Arrangements have come a long way since the feathers (see 1)! This blog is about artificial floral and greenery only. Since I am based on cost, I can not see investing in something that will die in a matter of days! Silk arrangements can be taken apart and redone for years as style and trends change.
Sometimes arrangements can be intimidating, but if you follow a few rules your chances are better!
First let's critique! Yes, everything is subjective, so if you disagree that is OK!
Feathers can be on trend..... But in picture 1, I am sorry we left the 90's quite a few years ago! Just sayin! If you have a dated or tired arrangement, have no fear of taking it apart! What do you have to lose?
Rule of Thirds
Scale is everything! In above pictures 2 & 4, the container takes over the arrangement.
Typically the focus should be on the arrangement not the vase/container. So in general the container should be 1/3 of the size of the arrangement - either horizontal or vertical. As the example on the left shows.
Containers
For artificial floral and greenery the best choices is a ceramic or opaque glass, if you chose to use clear glass then fill with rocks or other filler. With artificial stems the bases of the stems will never look real. The purchased artificial greenery in glass is typically filled with acrylic and looks like water (see 3). Then you have no options to take apart and repurpose these items.
Where is the arrangement being placed?
First figure out if you want the arrangement to be seen from all angles or is it against a wall? This arrangement was designed large scale and to be placed in an entry way.
A quick video on the creation....
If the arrangement is on a table in the center of foyer then all angles need to be correct.
Centerpieces
Look for an entire blog devoted to centerpieces. If you have guests sitting between the centerpiece - PLEASE keep it below eye level. How many weddings have you attended where you are ducking around the centerpiece to hear, see or make eye contact with another guest!
Cost
The Peony arrangement in pic 3 above retails for $199! Yikes! With a container, a few rocks or filler you could create this for around $30-$40 and have the ability to redo it at a later point. Artificial stems are an investment but much less than real flowers or purchased arrangements. Like this below for.... $599!
Tips & Tricks
Hobby Lobby has the best selection around here... don't buy unless on sale for 50% off. They run the sale every other week.
I have also discovered shein.com, you will have to wait and order way more than you think you will need! Containers and vases not the best from them.
Buy a good wire cutter! Like these from Amazon for $11.79. Your hands will thank you!
Fold the stems instead of cutting the stems, if you can - if you redo the arrangement, you will have more options for rearrangement. No question you will end cutting most, but try to keep it to the minimum.
Enjoy creating!
Cheers!
Laurie