All things botanical are on our minds at the moment – with the change of the season and the Little Owl Design showcase in the shop until the end of this month.

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Above : Collage by Mary Delany (1700-88)

Below: Wallpaper Dutch Garden Copper designed by Little Owl

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This summer we read a book called The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh. It a very touching story about a young woman who uses flowers to communicate with others.

The Victorian tradition of the language of flowers was used to convey subtle romantic messages; honeysuckle for devotion, asters for patience, and red roses for love.

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It’s a moving and compelling read that inspired and engaged us. If you are interested to hear more, this is a interview with the author talking about the book.

Vanessa Diffenbaugh has certainly encouraged us to find out more about this wonderfully coded language and it’s different meanings.

Which books have you read this summer ? How did they inspire you ?

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