Phalaenopsis and Passion Vine

An Ikebana inspired design of phalaenopsis orchids, passion flower vine and sedum. Designed to look like it's growing from a rock-like container with a manzanita branch.

structure

This past weekend I was at the Illinois State Floral Association's conference and had the honor of assisting Hitomi Gilliam. I used to build armatures and structures for my designs but was apparently quite lazy about it. River cane, curled and bound Midollino stems and red ranunculus in a cube vase. Bottom; a structure of fibersticks affixed to a metal stand that I assisted Hitomi with - a 4.5 ft. armature constructed in all too little time. When I get some appropriate flowers we'll talk about her "neo tropica" approach. Thanks Frankie, Shaun, Garrett, Arthur and Adam for a great time and some serious design inspiration!

Japanese shabby chic centerpiece

A single red rose atop a tripod of painted and distressed reeds with lily grass, tied with raffia and set in a glass ming bowl with river rocks. One of those wonderful moments when a bride is telling you her vision and you say "hold on, I  know just what you want." She clapped her hands in delight and laughed when I told her that the lily grass might get in the dessert. The most time consuming part of this design is waiting for the paint to dry.

ikebana

With the current design trends it's been a long time since I have done any Japanese inspired designs. Keeping in mind that the most important aspect of design is your choice of elements, this is very good exercise. 2 leucadendron stems, 2 croton leaves, curly willow, a touch of yarrow and hypericum berries and Bob's your uncle. Balance and line.