FLOWERS…who doesn’t like flowers? Well, as a Toronto designer, the rule is that you either go to the wholesale shops at the corner of Avenue and Davenport or you just don’t bother. Why? You always get the best selection at the lowest prices. I like to visit each and every one of the stores on that tiny strip before I make my purchases so I can see which flowers are the freshest. They must make a killing because I often find myself spending a minimum of $50 every time! I just can’t say no to pretty things.
But there are instances when you just don’t have access or time to go tothe "Av & Dav" in your city, and the only choice is to grab the typical “grocery store” bundle. It’s essentially a buffet of flowers that you get for $12.99 but you’re not very satisfied because it looks like you just took off the wrapping and stuck the entire bouquet into a vase. Well, that’s what you did, right? haha!
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But what if I promised you you could create something fun, interesting and, most of all, EASY, out of your generic supermarket flowers? Check out these three easy steps to making fresh and fabulous floral arrangments.
STEP 1 - Remove the wrapping and deconstruct the bouquet. (Essentially, put them into separate piles according to type of flower and colour)
STEP 2 - Find vessels or vases around the house. The more the better! In this case, I’ve chosen to use stemless wine glasses and champagne flutes. I’ve got lots of those lying around the house!! And the best part …I didn’t have to spend a dime.
STEP 3 - Place each grouping of flowers in a separate glass and put them together as a collection. Et voila…
It’s simple and modern, without having the “store bought” look.
Anyone without a green thumb can do this! Now, here are a few pointers in creating some variety.
Don’t be afraid to experiment! In the third image, I decided to cut off the stems and place the flowers inside the glass. You want to create as much variety in height so that at every level, there are pops of colour.
GO WILD! Now, if you do get a chance to go to a wholesale flower shop, then don’t buy the usual suspects. Try unexpected combinations and I will assure you that anyone who comes over for dinner and sees your masterpiece, they will comment on it!
Roses are pretty but when paired with baby’s breath, I start to cringe. In the fourth slide, grasses add a fun twist and pump up the volume. Or - check out the fifth slide - how about hydrangeas paired with something tropical?
The last image in the gallery has a slightly more sculptural feel to it - I wrapped the stems with a large leaf to give it a more refined zen look.
Whatever you do, just remember: To keep your arrangements looking as fresh as can be, try unexpected combinations and create asymmetry and soon enough, you’ll be a PRO!
Enjoy,
CHERYL xo
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