I know people who live to decorate. It’s creative, it’s fun and people notice your work. Whether you’re almost done with the mistletoe or have just started thinking about it, here are some fresh ideas on using flowers to make special looks this season.
Smaller flower arrangements are practical and pretty
Many of us will be hosting holiday dinners and want to highlight a pretty table. Rather than one large floral centerpiece, use a collection of smaller flower arrangements.
“Group flowers in smaller containers and scatter them down the center of your table with candles in between,” explains Carol Caggiano, freelance floral designer, AIFD, PFCI. “It won’t take up as much room on the table as a big centerpiece does, but you’ll have flowers all along the table.”
This idea also works well for mantelpieces and coffee tables.
As for containers, the possibilities are endless. Try clay pots for a country look, glass cubes for sleek style or classic urns for a more formal feel. Vary the containers’ size, and unify your arrangement by keeping their color or material the same.
If you’re having more than one party, use the same containers and change the color of the flowers and candles.
Don’t forget the cook! And where guests always go …
Additionally, when you’re buying party flowers, don’t forget a bunch for the kitchen. “We spend so much time there,” says Caggiano. “It’s really important to have a small vase of fresh flowers for the person doing the work there.”
(What a great idea! Because you know that at any gathering, people just tend to congregate in the kitchen, no matter how many chairs and sofas you have elsewhere. Someday, I’ll figure that one out.)
Anyway, Caggiano also points out that bud vases with small, fragrant blossoms for guest bathrooms is a lovely touch. These flowers also pair nicely with candles.
A fresh touch, literally
As for Christmas garlands and wreaths, Caggiano has a fun and easy way to give these pieces more pizzazz. Just tuck in some fresh materials to add texture and fragrance.
Choose a low-maintenance fresh component, ie one that won’t need much water. Evergreen, heather or holly come to mind first, but you might also consider magnolia leaves, seeded eucalyptus, lemon leaves, salal, statice or hydrangea (varieties that dry).
“The fresh and the permanent combine easily, and it’s not expensive,” says Caggiano. “And a broad leaf like magnolia is such a wonderful contrast to the needles of the evergreen, cedar and pine.”
Touch any of these items with floral paint (available at craft stores) in gold, copper or silver for extra holiday magic.
Are you decorating with flowers this month? If you like your look, snap a pic and send it in to flower blog!
