Est. 23 Breemar Flower Farm
Birthdays and Blooms
The story behind our family inspired logo.
Welcome to Breemar Flower Farm's very first blog post, where I am thrilled to share the heartwarming story behind my logo—a symbol that's deeply rooted in family, love, and the beauty of nature.
Breemar Flower Farm, nestled in the heart of Ashland, VA (Zone 7a), is more than just a farm; it's a labor of love. I want you to know that this micro-farm that I am creating is a one-woman show for now. While I have the tremendous support of my husband, Michael, and our children. I am doing most of the labor, planning, researching, and sharing with you. Michael has taken a leap of faith to allow me to chart my own path amidst being a busy stay-at-home mom. For that, I am incredibly grateful. I’d like to invite you to be a part of my story (our story). So…let’s dig in. The journey begins with the name itself, "Breemar," a blend of our two precious daughters' names, Aubree and Marcie. My girls are not just the inspiration behind the farm; they are its heart and soul. They are my why.
I designed our logo based on the idea of our family’s birth flowers.
What are birth flowers?
Much like birthstones, birth flowers capture the essence of individuality and celebrate our connection to the natural world. Each month boasts its own flower (or two), blooming with unique characteristics that resonate with the spirit of those born within their designated time frame and often correlate with the rhythm of the seasons. The rose of June, symbolizes love and passion, while the marigold of October, represents warmth and affection. I’ve chosen flowers that bloom in Spring for our logo because this is the time of year when I will be at the height of my growing season.
Aubree and Michael’s Birth Flowers:
Larkspur and Waterlily
Born in July, a day apart from each other, larkspur represents the depth of their character and their ever-blooming spirits. It represents positivity and dedication. Anyone who knows Aubree will tell you how dedicated she is to being a good friend. She was even named the biggest cheerleader on her baseball team. Michael dedicated 9 years of his life to serving our Country in the US Army before being medically retired after serving several tours in the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. Paired with the waterlily, it creates a beautiful contrast, symbolizing both their grounded nature and their ability to reach for the skies. Michael grounds me. He pulls me in and helps me make good business decisions such as starting with 145 plants instead of 250. Boy, am I glad he did!
Growing Larkspur:
In my growing zone 7a, where the climate offers mild winters and warm summers, growing and caring for larkspur can be a rewarding experience. Plant larkspur seeds in the late summer or early fall for spring blooms, and ensure they receive well-drained soil, full sun to partial shade, and regular watering. Larkspur is relatively low-maintenance, but deadheading spent flowers can prolong blooming, and staking may be needed to support taller varieties in windy conditions. Larkspur makes an excellent addition to the cutting garden.
Marcie's Birth Flowers: Gladiolus and Poppy
Our youngest, Marcie, arrived 4 weeks early in August, and her birth flowers, gladiolus and poppy, tell her story perfectly. Gladiolus, with its sword-shaped leaves and vibrant spikes of flowers, mirrors her strength and determination. The poppy, chosen for its springtime blooms, reflects her vibrant energy and the joy she brings to our lives. According to Greek mythology, the poppy was associated with Demeter, the goddess of agriculture. Of the two girls, Marcie is the one you will see most often out in the fields with me.
Growing Poppies:
Growing and caring for poppies can absolutely happen in Virginia. I saw a beautiful stand of Champagne Bubbles poppies during a visit to The Gardener’s Workshop Farm in Norfolk. I must admit that I tried to grow them twice this past season and could not get the seeds to germinate. These delicate blooms are so intriguing to me. I am going to try again. Plant poppy seeds in the fall or early spring in well-drained soil and a sunny location. Water sparingly, as poppies prefer drier conditions once established, and deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering. Stems are short and vase life is fleeting, but their beauty is undeniable.
My Birth Flowers: Violets and Primrose
As for me, February brings violets into the world. They are one of the first Spring flowers to bloom and I share their native Virginia roots. These charming, resilient flowers bloom from spring through summer, and their purple color represents truth and loyalty. Those who know me well, know that I shoot from the hip. Tact isn’t my strength, but you’ll always know where I stand. I am quick to tell my truth and I rarely hold back my emotions. A good friend of mine gave me a lapel pin recently that says speak the truth, but do no harm. It serves as a good reminder to me to take an extra second to think before I speak. Primrose symbolizes femininity in many cultures, the stages of a woman’s life, as well as the protection, safety, and love mothers give to their children.
Growing Violets:
Growing and caring for violets in Zone 7a is relatively easy, as they are native to Virginia. So easy in fact that you will often find them growing wild in wooded and shady areas. Plant them in well-drained soil in partial to full shade, and keep the soil consistently moist. Violets are resilient and low-maintenance, making them a charming addition to the garden. A word of caution though, while they are not invasive as they are native plants, they are vigorous.
Our Logo: A Bouquet of Love and Connection
Our logo is more than just a design; it's a bouquet of love and connection. It's a representation of our family's journey, the love that binds us, and our deep connection to the land we call home. It's a reminder that every bloom on our farm carries a piece of our story and my dedication to bringing you the finest, locally grown, sustainably nurtured flowers.
As we embark on this exciting journey with Breemar Flower Farm, I invite you to be a part of our story, just as our logo represents our family's love and the beauty of nature's cycles. Stay tuned for more updates, gardening tips, and, of course, the joy of peonies.
Thank you for joining us on this blossoming adventure. I can't wait to share the beauty that each season brings with you. To learn more about birth flowers and their meanings, click here. Next Flower Friday, we will dig into the field and I’ll give you the dirt on what I plan to grow.
Keep Blooming,
Nicole Dillon
Breemar Flower Farm
