In a series of three blogs, I show you seven of my autumnal designs—based on the lovely collection of Marginpar—and explain all about the flowers and techniques. This is my second blog, where we will go yellow and purple, two distinct colors that may not sound like fall, but I bet you think differently after seeing these and reading my explanation...
Autumn might be most often seen in deep oranges, rich reds, and warm browns, but there’s so much more potential to explore. Today, we focus on the yellows and purples, colors that add a refreshing twist to seasonal arrangements. These colors remind us that autumn doesn’t have to follow the rules. Instead, it can be lively, playful, and unexpected. The Marginpar collection provides just the right flowers to make this vision a reality, allowing us to bring something unique and memorable to the season.
From Yellow Love...
Craspedia has a special place in these designs. I love this flower so much! Not only its shape, color, and simplicity but also the fantastic playfulness of its fibers. This Craspedia is a very durable flower, and a florist can use it for any style. In this case, I’ve used the HR The Wireman kenzan, which fits perfectly into the containers from Nyester Kft (a Hungarian wholesaler). The kenzan allows the Craspedia to stand firmly while keeping its natural, airy flow, making the arrangement both structured and delightfully whimsical.
I even added Clematis Amazing® Kibo and some dried Lagurus to achieve the most exciting and airy effect. Clematis Kibo brings a touch of elegance with its soft petals, contrasting beautifully with the playful roundness of Craspedia. Meanwhile, the Lagurus, with its feathery texture, adds that gentle, wispy feel. When these elements come together, they create a yellow palette that feels both lively and soft, showcasing a unique side of autumn that we don’t often see.
Flowers used in these designs: Clematis Amazing® Kibo, Craspedia Paintball Pop, and Talinum Long John.
... to Purple Magic
In my next arrangement, we’re embracing the mysterious allure of purple. First, I made a beautiful frame of wool from the Lehner Wool collection, attaching it around the wreath base. I used a classic Oasis foam wreath, soaking it well to ensure the flowers have the moisture they need. To give this arrangement its distinct personality, I chose ingredients that bring depth and texture.
Aster, Clematis Kibo, Helleborus, and Limonium all come together here. Each flower adds its own texture and shape, building a layered, dimensional look.
Of course, before inserting them into the foam, I cut back all the stems with a knife to help the flowers last longer. It’s a small step, but one that makes a difference in the arrangement’s longevity. And, of course, I didn't forget to use the Finishing Touch floral spray, a simple yet effective way to keep the blooms fresh for as long as possible.
Flowers used in these designs: Aster Dark Milka, Clematis Amazing® Kibo, Limonium Safora Dark Blue, and Helleborus Mammoth Pink.
Techniques for a Lasting Display
One of the main challenges in floral design, especially with seasonal arrangements, is keeping the flowers looking fresh. Using floral foam might feel a bit traditional, but it’s still a staple for creating a long-lasting, structured arrangement. Here’s a tip: always soak the foam thoroughly until it’s fully saturated, and when cutting the stems, do so at an angle with a sharp knife. This way, each stem has a good surface area for water uptake, which is especially important when working with seasonal flowers that might already have a shorter vase life.
When working with different flower varieties, it’s crucial to know their specific needs. For instance, Clematis benefits from a longer drink before being added to the arrangement, while Craspedia can hold its own with minimal water, making it a great companion for drier spaces. Combining flowers with varying water needs, you can create a balanced arrangement that will hold up well over time.
To finish, I always like to use Finishing Touch floral spray. It’s one of those simple steps that extend the life of each bloom, allowing the whole arrangement to hold up a bit longer, especially in indoor settings where the air can be dry. A little spray goes a long way in preserving the look of each flower, keeping it fresh and vibrant in a subtle way that’s perfect for autumn decor.
Autumnal Transformation With Yellow and Purple
Autumn, at its core, is a season of transformation, and our designs should reflect that. By using unexpected colors like yellow and purple, we’re reimagining what fall can be, bringing out the season’s gentle, surprising side. These arrangements, with the Marginpar collection’s help, bring a touch of freshness and an innovative spirit to a season that’s often locked into tradition. So, the next time you’re creating for autumn, think beyond the usual palette. Try these tones and textures to create something that feels both familiar and refreshingly different.
Overall credits: flowers by Marginpar, decoration and materials by Lehner Stylit, H & R The Wire Man, and Magyar Szárazvirág, designs by Krisztián Kövér.
