Flowers by Design

Have you ever wondered how OKA create their fabulous faux floral displays?

I was lucky enough to be invited to an in-store event hosted by Bunched by OKA which revealed some of their trade secrets.

Resident florist, Natalie, demonstrated how she creates these statement arrangements.

Using easy to follow steps she described how to achieve a flower based arrangement.

Tips

Here are some simple tips which she shared with the entranced audience:

Choose an odd number of stems; say 1, 3 or 5
Choose a foliage with a similar colour leaf to the flowers
Shake out foliage to separate leaves
Open up flower heads and bend forward
Bend stems for correct height; rule of thumb is 1.5 times the height of the vase
If the stems are too short then use paper or towels to pack the bottom of the vase
Build the height by creating “rings”

In the is example Natalie used Eucalyptus, Peonies, Roses, and Paniculatas, alternating them to create the first ring

For the second ring measure height of stems and bend to correct length before adding
Form triangles by adding a single stem between two of the same variety in the first ring
Spin the vase as you work rather than walk around it
The second and third rings add height to the display
Finally create the third ring by repeating the process
A single stem in the centre of the arrangement may be used to complete the process

The end result

Update faux arrangements with seasonal blooms (fresh of faux) to remain current
Add a scented reed stick to further add to the illusion

Inspired by OKA

Inspired by the realistic quality of OKA’s faux flower arrangement I couldn’t resist an investment of my own.

A Bank Holiday trip to Ikea opened my eyes to the variety of faux flowers that they stock.

I tend to have Eucalyptus in the house during the winter season as I love its aroma. Seeing a realistic faux version I realised that I could have it year round.

Another of my favourite plants is the Lupin which I grow in my herbaceous border. Again, seeing a silk version on sale inspired me to make a further purchase.

Once home I retrieved a favourite vase and set to work.

Following the general rule-of-thumb I used 5 eucalyptus stems and 3 lupins. I shook them out and teased the leaves and flowers until they looked more natural.

I then placed the foliage in the vase before alternating the flowers in a triangular shape.