8 Steps to a Fresh Flower Arrangement

The same steps I use for every arrangement, from a tiny jar to a holiday centerpiece. Check them off as you go.

1
Get inspired!
Browse my Pinterest boards (@angtheflowerteacher) and save what makes your heart happy. Notice the colors and shapes you keep coming back to.
2
Gather + clean materials
Wash your vases. Clean and process your flowers so they're fresh and ready to drink.
3
Prepare your vase or container
Use tape, floral frogs, a malleable twig base, or a combo of these. Add fresh lukewarm water and floral food, and begin!
Foam or foam-free?Here in the Midwest, lots of us still use floral foam, especially for long, low centerpieces and outdoor arrangements. If you use it, float it on a bucket of water and let it sink on its own to soak. I'll provide inspiration + education around shifting from foam to more earth-friendly floral mechanics.
4
Build a base with greens
Your greens set the shape and hold everything that comes next.
5
Place vines, pods, flowers, berries + filler
Vines first if you're using them, then large pods, flowers, berries, and filler last.
6
Create balance
Even it out with greens placed on purpose. Step away, take a lap, come back with fresh eyes. Notice what you like. Find a balance.
7
Add ribbon, if you like
A little ribbon makes it feel like a gift.
8
Place + style
Give it a home and make it shine.
- With candles
- On a tray
- By a statue
- In a series of three
- On the mantel
- Center of the table
- On a table runner
- By the napkins
- Against the wall
- Next to the mirror

Happy designing!

Want more? Join The Twelve Tables for seasonal flower inspiration.

Get inspired!