1. ARRANGE JUST ONE VARIETY OF FLOWER PER VASE
A mix of florals is gorgeous but a single type of flower multiplied makes a statement. This is particularly true of stems with large flowerheads, like delphiniums, alliums or hydrangeas.
2. PREPARE YOUR STEMS PROPERLY
Flowers absorb water through their stems, so in order for them to look bountiful in a vase, they need a little preparation. Trimming the stems doesn't just ensure they are the right height for your vase, it will help your blooms to flourish.
Once cut, the stems will re-seal themselves, so snipping them enables flowers to 'drink' the water in the vase. It doesn't take long and you will be rewarded with longer lasting stems.
3. CHOOSE THE RIGHT VASE
The size, shape and color of the vase you place your flowers in will impact how they look. Too wide at the brim and they'll flop about; too narrow and they could look squashed.
It's worth having a selection of vases to hand; long, thin vessels for tall flowers, small vases for shorter arrangements, plus some sized in between.
4. GROUP FLOWERS IN CLUSTERS
In a mixed bouquet with different types and sizes of blooms, some flowers can get a little 'lost' once they're transported to a vase. However, florists have ways to prevent this. 'I recommend designing flowers in clusters within an arrangement, particularly when styling blooms such as chrysanthemums or carnations, as this helps to reinforce the texture and details of the petals,' says Valerie Ghitelman, Vice President of Sourcing and Design, 1-800-Flowers.com.
5. DON'T FORGET FOLIAGE
Professional bouquets from florists usually contain foliage to separate and offset flowers. This gives them room to show their beauty. Opt for Italian Ruscus and Eucalyptus, the current floristry favorites for foliage. 'Florals come in many colors and each flower and color can tell their own story – which provides an array of offerings,' says Valerie. 'Mixing beautiful blooms with greenery is essential in design, and greenery has great longevity.'