FLOWERS

Flowers are a big part of the Barr Mansion look. Not only are gardens surrounding each of our buildings but we make sure that flowers are part of the beauty of the inside experience. The Mansion is full of greenery and for every wedding our florist composes a lavish centerpiece of organic roses for the Artisan Ballroom. The roses are flown in every week from the only national organic wholesaler in the US.

BARR MANSION SPECIFIC

Since all Abby's designs are focused on Barr Mansion, she has many ideas on what works well at the various wedding locations. Barr Mansion has also purchased several looks for centerpieces that can be a cost savings for you. Instead of each bride having to purchase low cost containers for all their table arrangements, we have tried to purchase several higher end looks that can be shared by several clients and hopefully is a good situation for all. Then the flowers, rocks, etc. are added according to budgets.

BUY LOCAL!

Not only do we like to support local people but at a time when you are choosing flowers to show your love and affection, you might reflect for a moment on how your bouquet was produced. Commercial flowers have some bad secrets.

Pesticides found on flowers have been found to have 50 times the amount of pesticides allowed on foods. Flower-workers absorb chemicals through their skin and lungs, and they frequently work without even the simplest forms of protective equipment, like gloves or masks. Most of the flowers are not grown in the US and come from developing countries that use chemicals that are now banned in the US. The market for better flowers is here and these growers deserve and need our support!

SOY CANDLES

Barr Mansion requires soy candles because

1. They do not produce soot, whereas petroleum candles eventually blacken the ceiling and with our thatch roof cleaning is obviously not a possibility
2. They are petroleum free which in our world of energy problems, any amount helps
3. They are healthy to breathe, whereas petroleum candles emit toluene, benzene and formaldehyde.

Furthermore, we offer organic soy candles which means

1. There are no pesticides used on the soy to make the candles
2. The soy has not been genetically modified

COMMUNITY

While we do use conventionally grown flowers, we constantly look for local sources that will provide a fresher look plus be good for our community and the environment. In Austin, we are fortunate to have the best flower grower in Texas real close to us in Blanco Texas, called Texas Specialty Cut Flowers. The Arnosky's have been growing flowers since 1990 and have as they say, "built our little blue house, grown our production to over 40 acres of flowers, put up 14 greenhouses, raised 4 children, remained true to our path, and still do a pretty mean two-step!" We encourage you to use their flowers to have something beautiful and at the same time, be making a commitment to your community!