Bank of Memories & Flowers

Wedding Tips By Melissa 102

2012-02-09T17:37:00.001-08:00

Things to Bring to Your Florist:

1. Have a folder or binder filled with flower photos and ideas. This can give your florist a feel of your style. Select your wedding colors. Have photos and/or swatches of your wedding dress and bridesmaid dresses, or at least the colors you're considering.

There is nothing more fun when by bride opens up her binder and shows me her collage of pictures. The frame work is starting to take form and my creative brain works into gear collaborating with her style. Just love this moment!

2. Bring photos of the ceremony and reception locations.

This not only helps me but can also help you visualize as we come up with ideas and concepts. We can focus on the details of the space and figure out were flowers would most enhance the space.

3. Have list of the wedding party to determine "who needs what." (Include bridesmaids, groomsmen, flowers girls, ring bearers, ushers, parents, ect.) Think about where you would like to decorate at the ceremony and reception.

I will make sure to go over any and all areas of flowers at the consultation; this is a pre-homework list to get you thinking about what you need.

4. Have a complete sense of yourself and how much you want to spend. Not only will it make it easier for the florist to help you, but it will keep you on budget.

Yes, it is hard to know what to estimate but have an idea what you feel comfortable spending. Are you willing to spend, $1,000 or $5,000? Is your wedding more simple or do you have exotic taste?...like everything you seemed to pick for this wedding is the high style price tag. That can be an indicator of what your flowers may cost too. But just know you always have options; I can come up with something unique and different for centerpieces for $10 up to $250+ a table. Rule of thumb is to estimate for your wedding flowers is 10-15% of your total wedding budget is to be spent on flowers. This breaks down to $2,000 to $3,000 for a $20,000 wedding. (Average Milwaukee Wedding is between $17,000 and $28,000 according to theweddingreport.com)

Lauren's Thoughts on Valentines

2012-02-06T19:04:00.000-08:00

With the thought of Valentine’s day right around the corner, I wondered to myself “What do women really want?” I did a little “research”--and when I say research I mean asking my friends and acquaintances-- to figure out what women want. Now, as a full-time marketing professional I must note that my research does not count as a valid study, but who cares!

After asking my friends what they wanted for Valentine’s day, I learned that most of them said that they simply wanted to know that their man was thinking about them. And what was their favorite way to realize this? “I would LOVE to receive flowers” was one of the most popular responses. However, several women said they believed that the standard bouquet of roses is cliché and doesn’t always always fit their personality. Ordering her a bouquet of oriental lilies after remembering how she “oo-ed” and “ah-ed” over them while on a walk last summer will mean more to her than anything (Guys, its shows that you pay attention!) In addition, women said that flowers really brighten their day at work and even makes their day!

So guys, what do we get out of this? Flowers are definitely a great gift for Valentine’s day, but let’s mix it up every once and while. This valentine’s day Bank of Memories is offering special arrangements. Ask about our “Etched in Love” arrangement that provides a variety of flowers including roses, daisies, mini carnations and beautiful filler flowers. Or maybe our “Exclusively Yours” arrangement fits your wife/girlfriend’s personality-- filled with roses, lilies, snap dragons and other flowers. Plus, we have chocolate AND Becky’s Blissful Bakery Caramels!

Let us help you make something special for your special someone. We are known for our unique personalized arrangements straight from the heart, which is what women really want.

~Lauren Wright

Pewaukee Designer

Washington County Wedding Show Recap

2012-02-01T16:41:00.000-08:00

We had so much fun chatting with all of the beautiful brides to be this past Sunday at the Washington County Wedding Show. At Bank of Memories & Flowers we know that wedding bouquet design is constantly evolving along with current fashions.

So what are the current popular trends in wedding bouquet design?

The style of bouquets is simple and elegant designs which include the most popular hand tied bouquets. This could be by using exotic flowers such as pin cushioned protea, as shown in our all yellow bouquet, or by designing it to be chic and unfussy.

Our all red rose bouquet portrays how you can easily accessorize any bouquet using elegant diamond rhinestones. While meeting with our brides a frequent wish for their wedding bouquet design is to have it 'traditional with a contemporary twist.' At Bank of Memories we can offer our brides a contemporary stylish look using contemporary flowers, design, and accessories. And fear not bride- color is your friend! A textural, colorful bouquet will totally pop off your dress in your pictures.

Photos by Melissa K. Photography 414-659-3774

Weddings Tips From Melissa 101

2012-01-26T21:06:00.000-08:00

Many of my girlfriends that are getting married ask me "Melissa, where do I start? HELP!" So here are some inside tips on how do get started finding the perfect flowers for your special day.

