla, I'm going to turn into a chaatwalla, says Gutgutia in jest, detailing his latest retail foray into the street food segment. Christened Chatak Chaat, it plans to take on the Western fast food segment of burgers and pizzas. It will offer all the traditional favorites from Chhole bhature and dahi raj kachori ki chaat to aloo tikki and bambaiya ragda. Chatak Chaat attempts to take street food into a hygienic chain which will offer its food in four formats. There will be standalone outlets, kiosks, carts and mobile vans that can reach a consumer's door step on request. We are formatting our business right now, though we already have a pilot project running. To start with we plan to have around six outlets in Delhi, two in Mumbai and three in Chennai. The food will be standardized like other chains, with the recipes bar coded and premixed he says.
Chatak Chaat is also planning to foray overseas. The logic? If burgers and pizzas work here, why not puchkas and paani puri in markets where the chicken tikka masala and kebabs are a rage? Another great idea from FNP, but of courseit remains to be seen if the company is able to build another brand from its food business.
| Publication |
: |
The Hindu |
| Date |
: |
12th May 07 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
Floral Jewellery
Valaya, FNP Fleur, India's only luxury flower boutique lable is offering an array of floral jewellery to celebrate Mother's Day. You can gift floral ring, necklace, earrings, bridal jewellery, theme based jewellery. Open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. prices start from Rs. 100 onwards.
| Publication |
: |
Gurgaon Explorer |
| Date |
: |
20th May 07 |
| Region |
: |
Gurgaon |
Chatak Chaat promises Gurgaonwallas a wholesome chatkeeli Chatak Chaat treat. Located at Sahara Mall and Spencers at MGF mega city, the ethos is as simple as the experience every Indian grew up with enjoy chaat, but not at the nukkad. Enjoy it in a style and ambience that you feel at home in. Add to it the USP of its clean counters, hygiene and the warm welcome which is integral to any enterprise promoted under the FNP umbrella and you have the unique chatak chaat legacy come alive in all its lip smacking splendor and promise.
Lending their vision and creative retail expertise to the unorganized street food sector, fernsNpetals, led bny the very enterprising Vikaas Gutgutia has introduced their new masaledar venture chatak chaat, now made available by the visionary group in a more modern, hygienic and evolved environment of a fast food restaurant Chatak chaat skillfully replaces the yankie burger with yummy puchkas and raaj Kachoris. Chatak Chaat creates a comfort zone laced with an authentic local desi flavor to retail the most preferred street foods. Creative & competitive packaging, a much evolved taste palette and a modern ambience ensure a unique experience. Vikaas Gutgutia, MD Ferns'N'Petals Chatak Chaat explains, The vision is to turn Chatak Chhaat into a national retail food chain offering unmatched experience of savoring authentic flavors of local Indian street food in a very international and modern setting. The idea is to take the experience to a national retail level where Indian families can take home Indian fast food; A healthier, tastier and better treat which is also deeply rooted to their taste palette. From the new summer menus Recommendations go for Bombay pani puri (Rs. 24), Palak Patta Papdi Chaat (Rs. 35), Matar Raj Kachori chaat (Rs. 38), Kolkatta Jhyalmuri (Rs. 22) Ragda Chaat (Rs. 25) Dahi Puchkas (Rs. 24) Kabuliwala chatpatta aloo (Rs. 25), Rajasthani Kanji Bada (Rs. 25), chuski (Rs. 20) and Masal Kanji (Rs. 25) Go light at coco Palms.
It's the best place for a light meal or snack. Start with Lassi or buttermilk, just the thing for summers. Replete with ornate pictures of south Indian food, that adorns the walls and the aroma of fresh hot Vadas ET all impresses when one first enters. Located at the Central Arcade, DLF Phase II and DT city center this south Indian eatery is always filled with people at any given time. The south Indian thali here is a steal and honestly it is good enough for tow. Many couples order one between the two. Other popular dishes on the a la carte menu include Idly Vada mix, Dahi Vada, Dahi Idlis, Lemon rice, paneer masala butter dosa, upma and the rice of the day. End on a sweet note with Kesari Bhath or kulfi, both are absolutely decadent to the core.
| Publication |
: |
Gurgaon Plus |
| Date |
: |
12th May 07 |
| Region |
: |
Gurgaon |
Chatak Chaat Take your mother for a chaat treat this monther's day and trust us shell love you for it. The best part is that you don't have to go to purani dilli for it. You could go to Sahara Mall or MGF Mall. From pindi chole bhature to everybody's favorite dahi raj kachori ki chaat, from Luchnow ki special tikki to bambaiya ragda, it has on offer a wholesome chatakeeli chatak chaat treat. Chatak chaat is a scrumptious, quick, hygienic and fun chaat counter that gives our fied as hell, unhealthy neighborhood burger a run for its money. Add to it the USP of its clean counters; hygience and the warm welcome and you have the unique Recommened to go for the Kokatta puchkas, Rajsthani dahi bada, chatpatta chana, samosa chan chaat, latpatta khatta aloo dum, chuski and top it uup with nariyal malai shikanji. Your mom will sure love it!
