Non-floral components are key to a polished bouquet that has a "WOW" factor. That is why this article has two parts: Part 1 for flowers, Part 2 for non-floral components. When you think about what type of bouquet or arrangement you want to send to a friend, you likely think about what flower(s) you want to be included. When you think about a centerpiece for your table, you think about what flowers would coordinate with your décor. There is nothing wrong with thinking of flowers first. However, it is easy to think of foliage and branches as "filler", that is the danger. That is the mistake that leads to a full bouquet that looks unfinished. Remember, a focal point pops when it is surrounded by accents. Let's look at a few options!
Ferns
Ferns are commonly used in bouquets throughout the year. Ferns are versatile. Are you in the mood for a bright and bold bouquet? Do you prefer a more mysterious, dark bouquet? Either way, there are varieties of ferns that will coordinate with your scheme and help solidify the feeling you are aiming to achieve. Ferns do a great job at filling gaps while not being overbearing. They also do a great job at creating the shape/flow of the arrangement.
Some varieties of ferns are quite easy to grow; so much so that you do not need a plot of land. I have seen school fundraisers sell potted ferns that matured and thrived splendidly. They grew so thick that several clippings could have been gleaned without anyone knowing the difference. However, the potted variety that I am speaking of did not have an abundance of height with which to work. When you are looking at varieties of ferns, be sure that you choose a type that has a long enough stem to work with your arrangement. Depending upon the arrangement, you may be able to incorporate a couple of different types of ferns to accentuate your floral elements.
"Great bouquets convey an emotion. Brilliant arrangements cultivate an atmosphere"
Oak Branches
Oak branches are readily available in most areas and embody the essence of fall. You get bonus points if you can find a branch with acorns. This is also an easy way to coordinate your centerpiece with the view you get to enjoy just outside your window. As Fall brings a spectrum of color into our lives, be thoughtful of the color scheme you plan to use for your bouquet and collect branches that include branches of your preferred color. Check out this example from Marthastewart.com.
There are a couple of things to keep in mind. If you are clipping branches from the backyard, make sure that you are not bringing any hitchhikers into your home in the form of ants or bugs. It is also a good idea to use a damp cloth to wipe away any loose debris. Giving the branches a light cleaning will also help keep bacteria growth at bay. Also, remember to trim the branch in such a way that none of the leaves end up in the water. Foliage in the water also contributes to bacteria growth.
Queens Lace
This is yet another option that can easily be found in the wild (depending upon where you live). Since Queens Lace is often found in white and green, it is well suited to be incorporated into nearly any arrangement. Another convenient quality of queen's lace is that its stems have decent length to work with. Lastly, due to the shallow, wide nature of the bloom, it is easy to both fill gaps and slips into narrow areas for a pop of interest.
One word of caution, if you plan to source your Queens Lace from the wild, be sure that you are not mistakenly harvesting her evil twin sister, Poison Hemlock. The two species look very much alike. There are a few ways to tell the difference, but the two easiest indicators are as follows:
1.Smooth vs. Hairy Stems – Poison Hemlock has a smooth stem. Sometimes you may see spots on the stem. Queens Lace, on the other hand, has a hairy or fuzzy stem.
2.Hollow vs. Solid Stem – Poison Hemlock has a hollow/tubular stem, while Queens Lace has a solid stem.
If you accidentally pick some Poison Hemlock, be sure to thoroughly wash your hands as quickly as possible. The weed's juices can cause a similar allergic reaction to poison ivy. It is also toxic to pets.
Amaranth
Amaranth is a wonderful plant. Not only does it come in various colors and forms, but it is also edible! So if you get lost in the woods you will have the weigh out whether you want to eat the amaranth or save it for a killer bouquet. Either way, you are a winner. Aside from the nutritional value of amaranth, it can provide a great pattern to your bouquet. Most of your elements will likely have a more rigid stem and stand vertically. Amaranth drapes for the most part. When incorporated throughout the bouquet, the downturned plumes create a nice contrast to the foliage and blooms around them.
Purple Artichoke
This accent is not used as often as most of the rest of the accents discussed in this article, but that is the very reason it should not be overlooked. Create a feeling of intrigue or mystery. The way the dark purple transitions to various shades of green create a sense of depth within itself, not to mention the arrangement that it is complimenting. If you are in the mood to decorate a bit early and want to squeeze in a devious arrangement for Halloween, this accent is a must!
Eucalyptus
Yet another piece of foliage that comes in several leaf shapes and colors (shades of green to be specific), this accent finds its way onto a lot of different applications. Eucalyptus garland has been quite popular at outdoor wedding receptions. Small branches of eucalyptus can easily be incorporated into bouquets. The broad, round "silver drop" leaf shapes can provide a nice contrast to other narrower accents. The way the leaves are attached to the branch is also very unique.
For an easy table centerpiece, combine several branches of eucalyptus (with a narrower leaf) with other fall festive accents on your dining room table. It's an easy, modern take on a Thanksgiving tablescape.
We hope that both parts 1 and 2 of this article have sparked some creative ideas in your mind that you cannot help but bring into your home. Tandem Studio Floral uses some of the flowers and accents mentioned in these articles more than others. That does not mean that any one item is better than another. Going with a more popular arrangement provides a better chance that more people with like it. Going with a more eclectic combination of flowers and accents increases the chances of the "Wow!" factor. Either way, you cannot lose as long as the bouquets and arrangements you surround yourself with create the atmosphere you desire. If you want some suggestions to dial in your ideas, or just want to take a gander at our inspirations, give us a call or stop by the store. We are located in Byron Center, MI and we deliver to all of Grand Rapids, MI. Let us know how we can serve you best. Enjoy the season!
