What to do with your Valentine's flower bouquet

I was behind my posting, but as I started catching up I also got inspired and decided to post a few extras...if you don't mind, hehe ;)

For those of you that want to enjoy your Valentine's flowers for a little longer, why not try making your own flower arrangements?

This arrangement lasted me 3-4 weeks. The secret? flower food!

As for me, one of my greatest passions is to make flower arrangements for my own home. I actually took a Floral Design class once that taught me all that I know. I'm not saying I'm an expert, but I feel that I could certainly give you some tips as to how to better take care of your flowers and add value--not to mention longevity--to this Valentine's present which appeals to most women.

Here we go:

What you will need:
-flowers (duh)
-vase of your choice (I personally like cube vases, mason jars, or tall bottle ones)
-warm water
-1 flower food package
-flower cutter/plier (scissors or knives could also work, but could damage the stems)
-ribbon (optional)

1. Cut 1-1.5in off the stems, (to get rid of any bacteria that might have been blocking the flower's water suction) Also, avoid doing it with scissors, knife or fingers, they might break the stem. You might consider getting yourself a flower cutter/plier.
2. Strip off (with the cutter, preferably) all the leaves on the part of the stem that might potentially get in contact with the water in the vase (leaves are "great" to attract bacteria to your flowers--no one wants that).
3. Gently strip off any wilted petals that might be damaged (the flowers don't really mind, but dang love feeling pretty again!)
4. Fill your chosen vase with warm/lukewarm water (this helps them hydrate faster than with cold water).
5. Pour the package of flower food in the water and mix it up a bit (this is the secret to making your flowers last for up to two weeks or more!) 
6. Start placing your flowers the way you want them: first "frame" the arrangement with your filler flowers (smaller flowers or greenery), then choose a focal point with your largest/most colorful/prettiest single flower or grouping and place each flower at a time, rearranging them until you feel they "fit" wherever they are.
7. (OPTIONAL) Tie a matching ribbon around your vase--it will give a nice final touch ;)

 Below are some examples of what I've done, and what you could do as well:

These are the flowers my hubby gave me this Valentine's Day (arrangement by me)

Simple way to show off your roses (this took me 5 minutes!)

TIP: As the days go by, some flowers will inevitably wilt faster than others. Don't feel pity and take them off the arrangement so the wilting doesn't "spread" across the other flowers.