Floral Centerpieces

Watch our Floral Centerpiece video for more great tips for your arrangement!

Don’t be intimidated by expensive florists! Arrange your own breathtaking floral arrangement in just a few fun and easy steps. The right centerpiece can bring together the décor at your next outdoor event – and “wow” your guests in the process! Follow these tips to create a floral centerpiece as tasteful as it is unique.

1. Choose a Container

Remember: the container sets the tone. So be creative! Odd shapes and unusual materials bring added flair to any centerpiece.

• Try a wooden crate that comes with fruit you purchase, or find an old silver piece that sits unused on your shelves.
• Impress your guests without blocking their view! At a dining table, the centerpiece should occupy about 20% of the table, but should never be over 2 feet tall.
• At a buffet, go as tall as you like! Keep the arrangement about 2/3 higher than your container.

2. Floral Foam

Avoid the stress of finding waterproof vases! Instead, pick up a foam block from your local market and let your flowers soak inside for 15 minutes. They’ll be ready to arrange with half the hassle.

Remember to coordinate flower colors with the natural décor of the room.

3. Pick Your Flowers

Color Dos and Don’ts:

• Coordinate colors with the natural décor of the room: wallpaper and table linens.
• In Spring and Summer, add bright colors found in seasonal flowers such as hydrangeas, roses, peonies, tulips, and orchids.
• Make smart combinations: red with sunset colors, blue with green, yellow, and pastels. Or: keep it simple and go monochromatic.
• Variety is important: be sure to use three and four different colors.

Expert Tip: Consider the final height of your centerpiece. Choose taller flowers like peonies for a buffet, or shorter flowers like daffodils or hyacinths in a dining room.

Begin your arrangement with greenery, then move on to larger flowers.

4. Build Your Centerpiece

Place the soaked foam block into the container, securing the flowers and any greenery by placing stems approximately 3 inches deep into the foam. To keep the centerpiece looking full:

• Use greenery first, followed by larger flowers.
• Spread flowers randomly to cover all sides of the container.
• Study the arrangement from every angle, making sure to fill any gaps.

The finished centerpiece!

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