Vintage and antique bowls , vases and containers offer a unique canvas for floral arrangements. These pieces, can become family heirlooms, carry a history and beauty that modern items can't replicate. When styling these bowls with flowers, consider the era and design of the bowl to guide your floral selection. For a Victorian-era bowl, opt for soft, romantic flowers like peonies, roses, or gardenias. The key is to create a look that feels gathered from the garden, echoing the naturalistic style of the period.

Tip: Use a floral frog or chicken wire at the bottom of the bowl to keep stems in place, allowing for a more controlled and intricate arrangement.

We added leaves before planting hyacinths and daffodils in vintage and contemporary glass

Modern Vases for a Contemporary Twist

Modern glass vases offer a clean, minimalist backdrop that allows the flowers to shine. For these types of arrangements, consider using bold, singular blooms or a monochromatic color scheme to create impact. Think along the lines of a tall, sleek vase with branches of cherry blossoms for a striking display, or a round, bulbous vase filled with an abundance of hydrangeas for a soft, cloud-like effect.

Look at how different this table looks with a vase with different blooms

A frog has been used to keep these few stems in this colourful bowl

Tip: When working with clear vases, pay attention to the water quality and stem placement, as everything is visible. This transparency can be used to your advantage by creating interesting underwater landscapes with stones, glass beads, or even a layer of leaves.

Combining Flowers with Glassware

When combining flowers with glassware, balance and proportion are key. Here are some general guidelines to follow:

• Scale and Proportion: Ensure the size of the floral arrangement is in proportion to the glassware. A small, delicate bowl should not be overwhelmed by large, towering blooms. Similarly, a large vase calls for a more substantial arrangement.

• Color Coordination: Consider the color of the glassware and how it complements or contrasts with the flowers. A cobalt blue vase might pair beautifully with bright yellow sunflowers or orange marigolds, creating a vibrant contrast.

• Texture and Form: Play with different textures and forms, both in the glassware and the flowers chosen. A smooth, geometric vase might be offset nicely with the organic, wild shapes of wildflowers or grasses.

Use flowers to complement a painting

note how the stems have been cut here to give a different height to the same pieces

To ensure your floral arrangements last as long as possible, keep the following in mind:

• Change the water regularly, every two to three days, to prevent bacteria growth.
• Trim the stems at an angle before placing them in the vase to allow for better water absorption, especially for woody stems.
• Keep the arrangements away from direct sunlight and heat sources to preserve their freshness.

Conclusion

Styling glassware with flowers is an art form that allows for endless creativity. Whether you're drawn to the character of vintage and antique bowls or the sleek simplicity of modern vases, there's a world of possibilities at your fingertips. By following these tips and allowing your personal style to shine through, you can create beautiful, eye-catching displays that breathe life into your home decor. Let the beauty of flowers and the elegance of glassware inspire you to create your own unique arrangements that reflect your taste and the essence of your home.

the same vase/candleholder looks so different depending on type and number of tulips