Winter Arranging 101: Keeping Floral Design Alive During the Darker Months
For many florists, I think, the winter months offer a welcome respite—a well-deserved and much-needed change of pace from our busier seasons. We tend to retreat into evergreens and berries through December and call it a day. Lately I’ve realized that the darker months of the year—in Pittsburgh I’m talking about January, February, and March—hold just as much possibility for floral beauty as spring or summer. The palettes become quieter, of course, and the textures become richer, but the mood shift toward introspection and elegance is special in its own way.
Here’s how I keep winter flowers feeling elevated and full of life.
Embrace soft, winter-light color profiles. Whites creams, cappuccino tones, mauves, dusty pinks, sagey greens, and champagne hues are as luxurious as it gets without becoming heavy or themey.
Use branches as architecture. Winter branches like dogwood, curly willow, or flower quince (if you can find it) create height and movement. They make arrangements feel sculptural and elevated—like pieces of art.
Incorporate evergreens sparingly. Use cedar or pine as accents, not the main event. A touch of evergreen brings fragrance and depth without overpowering the piece.
Choose petal-forward blooms. Ranunculus, anemones, amaryllis, reflexed roses, lisianthus—these flowers bring softness and romance to an otherwise stark time of year.
Focus on gesture. Winter arrangements shine when there’s intention behind the placement of each stem. Work with patience and restraint.
Let the arrangement breathe. Negative space matters! A little air around each bloom creates that curated, effortlessly elegant Bloom Library style.