Welcome to the Toolbox Blog for Vinifera Floral Design. The name refers to something I cannot design flowers without - my toolbox. The key to successful floral design and a smooth installation is adaptability, and with my toolbox I am fully prepared. In my toolbox I have my design 'tools' and everything I need for the day of an event, plus items I may not need. In addition to my 'tools', my box also has other necessities - phone, magazine, change for Tim Hortons, ipod, my daughter's DS and probably my driver's license. I learned the importance of a well stocked toolbox from a past teacher - Ms M. Ms M told a story about a wedding she was attending as a guest. Before the bride came down the aisle another guest came and summoned Ms M to attend to a problem. The bride was carrying a cascading floral bouquet and the cage which held the oasis (which was fully loaded with flowers) to the holder had come apart. It was assumed that Ms M would have the necessary tools (and chenille stems) in her purse to fix the problem. Not being the florist who designed the bouquet, Ms M thought she was safe attending a wedding with only her evening clutch - how wrong she was. With not a chenille stem in sight to attach the cage to the holder, the bride walked down the aisle holding her bouquet handle with one hand and held the flowers in place with her other hand. From this experience, Ms M does not leave home without her basic tools and I am diligent about keeping my toolbox fully equipped for both the design studio and on the road.