Finding a Florist

1. Book a florist at least 12-8 months before your wedding.

Especially at Bank of Memories & Flowers, we book up. It's the last thing I want to do is turn down a bride because we are booked. Once you have an idea of whom and where you will need flowers and your bridesmaids dress color picked out, you are set for a consultation. Yes, things might change along the way but I just go with the flow and cater to the changes as needed. It is always a good feeling when you have a sense of what your flowers will be and to get that big "to do" off your wedding list.

2. Ask friends and family for references.

This is the most common way our Brides find us; a venue might have suggested us, they have heard of us from a co-worker or have been a bridesmaid in a wedding we have done. They have seen our work first hand.

3. How is their service?

We offer day of services which makes us stand out from the other florists. Everything from delivering, to set up, pinning on, and midnight take down; you'll find what you need. I have some brides that need me to fill in where needed throughout the day to "Melissa! I just need you to do everything...!" Check out some of our Packages.

4. Can they cater to your needs?

My girlfriends always joke, "Tell us about your Bridezillas!" I really don't have any. Yes, some need a little more hand holding then others but this really gives me the change to get to know them and makes their wedding day more special. I tend to cater to my brides how they need the process to go. They have never done this before, so I want to make sure it is as unstressful as possible.

5. Most important, have a feel of the florist. Will they portray your style?

I really do love working with my brides. From our first consultation, I get so excited when my brides describe to me their ideas and style. From there, I create in my mind a custom design just for her. I laugh that is a strange gift to have, but I really can visualize her flowers in detail to size, colors and textures.

Photo by Faber Photography

Wedding Show This Sunday!

2012-01-26T20:55:00.000-08:00

Bridal shows are a good way to judge some of the new trends and concepts that are accepted and fashionable in the industry today. Don't miss us this Sunday, January 29th at Washington County Fair Park for their annual wedding show.

Plan your wedding in one stop from 11am till 3pm! Dozens of great vendors to chat with and sample their products. Amelishan Bridal puts on a great fashion show at 1:30 showcasing all of this years wedding dresses. Take some time to walk our show floor and take in the latest colors, styles, decor and concepts in wedding flowers. Admission is only $3.00 at the door. Don't forget to enter our drawing for a chance to win $150.00 off your wedding flowers. Can't wait to see you there!

The Greatest of Love Stories

2012-01-23T20:46:00.000-08:00

Every year Hollywood produces films dedicated to telling love stories. Even action films have some kind of romance interest. But let’s be real, the stories seem unrealistic. It’s time for us to hear about true love stories.

Bank of Memories and Flowers wants to hear the greatest of love stories. The love-at-first-sight, head-over-heels, distance means nothing, high school/college sweetheart stories that remind us what love is all about. Designer/Social Media coordinator, Lauren Wright says, “Everyone’s love story is truly unique and special. Our customers enjoy hearing the stories we have to tell, and we want to hear them all.”

Bank of Memories is asking customers to share their greatest love stories and enter to win a free dozen red roses and a box of chocolates to be delivered on Valentine’s day. In order to enter, customers are asked to write their story, 500 words or less, by February 10. The love story will be shared on BOM’s blog and other social media outlets.

Stories can be sent via email (bankofflowers@yahoo.com), mail (see below) or by dropping it off at either location. Writers will need to include their contact information and information for the receiver of the flowers and chocolate.

It’s about time we start hearing real stories that aren’t fabricated by Hollywood. And Bank of Memories knows the customers that walk through their doors have the greatest of love stories.

Contact:

Bank of Memories and Flowers

Melissa Mass-Owner

bankofflowers@yahoo.com

Menonomee Falls Shop

Ph: 262.253.9111

N88 W16723 Appleton Avenue

Pewaukee Shop

Ph: 262.695.9911

346 Oakton Avenue

Meet Our Designer Michelle

2012-01-18T10:38:00.000-08:00

Meet Michelle Wille, one of the fantastic designers at our Menomonee Falls location! She is 24 years old and started working for us in 2008. During that time she was going to school for Spanish Education at Mt. Mary college. She now teaches Middle School Spanish at Slinger Middle School and is the freshman volleyball coach. She enjoys teaching the skills of the game and getting to know the players more personally than just in the classroom. Michelle helps us out the shop part time in the evenings and occasionally on Saturdays.

Michelle enjoys traveling in summer and during breaks from school. She looks forward to sharing her experiences with her students. She has traveled to six Spanish speaking countries, and has made a life long goal to visit the other 20. While in Costa Rica, Michelle frequently visited a flower shop in the small town of Santa Ana. There she was able to use her experiences from our shop and her Spanish to participate in an interview and design a couple of arrangements. Here at the shop, we receive informational biographies about the Hispanic women who package our flowers. Michelle now uses these biographies to help her students connect with the world outside their own. "The flower shop is my haven, after what is sometimes a long day with the students. I truly enjoy the ambiance at the shop."

