The Bud Vase
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“I’d suggest every homeowner have a collection of bud vases,” says Lee. “They’re so simple but effective. You can put them in the bathroom, kitchen, or guest bedroom with just a single bloom in them.” Rather than purchasing a matching set, build a collection unique to you. “It’s a great thing to snag when you are traveling,” she says. And while these little beauties look fabulous solo, they also can be grouped together to create an easy, no-hassle centerpiece. If your bud vase collection is still in its infancy, pretty barware like julep cups are a great choice, too.
The Cylindrical Vase
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“This classic shape is easy to find. You’ve probably received an arrangement or two from your local florist in this style,” Lee says. Despite their popularity, they can be deceptively tricky to get right. To give your arrangements a more polished and professional look, keep things simple. “Only fill them with one type of flower, and don’t overfill. Less is more.” she says. “The bloom doesn’t have to be anything fancy like peonies. A bunch of sunflowers or hydrangeas or azaleas clipped from the yard works just as well.” And remember to consider proportions: You don’t want the base of your blooms sitting on the lip of the vase. “Also, be sure to cut the stems at different lengths, which will give your eye different planes to work with,” says Lee.
The Camellia Bowl
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If you’re looking for an easy solution, it doesn’t get much simpler than this classic Southern standby. A shallow bowl (typically glass or crystal) with a wide mouth, it could also be used to serve luncheon sides like fruit and pasta salads, but come winter, it’s ideally suited to displaying camellias—although any flat-faced bloom with sturdy leaves like magnolias, gardenias, and even climbing roses will work. Simply, snip a few blossoms from the backyard and gently set them in the bowl filled with a couple of inches of water. “Remember these petals brown and bruise easily, so you’ll want to clip enough of the stem to ensure the flower is floating on foliage,” Lee says.
The Compote
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Requiring a little more work than the three previous styles, a compote or footed bowl is a good choice for more elaborate arrangements. “The elegant shape lends itself better to multiple varieties and greenery,” Lee says. Typically made of glass, compotes can be lined with moss or aspidistra leaves to hide whatever mechanics—tape grid, foam, etc.—you might need to secure your arrangement.
Other Vessels
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Don’t be afraid to think outside the box; your vessel doesn’t have to be a traditional vase. Blue-and-white ginger jars. Antique champagne buckets and jugs. Rustic pottery. Even wooden dough bowls. “Anything that’s watertight—unless you’re going to use a plastic plant liner—can be a vase,” Lee says.
