The 5 rules for chic flower arrangements: Secrets from photo shoot stylists Part One

Thanks to a former job that had me managing advertising photo shoots, I spent a few years working with some of LA’s glamorous set. The pro photography tips, craft services, first-hand celeb gossip and interesting run-ins were great, like when I spent the day with Lady Gaga's hair stylist, and the time I was stuck in an elevator with Larry David. But my favorite part was getting to observe the master stylists at work. These stylists make the details of a home or set look perfectly and effortlessly chic every time.  

One of the observations I made across the work of multiple stylists was the particular way flowers were arranged to make a room look its most elegant and glamorous. I’ve taken a stab at quantifying the je ne sais quoi that makes these arrangements so chic:

Rule 1. Use only one type of flower per arrangement.  The mono-floral look is tremendously elegant. It will showcase the architecture of the flower without it getting lost in a busy bouquet, and it will keep you from looking like you tried too hard. 

Peonies

I made this arrangement with balsa wood flowers from here.

Yea there's a cat in this photo. Sorry I'm not sorry.

Monoflorals at our Montecito wedding

Rule 2.  If you want variation, add one or two (max) other shades within the same tone.

Shades of pink peonies from blush to fuschia

Rule 3. If you want to use multiple florals, stick to one color.

Shades of ivory

Rule 4. Small is beautiful. A neat and small arrangement thoughtfully placed will always get noticed.

Rule 5. Before arranging, cut your flowers with a sharp knife instead of scissors and insert them into a vase of hot water. The warm water is more easily absorbed by the flowers. Add flower food or a vinegar/sugar mixture for even greater longevity. 

Exceptions to the rule:  Multifloral arrangements are so beautiful and will always be in style for their freshly picked from the garden vibe. For this look it’s best to use no more than four colors, and to vary the textures and shapes as much as possible for maximum contrast (i.e. the opposite of the above). These floral arrangements work best in neutral rooms so colors don’t compete. 

The next time you receive a home decor magazine or catalog in the mail, see if you can spot any of these tips in action!

p.s. Check ASPCA’s list of plants toxic to dogs and cats before you buy. Lilies and tulips are especially dangerous!