| Publication |
: |
The Hindu |
| Date |
: |
12th May 07 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
Just for Mom
Mother's day
Pamper your mother this Sunday
It's time to tell you mother how special she is. Of course, there can be nobody more special than a mother in one's life. As Mrs. S. arora, principal, Bharti Public School, Swasthya Vihar, says, God could not be everwhereso he made Mohter. So celebrate and pamper her the berst possible way. And there are umpteen number os ways to do that. Tabula rasa the trendy restaurant aat squrare one destination has delightful ideas for pleasing you mom. She will be greeted with a glass of complimentary champagne or a choice of red or white wine along with gifts. A beautiful Ferns'N'Petals flower arrangement will be presented to her at the table and a special song will be played for her. Even a photograph of you and your mother will be taken and placed in a wooden frame as a memento of the special day. And that is not all there will be a dessert with a personalized mother's day message unit.
And for this special day, H2O plus brings gifts sets for you to pamper your mom.
The gifts are ideal skincare products to feel good on the special day. Which includes Mukti Mask Gift set to nourish the skin for different needs throughout the season; Deluxe Mariel Collection which has this luxurious collection of our signature fragrance Mariel, a sea of natural essences, exotic fruits, sensual floral and rich botanical.
VLCC had a special evening saluting celebrating women achievers who are also great moms.
The gifts are ideal skincare products to feel good on the special day. Which includes Mkti Mask Gift set to nouish the skin for different needs throughout the season; deluxe mariel collection which has this luxurious collection of our signature fragrance mariel, a sea of natual essences, exotic fruits, sensual florals and rich botanical.
VLCC had a special evening saluting celebrating women achievers who are also grat moms. And, artd'sinox rand from Jindal stainless, has chosen flowers to touch your mother's heart this Mother's day. With purchase of every flower vase as a tribute to you mother art'dinox brand from Jindal Staianless, has chosen flowers to touch your mother's heart this mohter's Day. With purchase of every flower vase as a tribute to your mother art dinox will gift the flower decors decors absolutely free!
Fortis La Femme is organizing a program for pregnant women this Mother's day in conjunction with celebrity kids portrait studios, a US based photo studio which has recently entered the Indian market with its flagship store in Delhi. The program includes cookery demo of three healthy dishes and tips to avoid back ache plus a complimentary portrait of the pregnant woman. There are free hamprers too.
Atrium Hotel on Surajkund Road is organizing a complimentary brunch only for mothers in Panoramic it's multi cuisine restaurant from 12.30 p.m to 3.30 p.m.
| Publication |
: |
Today |
| Date |
: |
11-13th May 07 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
Mamma Mia! She's Cool, She's My Mom
As the World Mother's Day draws near, city raises a toast to the new mom, who can double as a glam career woman any day.
The new age mom has broken all stereotypes of a mom. She is sassy, sexy and balances her life as a mom and as a career woman with ease. And she makes a pretty picture too. As the World Mother's Day draws nears may 13 celebrations in honour of the new mom and woman are being he id all over the city. On Thursday, TODAY goes around town catching up with hot moms, having a good time with their children.
At Ferns'N'Petals, model Nayanika Chatterjee indulges her 4 year old daughter Nayantara who is busy choosing flowers for her mom. Like any other mother Nayanika Can't stop talking about Nayantara. The model says that the day her daughter gives heran impromptu hug to her, its is mother's day for her. I don't believe in the concept of celebrating one day as Mother's Day, she adds.
Considering that the model is busy with one or the other fashion show, how does she fulfill her duties as a mother? I schedule my work according to her needs. But during the last fashion week, I could not meet Nayantara for 10 days. So, when I finally met her, she locked me in a room so that I may not go anywhere. I keep Nayantara's Pictures and videos close to me when at work, she says.
Nayanika confides that for two days after the birth of her daughter, she went into postnatal depression. She was very tiny and skinny with spiky hair. I used to keep staring at her and think what has come out of me. After two days, I started getting emotional about her an my motherly instincts arose. And since then. She is my priority.
| Publication |
: |
Hospitality |
| Date |
: |
01-15th Septembner 07 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
Ferns'N'Petals to invest in hostess academy, food outlets
Floral enterprise Ferns'n'Petals has announced its plans to expand its business scope with a focus on the hospitality sector by launching a hostess academy speaking about his plans, Vikaas Gutgutia, its managing Director, said, we will launch a professional hostesses agency that will aim at training anchores, hostesses, MCs presenters, artists and front desk operators for the huge demand arising from hotels, exhibitions, product launch functions, and other promotional activities.
