Thorn & Petal

Thorn & Petal Fresh Flowers, Plants, Gifts, Self-care

A sneak peek into what Valentine's Day looks like here at Thorn & Petal.🌹Awareness for the businesses we support is on a...
02/07/2025

A sneak peek into what Valentine's Day looks like here at Thorn & Petal.🌹

Awareness for the businesses we support is on a lot of our minds, now more than ever. In times like these, we feel so much gratitude for every person who chooses to make a purchase with a small local business. Every order means so much to us, and we show our gratitude through the care we put into each and every bouquet.

Big box stores may make life convenient, but small local shops are what give a town life. Paris is a true example of this. We are part of a community of businesses that have so much uniqueness and character to offer.

Shop small this Valentine's Day. Give a gift that makes a difference to our little shop, and also makes your partner smile!

A fresh snowfall, soft white and blush blooms—pure winter wedding magic! ❄️✨ So happy to have been part of this beautifu...
02/05/2025

A fresh snowfall, soft white and blush blooms—pure winter wedding magic! ❄️✨ So happy to have been part of this beautiful day.

Congratulations to the newlyweds! Wishing you a lifetime of love and joy. 🤍🌸

Today’s Victorian Language of Flowers is SnowdropsMeaning: Consolation and HopeOrigin: one of the first flowers to bloom...
01/12/2025

Today’s Victorian Language of Flowers is Snowdrops

Meaning: Consolation and Hope

Origin: one of the first flowers to bloom in the depths of winter,the bright white snowdrop is a sign that spring and a turn towards better, easier days is coming. Victorians loved this unique flower but warned against bringing it into the home. If brought indoors, it was considered a bad omen, perhaps even a harbingers of death.

Pair with carnations for a broken Heart or mistletoe to indicate endurance through difficult times.

The snowdrop flower carries deep and varied meanings, symbolizing hope, renewal, and rebirth. As one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, snowdrops often push through the snow representing resilience and the promise of new beginnings.In addition to their broader symbolic meaning snowdrops hold special significance as the birth flower for January. People born in this month are said to embody the qualities of hope, resilience, and the ability to adapt to change.

For many people snowdrops are a quiet reminder that no matter how tough things get there’s always hope for something better ahead. Just like these delicate flowers pushing through the cold, hard earth, we can find strength in the most unexpected places. They show us that even when it feels like we’re stuck or caught in the darkness of winter, growth is happening beneath the surface. Brighter days are on their way, even when they’re hard to see in this chaotic world.

Next time you need a moment of peace, take a walk outside and see if any snowdrops are making their way through the snow. Let them not only serve as a distraction to calm your mind, but as a gentle reminder of the resilience they represent. These small blooms are a beacon of hope, a whisper from nature that renewal is always just around the corner.

Today’s Victorian Language of Flowers is AmaryllisMeaning: PrideOrigin: The Victorians associated amaryllis with pride b...
12/30/2024

Today’s Victorian Language of Flowers is Amaryllis

Meaning: Pride

Origin: The Victorians associated amaryllis with pride by virtue of its grand, tall stalks topped with bright blooms that towered over the other flowers. Amaryllis, with its often leafless stems, is also known for its withstanding drought. It is a strong and hearty plant, too prideful to perish under harsh conditions.

Pair with hydrangea to indicate boastful pride or clematis to show the recipient should be proud of their cleverness.

The amaryllis is a striking flower that symbolizes pride, strength, and determination, standing tall among other winter blooms. Its Greek name Amaryllis means “to sparkle” perfectly capturing the festive spirit when glitter seems to adorn everything around us. Often gifted during the colder months, the amaryllis’ ability to bloom in winter is a powerful reminder of resilience and perseverance.

The amaryllis can also bring warmth and joy to any home, especially in shades of orange or pink. With the right care, its bulb can live for up to 75 years making it a meaningful gift for any occasion.

