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Let’s Start Planning Our Outdoor Spaces

by on ‎01-20-2014 06:33 PM

With the winter well underway and most of us experiencing record breaking low temperatures, now might just be a perfect time to look out your window and plan your dream garden and outdoor living area.   Taking some time to think out and plan makes it all so much easier and you will be ahead of the game come springtime!   Get out your garden journal or sketch pad and consider all of the elements – exposure, drainage, best space for a gathering.  Maybe consider an area near a water element or spot shielded from the wind…each and every bit of thought and detail will pay off in creating YOUR outdoor space, unique and creative just like you.



I find that starting with a “wish list” helps me give everything in my garden and outdoor space a true purpose.  If you are planning a garden, before you place your first order have a list started.  Remember you can always add to your list and having the basics of what you want will make your spaces flow and work more efficiently.  I find this to be extremely helpful when designing outdoor living spaces too.   I like to order that one (or two) piece that I want for my area whether it be a fountain, solar lighting, furniture and build from there.   Let me tell you that dreaming of a beautiful fountain in your outdoor space will make you all warm and fuzzy inside


Now do not be afraid of this next step – make a diagram to scale.  Let me assure you EACH AND EVERY ONE OF US CAN DO THIS.  Whatever you call your “challenge” mathematics, spatial, artistic – we can all plan and create very specific diagrams TO SCALE.   Oh, and do not forget to tune in throughout January for some wonderful garden living items on QVC and check back here for more gardening tips! I can’t wait to show you! 


- Barbara


 



 


Meet Barbara King:



Barbara King's extensive career in the horticulture and design industries began at a very early age, when she decorated homes and outdoor spaces in her childhood neighborhood. Following in the footsteps of her father and grandfather, both floral designers, Barbara has since moved on to create an outdoor design empire recognized both at home and abroad. She loves the possibilities of outdoor floral design.


Barbara's designs have been blue-ribbon winners in venerable competitions such as the Philadelphia International Flower Show, Tournament of Roses, and Newport Flower Show. The outdoor sanctuaries and intimate spaces she has created have led to requests for her designs from private clients from around the world.


When it came time to celebrate her father and the 45th anniversary of the original Valley Forge Flowers location, Barbara created her own showpiece in Wayne, Pennsylvania. Valley Forge Flowers is now home to 7,000 square feet overflowing with flowers, garden and home accessories, numerous design services, and Café Fleur—a relaxing spot where customers can come to have a coffee and enjoy the nature-inspired décor.



Barbara is looking forward to her show with QVC. She hopes the beautiful plants and flowers she presents will inspire QVC customers to take advantage of the outdoors, what she calls "the greatest gift of all."