We all know that when you go to an event, you’ll rembember the good, bad, and ugly when it comes to the flower arrangements. With the holiday season–and parties–right around the corner, you’ll want your table in pristine condition when you welcome back guests into your home. We sat down with Holly Heider Chapple, the owner and lead designer at Hope Flower Farm in Waterford, to share her insider tips on everything from when to order the perfect bouquet to how to keep your arrangement sustainable.
I’m throwing an at-home soirée. What should I know?
“It’s important that the flowers add to the atmosphere and do not conflict with conversations. Low designs need to be under 14 inches tall; anything larger obstructs vision. Consider the space on the table and the type of food: Are meals plated or buffet-style? If you have platters, try several bud vases scattered around the table.”
When should I order flowers?
“Put in an order two to three weeks out. This allows time to place a special request instead of using whatever is in inventory. [Due to COVID’s impact,] timing is more important as there is a serious flower shortage.”
Seasonality should play a part, right?
“Ordering flowers out of season is typically more costly and less sustainable. If you want flowers that are best for the environment, work with what is available from local flower farmers. The farther it has to travel, the bigger carbon footprint.”
Dried vs. fresh: pros and cons?
“I prefer fresh, although dried flowers have had a huge comeback. If sustainability is of concern, do not purchase dyed products, as they are no longer compostable stems.”
Where else should flowers be when entertaining?
“Put flowers where guests will be the most or in areas that need to be softened. Placing flowers at the entryway makes for a lovely arrival; flowers in the bathroom can make that space a bit more charming.”
What are your favorite at-home arrangements?
“I love gathering whatever is in bloom at the moment. I like mixing colors and celebrating whatever gifts the garden is giving me.”
Feature image courtesy Hope Flowers Farm
This story originally ran in our November issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to our monthly magazine.