What makes amaryllis even more special is its versatility. Beyond its beauty as a blooming plant, it’s also a unique cut flower that offers endless possibilities for creativity. You can hang it upside down and fill the stem with water for a captivating display or slice the stem into decorative strips, adding an artistic touch to a glass vase. If you choose to keep the bulb intact, it becomes a living gift that keeps on giving, growing year after year.

Whether used in floral arrangements or as a long-lasting plant, the amaryllis is a symbol not only of beauty but of enduring love, making it a perfect gift for both special occasions and everyday moments.

Can we take a moment to talk about how absolutely AMAZING my customers are? 💕 You’re not just supporting my shop—you’re ...
12/24/2024

Can we take a moment to talk about how absolutely AMAZING my customers are? 💕

You’re not just supporting my shop—you’re showing so much care for me and my family. You check in on my business, my kids, and even whether I’m getting enough rest (I’m working on it, I promise!). You bring cookies, the sweetest cards, the warmest hugs (seriously, the hugs! 🥰), and, of course, my favorite… red wine 🍷. You make sure I’m spending time with my family, staying sane, and taking care of myself. Your kindness and love remind me every day why I do what I do. You’ve truly become the most incredible extended family, and I’m so grateful for each and every one of you.

Wishing you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas filled with joy, love, and all the little things that make this season so special. 🎄❤️

Today’s Victorian Language of Flowers is Thistle Meaning: MisanthropyOrigin:It’s no surprise that the spindly, prickly t...
12/15/2024

Today’s Victorian Language of Flowers is Thistle

Meaning: Misanthropy

Origin:It’s no surprise that the spindly, prickly thistle is associated with misanthropy. Its meaning also has biblical roots: in Genesis when God cast Adam and Eve out of Eden, God told them that thorns and thistles would grow from the land as part of their punishment.

Pair with Rosemary to indicate you see through someone’s facade or Pansy to show you’re thinking of a friend going through a bitter separation

The thistle, a proud symbol of Scotland, appears on the nation’s coat of arms embodying values of strength, tenacity, and resilience. Its sharp thorns and ability to thrive despite efforts to remove it reflect the Scottish spirit of overcoming adversity.
According to legend, the thistle became Scotland’s national emblem after a Norse army attempted a surprise attack in 1263. A barefoot Norseman stepped on a thistle, alerting the Scots to the invasion. This story highlights the thistle’s role as a protector, much like the values it represents.

The thistle holds significance in various cultures. In the Basque region of France, it is hung on doors for protection, believed to guard against evil spirits. In pagan traditions, the thistle was thought to repel thieves and offer protection. The flower also carries deep meaning in Celtic cultures, where it represents devotion, bravery, and strength.

The thistle’s meaning can be interpreted in various ways, from a symbol of disloyalty to one of courage and tenacity. Its ability to endure and outlast most cut flowers reflects its strength and beauty, qualities that align with its role as a symbol of endurance and resilience.

At Thorn & Petal, we see the thistle as a metaphor for life itself, just as each flower balances the softness of a petal with the sharpness of a thorn, every experience offers both moments of tenderness and challenge. How we perceive these moments defines our strength, much like the thistle that flourishes even when faced with adversity.

Today, we are celebrating the one-year anniversary of our shop—a milestone made possible by you, our incredible communit...
11/24/2024

Today, we are celebrating the one-year anniversary of our shop—a milestone made possible by you, our incredible community. What a journey this year has been. There have been ups and downs, but the joy of serving this community has made every moment worthwhile.

From the bustling holidays of Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Mother’s Day, to graduations, weddings, funerals, baby showers, and everyday celebrations, we have poured our hearts into creating designs and curating products that add a touch of beauty to your lives. Along the way, we have had the privilege of sharing in your most personal moments—your laughter, your tears, your heartfelt memories. In doing so, you have become more than customers to us—you have become family.

As we step into our second year, we are filled with gratitude and excitement. We cannot wait to meet more incredible people in this community, to share your stories, and to become part of even more cherished moments. Whether it is a small smile or a life-changing celebration, we hope to continue adding a little extra beauty and love to your days.
Photo by . Thanks for your visit on Jingle Bell Night🧡

Today marks the end of an unforgettable wedding season as we celebrate our final wedding of the year! 💐✨To all the incre...
11/23/2024

Today marks the end of an unforgettable wedding season as we celebrate our final wedding of the year! 💐✨

To all the incredible couples who trusted us with their most cherished day during our first year of business: thank you. You’ve shared your dreams, your love stories, and your unique visions, and we’ve been so honored to bring them to life.