It's a Boy!

2012-01-11T17:29:00.000-08:00

Tom, Theodore, Florence and Melissa Maas

Owner Melissa Maas gave birth to a sweet little boy on December 27th to Theodore.

"This has been such a wonderful Christmas, and of course , my favorite Christmas present! My daughter Florence loves to call him our little Teddy bear. I am so excited I have joined the mom club of having a little boy. I hope he will enjoy growing up at the Flower shop...playing with flowers or just playing in the dirt...? Only time will tell. In the mean time there are plenty of girls at the shop that will be holding him." - Melissa

2012 Wedding Show!

2012-01-11T16:57:00.000-08:00

If you missed us or just want another look...here are all the beautiful floral designs from the 2012 Wonderful World of Weddings show at State Fair on January 7th and 8th.

2012 wedding season here we come! Danyell, Krista and Sam had a world wind of a time creating these amazing floral design, setting up the booth and talking with so many wonderful brides and grooms all in a weekend.

Now is the time to set up a wedding consultation, dates are filling up. At your consultation will go over all your ideas, help you come up with some new ones, go over all your flowers in detail and even have an estimate at the end of the consultation. Our consultation fee is $25; and if you book your wedding flowers with us, this fee will go toward your wedding costs.

Before your consultation, we encourage you to have your bridesmaid dress picked out, a list of areas you will need flowers (people, ceremony and reception) and an idea of a budget. Pictures of of your inspiration always helps.

Thanks to Melissa K. Photography for these beautiful pictures. Melissa can capture your special day and even your engagement photos. Melissa can be reached at 414-659-3774.

Voted the Best of Weddings 2012!

2012-01-03T09:19:00.000-08:00

Bank of Memories & Flowers has been selected the Best of Weddings for 2012 for the third year in a row for the Milwaukee Metro area for being the "Best" in Wedding Flowers from the Knot.com. We pride ourselves with going over and beyond our brides dreams for her wedding day. Thank you to all our brides that have wrote glowing reviews on the Knot.com We are so excited for this honor!

Pabst Brewery Wedding

2011-12-19T07:29:00.000-08:00

Jamie and Doug had the perfect Fall wedding. They were married at the Pabst Brewery in the historical out door court yard with flowing orange petals, candle light and orange gerbera daisy lining the aisle. Their cocktail hour was in the cozy German pub with the wood burning fireplace keeping all the guest warm sipping on various pints of local beer. The reception was in the beer hall. The centerpieces where lined on the original dark wood tables with simple orange gerbera daisy floating in cylinder glass vases wrapped in chocolate satin ribbon.
Jamie's bouquet was all large white gerbera daisies wrapped in satin ribbon. Her brides maids carried all orange gerbera daisies.

Fast Flower Delivery

2011-12-19T06:28:00.000-08:00

Wayne (Delivery Driver) loading up with poinsettias for local companies.

Don (Delivery Driver) taking extra care of someones flowers.

Fast Flower Delivery Like Never Seen Before

Both of our weekly drivers, Don and Wayne, have been in the flower delivery business long before working with Melissa. They are very experienced at their job. Wayne has even informed us that all of his life driving of 55 years, he has never been stopped for any traffic violations. Both of our drivers have served in major world wars; Wayne serving in the Vietnam war and Don with the Marines in the Koran war. Before working for us, Don worked at the Milwaukee Post office for 36 years, and Wayne was the supervisor in the accounting department at Wisconsin Electric.

During the summer, Don goes up to his cottage in Portage and spends time with his wife. Wayne love traveling the world, especially germany, where he still has family and friends. THey always have fun stories for us when they come in.

Bank of Memories & Flowers guarantee same day deliveries all over the metro Milwaukee area. So, if you're ever in a bind needing a delivery fast, you can count on our drivers. If you're one of those people who does things at the very last minute or procrastinate, you can rest assured that our drivers will get your arrangement out fast!

Delivering flowers was listed in this years top rewarding careers. If you happen to see our vans driving around during the week, give the guys a friendly wave!

Wedding Show! Come See Us!

2011-12-09T19:20:00.000-08:00

If you are getting married or know someone that is getting married, you don't want to miss the Wonderful World of Weddings at the Wisconsin Exposition at State Fair Park on January 7th and 8th from 10am till 430pm.

Here are a few of our wedding bouquets that you will see when you stop in at our booth #312. Come and enjoy our portfolios of past weddings. Meet our designers and wedding experts to answer all your floral wedding questions. We would love to spend a little time with you and hear all your wedding details.

Bank of Memories Babies

2011-12-08T13:03:00.000-08:00

As you may already know, we here at Bank of Memories & Flowers keep a tally of how many babies are born every month by writing down when someone orders flowers for them! We keep this information until the end of the month when we post on our Facebook and Twitter pages the tally of the baby boys and baby girls born.

