cost effective callas...

yes it's true, you CAN use calla lilies and still not ruin your budget! calla lilies (aka Zantedeschia) are a more expensive flower option but there are so many ways to create an amazing design without using many flowers. you can have a sleek, contemporary design without spending a fortune. here is a sample for client who loved the idea of white callas but didn't love the idea of a huge price tag...

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calla lilies (which are not lilies at all) are long lasting, versatile and available all year round in tons of different colors. you can see some of the colors available at most floral shops at transflora, they show a range of colors in their calla lily catalog section.

callas are great to use in your home as well...here are a few tips when choosing and caring for them:

1. Make sure the stems feel strong and are not "mushy". Look for any brown around the edges of the flower...you don't want that!
   
2. Once you get the callas home use a sharp knife to cut - don't use scissors! That will crush the stems.
3. Callas need only 1-2" of water in the bottom of the vase.
4. Avoid touching the actual flower head...this will cause the flowers to bruise and start to decay much more quickly (this is true for all flowers).

remember, don't limit yourself on flower choices! choose what you love and create a design that makes sense for your budget!