From elegant bouquets to heartfelt ‘I do’s,’ every moment this year was a reminder of why we do what we do. Here’s to the laughter, the happy tears, and the creative magic that made each wedding so special.

As we close this chapter, we’re filled with gratitude and excitement for what’s to come. Cheers to love and a successful first season, and to an even more magical wedding season ahead! 🥂💖

Today’s Victorian Language of Flowers is Chrysanthemum Meaning: Condolences Originality: Autumn-blooming chrysanthemum a...
11/17/2024

Today’s Victorian Language of Flowers is Chrysanthemum

Meaning: Condolences

Originality: Autumn-blooming chrysanthemum are frequently used in funeral and placed on graves in many countries in Europe, including France, Belgium, Italy and Spain. This ritual may derive from the practice of decorating graves on All Souls’ Day, a Christian holiday occurring in early November, when many blooms are difficult to find. The chrysanthemum is thought to be token of comfort during a time of grieving.

Pair with willow for a friend in grief or with gladiolus for a broken heart

Chrysanthemums, or mums are flowers with deep symbolism and a rich variety of meanings. In the United States, they generally represent friendship, happiness, and well-being. However, in many European and Asian cultures, chrysanthemums are closely tied to mourning and funerary traditions.
Chrysanthemums come in many colors, each carrying its own meaning. While the flower is commonly associated with friendship, honesty, and loyalty, red chrysanthemums symbolize love and passion, while yellow ones are linked to sorrow or neglected love. White chrysanthemums often represent purity and truth.

Beyond their symbolic meanings, chrysanthemums are also believed to bring joy and good luck to a home when displayed in a bouquet. Their vibrant colors and striking appearance make them a popular choice for both celebratory and reflective occasions. Despite their widespread use, chrysanthemums are sometimes overlooked or seen as a more basic flower. However, this flower comes in many shapes and sizes from soft, round blossoms to bold, spiky petals offering a diversity that mirrors the complexity of human emotions. Just as people are unique in their personalities, chrysanthemums, too, offer a variety of types, each waiting to be appreciated for its individual beauty.

In the end, chrysanthemums are more than just flowers; they are a reflection of the different stages of life, from joy and love to sorrow and remembrance. Whether you’re celebrating a friendship or honoring a loved one, chrysanthemums carry a timeless meaning that transcends cultures and personal experiences.

Our mini bouquets have been a hit in-store, and now you can grab them at  too! ✨ They’re the perfect little add-on to pa...
11/15/2024

Our mini bouquets have been a hit in-store, and now you can grab them at too! ✨ They’re the perfect little add-on to pair with your coffee and treats—a true treat for your heart. ❤️

Today’s Victorian Language of Flowers is MarigoldMeaning: GriefOrigin: When clouds roll in or the night falls, the marig...
11/03/2024

Today’s Victorian Language of Flowers is Marigold

Meaning: Grief

Origin: When clouds roll in or the night falls, the marigold curls inward and lets it head droop. When it opens again in the again in the sunlight,its petals,wet with dew, appear to be crying. Traditionally, marigolds are used to celebrate Dia De Los Mu***os (Day of the Dead) in Mexico, when the spirits of the departed are believed to visit the living. This Celebration is rooted in the Aztec festival honouring Mictecacihuatl, the goddess of the underworld.

Pair with willow to indicate the sorrow at the loss of a loved one or rue to apologize for the pain you caused.

