Now that we have finally escaped the icy cold grip of winter, it’s about time we bring that spring back into our step. And around this time of year, there is hardly a better way to get back your bounce than with a fresh, vibrant bouquet of flowers. With exciting splashes of colors and garden-fresh fragrances, an arrangement of pretty petals is the perfect way to celebrate spring’s return. We’ve scoured the city – and asked you – to find out which Vancouver shops are offering the most CRAVE-worthy blossoms. Here are just a few of our favorites, just in time for Mother’s Day, graduations, and of course, wedding season. But we think one of the best ways to enjoy spring’s natural renewal is with a lovely bouquet, just for you. Just because.

Set in the trendy Yaletown district, Divine Vines (1066 Mainland Street, Vancouver ) certainly fits in with their cutting-edge, contemporary floral compositions. Combining local and internationally grown buds, each arrangement presents an eclectic mix of exotic and familiar favorites for a look that is altogether unique and perfectly pleasing. The boutique serves as a one-stop-shop for every type of botanical need, from corporate designs to weddings to holidays and even single bouquets. Each order is personally customized, and each flower hand-picked with artful expertise to match a client’s vision and event’s theme.  That kind of exquisite detail will not be missed in the decadent arrangement you bring to your office, party, home, or special someone.

Garland Florists ( 2950 West Broadway Vancouver) approaches flowers like an avant-garde painter would approach a canvas, with an eye for the dramatic and modern. Their design team utilizes bold colors and eye-catching accessories to create contemporary expressions fit for a range of occasions and settings. A trip to their shop on West Broadway will throw your senses into overload, with an endless array of botanic options. They even offer custom-made planters for your home gardens, and an incredible range of fresh greens to choose from. Garland Florist’s team happily shares their knowledge and tips for keeping your blossoms beautiful, so even if you’re thumb is not the greenest on the block, your neighbors would never have to know. Unless you tell them, of course!

If your love for flowers goes beyond mere appreciation, you may need to visit the Academy of Floral Design & New Westminster Floral Company (335 E Columbia St, New Westminster)where you can become trained in the art of botanical design while also gaining firsthand experience in a bustling business environment. The Academy’s certified and comprehensive program covers several aspects of floral composition, technique, and design, offering a unique and real-world environment in which to hone their skills. If you would rather leave the arranging to the professionals (and budding professionals), the shop’s historic location in Sapperton of New Westminster provides exceptional floral design for every occasion. A shop that teaches what it preaches – that’s a business approach we definitely CRAVE!