Fresh flowers have long been admired for their beauty and perfumed scents. Though you might be inclined just to stick fresh flowers in a vase willy-nilly, there’s actually an art to creating eye-catching, decorative floral arrangements. Flower arranging isn’t just for professional florists or floral designers: anyone with a little imagination can learn to craft stunning pieces. This guide covers the basic principles and techniques of flower arranging so you can design professional-looking creations any time of year.
A Brief History of Flower Arranging
Flowers have been used throughout history to beautify everyday life and mark special occasions. Various cultures have influenced the art of flower arranging as we know it today, including:
- China: Some of the earliest flower arranging on record can be traced to China, where long-held Buddhist beliefs and folklore gave rise to minimalist floral designs and the assignment of specific meanings to individual flowers. China is also widely considered the first culture to use containers of water to prolong the lives of cut flowers.
- Japan: Early Japanese flower arranging was heavily influenced by the Chinese. Japan was home to the first school of flower arranging, in which shape and form were emphasized in design. The Japanese also recognized the relaxing and meditative benefits of flower arranging.
- Egypt: The Egyptians tended to use flowers for ceremonial purposes, making wearable garlands and wreaths. Plant materials and carvings of flowers and have been found in ancient Egyptian tombs and pyramids.
- Greece and Rome: The ancient Greeks and Romans used flowers to make wreaths and garlands to wear and use as decorations. They also spread rose petals much like flower girls do at weddings today.
- England: In Victorian England, urns were filled with massive flower arrangements that overflowed with large, showy blooms, such as geraniums and dahlias. Victorians gave meanings to individual flowers: gardenias represented ecstasy, oregano meant joy, ivy symbolized fidelity and marriage, and red roses signified love, as they still do today.
Why Arrange Flowers?
A well-thought-out flower arrangement presents the natural beauty of freshly picked blooms to its greatest effect. You can use floral arrangements to:
- Decorate your home or office
- Give your table a centerpiece
- Liven up parties and celebrations
- Accessorize your wardrobe
- Present a thoughtful gift for birthdays, housewarming parties, and engagements and as a show of sympathy
Simple, Everyday Flower Arrangements for the Home
Flower arrangements make inspired focal points for just about any spot under your roof. You don’t need a special occasion to use flowers to spruce up your home. Here are a few room-by-room ideas for everyday decorating:
- In the kitchen: An arrangement of brightly colored flowers, such as gerbera daisies, provides the perfect pick-me-up as you enjoy your morning coffee.
- In the bedroom: A small arrangement of roses promotes an atmosphere of rest and romance.
- In the foyer: An arrangement of vibrant blooms, such as peonies, at the front door makes a memorable first impression.
- In the guest room: Welcome houseguests by placing an arrangement of charming daffodils on the nightstand.
- In the bathroom: Add a touch of class with an arrangement of miniature carnations—long-lasting blooms that act as natural air fresheners.
- In the dining room: An elegant centerpiece of lush snapdragons creates an intimate dining environment.