In many cultures, marigolds are cherished symbols of brightness, joy, and celebration. Known as the “herbs of the Sun,” they bring warmth, creativity, and positivity, which is why they’re often a traditional touch in modern weddings. In Hindu ceremonies and festivals like Diwali, marigold garlands adorn doorways, tables, and even the bride and groom, wishing them happiness and prosperity.
In Mexico, marigolds play a key role during Dia de los Mu***os as “the flower of the dead.” Their vibrant colors and strong fragrance are believed to guide spirits back to their families, celebrating life and remembrance. Placed on ofrendas and used to cleanse souls, these blooms represent a beautiful connection between worlds.

As fall’s vibrant colors begin to fade, we find ourselves especially captivated by the enduring beauty of marigolds, whose warm hues mirror the season’s palette. Here at the shop, fall is one of our favorite seasons. The warmth of its colors, from the trees outside to the flowers we arrange inside, brings a special joy that we’ll deeply miss as autumn draws to a close. Marigolds, with their bold orange, yellow, and red, carry rich symbolism across cultures.
Representing purity, divinity, and the delicate connection between life and death. They’re a true embodiment of positive energy, joy, and prosperity, adding a sense of warmth and brightness to gardens, festivals, and gatherings. As the last golden leaves drift from the trees we celebrate the marigold, a bloom that feels as if it was made for this season.

Victorian Tablescape1820 - 1914The time of Queen Victoria’s reign in Great Britain, from approximately 1820 to 1914, is ...
09/29/2024

Victorian Tablescape
1820 - 1914
The time of Queen Victoria’s reign in Great Britain, from approximately 1820 to 1914, is referred to as the Victorian era. Victorian styles were characterized by lavish displays of wealth and an abundance of patterns. In floral design, elements such as color theory, scale, and composition were all carefully considered. There were strict rules imposed on how flowers were to be arranged, reflecting the rigid social expectations of the time. Flowers were selected from the gardens of the wealthy, with each season bringing different varieties of blooms. Today, we use flowers to say ‘thank you,’ ‘I love you,’ or ‘sorry for your loss,’ but the language expressed through flowers during Victorian times was even more intricate and deeply meaningful, almost like a code of communication. For instance, honeysuckle represented devotion, yarrow was said to cure a broken heart, and zinnia symbolized everlasting friendship.

To bring this era to life, we have created a dining room table display in the shop, reminiscent of a Victorian setting. All the unique antiques are curated by Erin Brown, the breathtaking ceramics are made by Pauline Halsey, and the stunning floral arrangements were crafted by Ran here at Thorn & Petal, Along with all the mesmerizing photographs that we will be posting were all taken by Sarah Evans, capturing the essence of this beautiful period.

We are thrilled to be part of Culture Days, a celebration of art and culture that has been growing strong since its ince...
09/29/2024

We are thrilled to be part of Culture Days, a celebration of art and culture that has been growing strong since its inception in 2010. Our team has poured their hearts into making this year’s event a success, and we’re excited to continue sharing it with you. Already a week into this month-long celebration, running from September 20 to October 13, our floral shop has transformed into a gallery, offering a unique experience that blends the art of flowers with history and culture. Alongside stunning floral displays, we’re also showcasing beautiful antiques curated by Erin Brown, stunning handmade pottery by Pauline Halsey and captivating photography by Sarah Evans adding even more depth to this creative journey. Whether you’re a regular visitor or just passing by, we invite you to step inside and explore our ongoing exhibition, “Flowers Through Time.” For those who can’t join us in person, we’ll be posting about each decade of floral design, so you can still immerse yourself in this rich history from wherever you are.

Flower Through Time – A Historical Exploration of Floral Art embodies the culture and influence of floral design through the ages, from the West to the East. The exhibition features floral styles such as lavish Victorian, ornate Ancient Asia, Art Deco of the 1920’s,  “Flower Power” of the 1970s, and contemporary design. This collaborative project highlights a few key moments which exemplify the rich history and cultural impact of flowers.
Take a journey back in time as we explore the presence of flowers throughout many centuries and identify their modern influence. Like any art form, floral design draws inspiration from the past, continuously reinterpreting moments in history.  Join our investigation into the complexities and variety of design styles while revealing the everyday roles of flowers in human lives.