FNP will impart soft skill, body language and personality grooming to registered participants by professional from various franternities. We have even roped in model Nayonika Chatterjee to groom students, (The company has already set up Chatak Chaat street food counters at various places I the capital this year to tap the large unorganized street food segment) informed Gutgutia. The first academy is set to open in the capital soon, which will be followed by two more in Mumbai and Hyderabad each. An investment of Rs.50 lakh has been outlined for the initial phase we would like to have one such agency in every metro and tier II cities in future, he added.
FNP is also focusing on the food sector with a retail food chain. The company has already set up chatak Chaat street food counters at various places in the capital this year to tap the large unorganized street-food segment. It is expanding this venture with a plan to establish 500 such counters in the country over the next two years. We are going to invest roughly Rs 4 crore for the Chatak Chaat concept of street - food Gutgutia said. The company plans to accrue finances internally as well as through private equity.
| Publication |
: |
Franchising World |
| Date |
: |
Septembner 07 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
Ferns'N'Petals touches 52
Ferns'N'Petals has reached the count of 52 in its outlets in India and is now the biggest chain in terms of outlets and also in terms of its website sale for flowers and gifts with such a vast range of offers which may get delivered on the same day in any part of the country. Packages and offers differ according to the approaching festivals, which makes it easy for the working people to buy gifts or flowers for their loved ones and send them to express their feelings for the same.
| Publication |
: |
Economics Times |
| Date |
: |
19 Jan. 07 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
Vikaas Gutgutia, MD Ferns'N'Petals group, loves to look at vast expanse of flower filled farm house from his first floor office. FNP Gardens doubles up as the company's head office. It looks beautiful in bright sunshine in winter mornings, he says. That's an understatement coming from a man who has built a Rs. 100 crore business around flowers. In the last 13 years, FNP has ventured into event management and e-commerce with flowers being integral to each.
That's set to change. Vikaas has now entered a brand new world of Chatak Chaat, a street food chain launched recently. He also plans to enter hospitality training and manpower business. Considering Gutgutia's flowery background, this is quite a diversification for FNP. Food is my second passion and I see a great business proposition in it he says. Soon, FNP is adding a professional Hot / Hostesses academy. The academy will train and engage young people as hosts and hostesses in scores of events that are organized round the country throughout the year. I promise these youngsters better remuneration than those of airhostesses, he declares. And train them without any cost. These two new businesses along with core flower retail business will help FNP touch Rs. 500 crore in revenues by 2010 end, says Vikaas. The common thread in all these ventures is that they are all dominated by a huge unorganized sector. My experience with people and ideas from them has led me to believe that one can bring an order in such unorganized industries. All one has to do is to identify need gaps, he says.
Vikaas grew up in a small house surrounded by 2 acre chrysanthemum farm in Vidyasagar, a small town ship on the Bihar-West Bengal border. He used to see his grandfather often travel to supply flowers to New Market retailers in Kolkata. Vidyasagar had the right climatic conditions for floriculture saw nothing in a big way Dealing with flower shops in Kolkata was difficult and catering to them from a far off place threw up pricing and quality issues. Gutgutia family was forced to set up it's own retial outlet in Kokata in the late 1980s. Things remained that way will Vikaas took charge.
He set up his first fresh flower retail outlet in Delhi 1994, Ferns'NPetals. Ppular perception suggested that a florist shop can't be run without personal supervision. That meant you couldn't have more than one shop, he says. Vikaas determination to prove the perception wrong kept him going. With the inauguration of the second outlet in 1995, the ordeal to get the model right began. He first tried out working partners who managed the outlet on a profit sharing basis while FNP made investment. The idea was to ensure greater degree of involvement form the working partner. We were looking for people who we could blindly trust, but it wasn't all that easy, says the FNP founder.
For every three outlets we opened, only news successful, he recalls. Vikaas then thought of hiring professional, but shelved the idea even before he could start. First of all, there was no formal education in floriculture and no well educated person wanted to dirty his hands in this business, he says.
Soon he realized that as the number of FNP outlets increase, his overheads would also go up. And scaling up operations all by himself would become difficult, so FNP turned to franchising option in 1999. By then there were six FNP shops Franchising model worked wonders and within three year, FNP chain expanded to 28 outlets and moved to other cities. Today, there are 60 FNP stores across 26 cities.
FNP went in for backward integration and go into fresh flower wholesaling through a division, Plus Marketing. While that helped getting rid of intermediaries and shave costs, it al;so opened a alternative revenue channel. Seeing that people have started spending great deal on events, Vikaas quickly added three different businesses. Plus events & Wedding address hotels and top end clients for flower decoration during the event and currently contributes as much as 38% and 15% percent of FNP's total revenues respectively. FNP soon began using its website to pouch revenues and tied up with major portals like rediff.com, bazze.com, indiatimes.com, sify and indtv.com for e-tailing some 100 products ranging from fresh and artificial flowers to cakes to combo gifts and sweets to name a few.