This month of December we are especially excited to tally our very own Melissa Maas's baby! She is due January 1st and we can't wait to meet the new baby Maas! Melissa already has a 4 year old daughter, Florence, who is also very excited about a baby sister or brother. Melissa doesn't want to find out the gender of her baby. She says "It's my own little Christmas surprise! I'm so excited!".

We will keep you updated as her pregnancy progresses and keep a look our for those tally marks! We love our Bank of Memories Babies.

About The Owner

2011-11-29T15:37:00.000-08:00

MELISSA
MAAS
-OWNER

Owner and operator, Melissa Maas grew up with a love of flowers. Even when she was little, she begged her dad to build her a greenhouse in the back yard. She had dreams of filling it with flowers. When she was old enough, she worked in flower shops throughout high school and college. After graduating from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Melissa attended the Floral Design Institute in Seattle, WA where she received her Advanced Floral Certificate.

In the spring of 2004, the opportunity arose for her to purchase a flower shop in her hometown and her dreams became a reality. At the age of 24, she bought Bank of Memories & Flowers in Menomonee Falls located in the Historic Village Center. A year later she opened a second location in Pewaukee, two blocks east of Pewaukee Lake.

This really is a family business. Melissa's husband Tom helps out with the business side. "I love bouncing off ideas late into the night in our home office together." Melissa and Tom also have a four year old daughter named Florence. "We love her name, we chose it because it means flourishing and blooming." Melissa and Tom are also expecting a baby this Christmas!

Melissa also serves on the Teleflora Board of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan where she helps organized seminars to further other florist’s education. Melissa continues to grow her inspiration and her business every year, doing everything from designing to delivery. “I wouldn’t want to be doing anything else, I am truly blessed.”

We were in the News!

2011-11-29T15:05:00.000-08:00

Holidays Promise Business Boost for Bank of Memories and Flowers

Popular Menomonee Falls Florist offers Thanksgiving and Christmas decorating with that personal touch.

By Tom Andrews
Email the author
November 21, 2011

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By any measure, the local business climate has been kind to Bank of Memories and Flowers ever since owner Melissa Maas first opened her doors about nine years ago. The floral shop, located in historic downtown at the four corners of Appleton Avenue at Main Street (N88 W16723 Appleton Avenue) has enjoyed consistently excellent reviews as one of the finest florists in the Milwaukee area.

However, with the Holiday Season at our doorstep, manager Krista Roskopf says she is expecting an extra bump in business as people incorporate plants and flowers in their Thanksgiving and Christmas decorating plans. Customers have always appreciated the shop’s wide selection of floral arrangements and unique gift items.

“We do a lot of different, unique designs,” said Roskopf. “We can do custom work because we carry a wide assortment of flowers. If people don’t see exactly what they want we are able to get it for them, usually that same day. Plus, we do a lot of event work such as weddings as well. Another thing that we’re really proud of is that we have all of our floral designs and plant designs at Community Memorial Hospital. Not only are people able to buy our arrangements here, we always have a wide assortment of flowers arranged in Community Memorial’s cooler, too.”

The regulars also come to visit their favorite character, the shop’s cat, Chloe.

“Some people come in just to see her,” said Roskopf. “She’s kind of been our family around here, too. People love to see her because we have these two big windows and we put different displays up for every season. She’s known for sitting in the displays so when the lights shine up on her people see her from the four corners and it just brightens people’s day.”

Customers also come looking for that special, unique center piece for the Holiday table.

“We do a lot of fall center pieces including candles and we carry a lot of floral novelty containers that even have arrangements, ceramic pumpkins and different types of vases,” said Roskopf. “We do a lot of the fall chrysanthemums as well because that is something that will thrive for a long time.”

Roskopf and her staff handle plenty of special floral decorative requests, especially for Christmas, at their Falls shop as well as their second location in Pewaukee. More often than not, they ply their craft right in the customer’s home.

“We actually go into the peoples’ homes where we decorate their trees,” said Roskopf. “We use a lot of our specialty ribbons and ornaments where we’ll go into the home and decorate. We can even use their decorations from year to year including putting up their villages above their kitchen cabinets and handling their complete Christmas decorations.”

It’s that direct customer contact that Roskopf has always found interesting and exciting.

“I like doing those special occasions,” said Roskopf. “I recently did an arrangement for a new baby. That’s always exciting talking with the people, especially when there’s a fun occasion such as new births, a new promotion or anything like that.

“I think the Menomonee Falls business climate is really good. The people around here are really nice, too. The only negative in being at a location like this is parking. A lot of people don’t realize that they can park right on Main Street. Parking is the only complaint that we ever get. But the Falls is a great place for our business.”