A floral design system is described having a base that is utilized to house water when displaying live flowers. Methods of Gram staining bacteria using a slow-acting decolorizing formulation, such as one that includes 1,2-propandiol or ethylene glycol, can be used to extend the time of the decolorizing step, and thus permit automation of the Gram staining method. Either user can pause, rewind, or fast forward the streamed video as it is viewed by both users.