Two years back, he added designer line. He roped in fashion designer JJ Valaya to create a signature brand of top end floral boutique, Valaya FNP Fleur, something on the lines of Armani Fleur in Singapore. Valaya FNP Fleur is being used to make an in iteration foray into flower retailing. To begin with, the company has opened a model boutique in Delhi and plans to open three overseas boutiques in Dubai, Singapore and London starting this year. We aim to make our designer floral boutique a destination shop in each of those markets, Vikaas says.
Today, he is a florist, a wedding planner and a hotelier all rolled into one, who is being wooed by many investors. He is slow pedaling on that and says he would consider and IPO by next year once he has put his entire business portfolio in place.
| Publication |
: |
Today |
| Date |
: |
10th 12th March. 06 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
Ferns'N'Petals. CEO vikaas Gutgutia has some gyaan for the wannabe gardener?..
Power to the flower!
Spring is in the air and flowers are the season's best ambassador. Blooms that can be grown locally in the home gardenr's domain are rose, tulip, gerbera, carnation, lily, marigold, rajnigandha and dhlia. Different types of flowers require different types of soil, temperature and water levels. For instance, tulips must be planted in well-drained and airy soil. Jasmine grows well in light soils. A muddy soil would be best.
Hybrid flowers tend to be superior quality flowers since they're derived from two dissimilar parent blooms. These are genetically enginnered in such a fashion that their off-spring displays the most desireable qualities of both parents. A trained breeder can carry out this feat. This also explains why hybrids are more expensive.
Don't confuse the quality of farmed flowers with that
"Blooms that can
be grown locally in
the home gardener's
domain are rose,
carnation, lily marigold,
gerbera and
Rajnigandha".
Of homegrown ones. Farmed flowers are healthy looking and stay longer than garden flowers. This is because commercial growers use fertilizer in the right proportion (ie right nitrogen phosphorus-potassium or the NPK ratio), the right soil mix, and water with the required pH value.
Happy gardening! May a thousand blooms bloom!
| Publication |
: |
Times of India |
| Date |
: |
March 07 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
They are fresh, cheap and smell like heaven. They are also the latest options in jewellery doing the elite rounds
Say it with Flowers
They don't quite match up to the sparkle of a diamond or the snobbery op platinum. But here's a new option to make you stand out at a monsoon bash: Garden fresh floer jewellery.
At Amrish Pershad's work shop in New Friend's Colony, it can get frosty while preparing real flower jewellery. We maintain a temperature of 10-15 degrees Celsius. As the water content is low in cut flowers, the tips easily turn black explains the 34-year old who caters to an elite client list.
What began as an experiment during his sister's wedding is now getting him 35-40 orders every wedding season.
His team of 35 can shell out necklaces, chokers, brooches and waistbands in an hour's time from fresh cut flowers.
Floral ornaments are a style statement, says Pershad, who mixes chunks of flowers with Swarovski and coloured beads, and charges upwards of Rs. 2,500 for his effort. Known for his set designs in Mira Nair's Monsoon Wedding, he has also provided floral accessories to fashion designers Ashima and Leena.
To avoid last-minute hassles, it is advisable to keep the basic structure ready, says Meeta Gutgutia, director of Ferns'N'Petals. To expand the company's floral reach, 32 year old Gutgutia launched flowery embellishments two years ago.
They add a natural look and come cheap. The only drawback is that this kind of beauty lasts only for a day, says the South Delhi Polytechnic alumnus, whose floral accessories have been worn by models in designer JJ Valaya's shows.
Brides preferred real flower jewellery at the mehandi ceremony, she says. Even children like coloured flowers.
At a birthday party recently, boys wore wooden bracelets while the girls flaunted the Hawaiian look, she muses. Her designs come for Rs. 500 and above, depending on the choice of flowers.
Gutgutia has also tried her hand at artificial flower designs for summers, orchid and carnations work best. But with a longer shelf life, crystal berries, Olive and Cosmos willows make for a beautiful set, says Gutgutia, who is ready to set up her studio, Desire, at Safdarjung Enclave. So the next time you set out for a party, the flower shop next door can prove helpful in more ways than one.
| Publication |
: |
HT SUNDAY MAGAZINE |
| Date |
: |
7th October 2007 |
| Region |
: |
New Delhi |
In full bloom The festival season is upon us and if market sources are to be believed, the trend is veering towards the traditional. But we haven't given up exotic blooms totally
The year was 1981 and the artist Yash Chopra. One of Hollywood's most romantic songs sequences unfolded in the movie Silsila as Amitabh Bachchan
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