We also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the artists and our dedicated staff for their hard work and commitment in making this exhibition possible.
Please stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll dive into the lavish floral styles of the Victorian decade.

Today’s Victorian Language of Flowers is Cornflower Meaning - Hope in love Origin - Folklore surrounding the cornflower,...
09/29/2024

Today’s Victorian Language of Flowers is Cornflower

Meaning - Hope in love

Origin - Folklore surrounding the cornflower, also called a “bachelor’s button,” states that a young man is to wear the flower when he is in love. If the flower dies quickly, it means his adoration is unrequited. However, if the flower maintains its bloom, there is hope that the young man’s love will be returned.

Pairs well with - Lilac as a gift for a first love
Sweet William to show you will always be true

The cornflower, or Centaurea cyanus, has long been associated with love, fertility, hope, and anticipation, embodying both patience and elegance. In England, young women wore cornflowers to signal their eligibility for marriage, this tradition deepens the flower’s connection to romance and delicate beauty. While in Europe, their rarity symbolized exotic beauty, refinement, and wealth.
The flower’s vibrant, true-blue hue makes it one of nature’s few genuinely blue blossoms, adding to its symbolism of refinement and delicate beauty. Its name, Cyanus, inspired the term for this distinct color. According to ancient Greek mythology, the magical cornflower even healed Achilles’ poisoned wounds, representing life, fertility, and reanimation. As a native of Mediterranean Europe, the cornflower stands as a humble reminder of nature’s simple beauty, embodying hope for the future and the fullness of life’s cycle.

Here at Thorn & Petal, we’re excited to be growing cornflowers in our own shop garden! Their unique and beautiful shape adds a delightful texture and whimsical feel to any floral arrangement. And though they may be small, these blooms make a big impact, bringing vibrant color and a touch of elegance to every design.

One of the greatest joys of this design is that every flower and piece of greenery came straight from our own garden. Th...
09/23/2024

One of the greatest joys of this design is that every flower and piece of greenery came straight from our own garden. There’s truly no better or more eco-friendly way to create something beautiful than by using what we’ve grown ourselves.

More of our Culture Days exhibition.
09/21/2024

More of our Culture Days exhibition.

One cold early spring day, when it was slow at the shop, three creative minds started brainstorming once again. We all l...
09/21/2024

One cold early spring day, when it was slow at the shop, three creative minds started brainstorming once again. We all love what we do, but we realize that not everyone fully understands our passion or the effort that goes on behind the scenes. This led to many questions: Why do we do what we do? Is our product simply flowers, or is it the designs we create? And how can we help others see that we’re not just playing with flowers?

By the end of that day, we decided to make an effort—small though it may be—to “communicate” with our flower-loving friends and give them a glimpse into our world. We came up with the idea of showcasing what we do to our neighborhood, and, if possible, to reach even larger audiences. From growing and harvesting flowers to designing them in custom containers, capturing their beauty through photography, and preserving them forever, we envisioned documenting our journey and sharing it with everyone.

Canada Culture Days provided the perfect platform for us to present this idea. Today marks the beginning of Culture Days, and we worked late into the night yesterday to prepare the shop for this special exhibition. As a business owner, making the business profitable is, of course, important. But what’s even more important to us is helping our friends and community understand why we do what we do.

We hope that our small effort brings you some joy, introduces you to fun facts you may not have known before, and perhaps even brings you closer to our world. We also hope it inspires others, even those who may not know much about flowers, to step into the beautiful world we’ve devoted our lives to creating.

If you’d like to learn more about our event and the duration of the exhibition, please visit the following link: https://culturedays.ca/en/events/163409f0-3454-4bb0-83af-4a417649f641. We’d love for you to join this beautiful collaboration featuring .and.petal for flower design, for handmade ceramics, for photography, and for antique collections.

Address

127 Grand River Street North
Paris, ON
N3L2M4

Opening Hours

Tuesday 9am - 6pm
Wednesday 9am - 6pm
Thursday 9am - 6pm
Friday 9am - 6pm
Saturday 10am - 5pm
Sunday 10am - 5pm

Telephone

+15488999585

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