Annual Homes & Design Issue
When hosting, a floral centerpiece can elevate a tablescape to new heights. Here, Joe Jumper, owner of The Clay Pot, shares his process for putting together a show-stopping centerpiece with a bright and colorful arrangement perfect for a summertime soirée.
Photography by Rich Smith
I always like picking out a rose that will pop in the centerpiece. Here, I’ve used a 3D rose. Its citrus color is bright and cheerful and complements the green.
Mixing textures of a variety of different flowers adds interest to the centerpiece. Here, I’ve added Veronica in hot pink to create different levels. It’s not a large flower, but it adds a bold touch to the centerpiece.
To build the base of the centerpiece, I always begin with the largest flower to create the shape of the arrangement. Here, I have used five large chartreuse hydrangeas as my base. I also added Italian and Israeli ruscus for my greenery to create the structure.
Whenever possible, I like to use locally grown flowers from flower farms in our area. We are very lucky to have such an endless supply of local growers during the summer months. Here, I have used salvia, bee balm, and astilbe from Creekside Flower Farm. Locally grown flowers add that garden element to the centerpiece.
When selecting a container, anytime you can put the flowers directly in water, the flowers will hold up so much longer. Here, I have used a clear, wide cylinder vase for the centerpiece. Make sure you strip any leaves that will be down in the water to help your water stay fresh longer.
