5.18.2011

bits of nature » hot pink peonies






i tried to stay stay away from the bright pink peonies at the market (because the snapdragons a couple of weeks ago were hot pink), but the pale or blush pink stems were not looking fresh. so, instead of the soft colors that i originally wanted, i've got another bold arrangement.

i prep the flowers before i start to create a design -- removing leaves and thorns, cutting stems, etc.. when i am working larger flowers, such as peonies, i like to start by grouping a few of them together first, then adding in the smaller buds and accents. once i'm just about finished i tie the arrangement together and place the flowers in the vase. when it's in the vase, or in this case a pitcher, i have a good visual on where i might need to add stems, or rearrange a bit.

and there you have... a pitcher full of peonies! questions? comments? thoughts? i'd love to here 'em.

photos: caroline o'donnell

13 comments:

  1. They do look beautiful they were definatley a good choice

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  2. Oh my gosh these flowers are incredible!!

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  3. i love peonies but they are always seem to be covered in ants. remedies? or just a good shake out before bringing them indoors.

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  4. thanks, everyone! i just answered Katie's question through e-mail, but just in case anyone else has the same one...

    peony buds have a nectar/sap that the ants use as a food source. they ants should go away once the buds open. if not, just give them a good shake before you bring them in the house.

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  5. beautiful pitcher! i love the photos :-)

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  6. what a beautiful bouquet! both flowers go really well together.

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  7. This bouquet is absolutely gorgeous, Caroline! I recently bought some soft pink peonies from Whole Foods that lasted over a week! They're so pretty and I can't wait to grow some in my own garden soon!

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  8. what a beauty! i think you've just inspired me to add some flowers on my desk, too. i need something to brighten up my limited sunlight studio.

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  9. caroline, peonies are my favorite & these bright buds bring that love to a whole new level. xo

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  10. caroline, you're so quick to reply!
    will definitely be keeping my eye out for some peonies this weekend to add to my desk then (sans ants)

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  11. oh my, these are stunning! peonies are the best.

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  12. Absolutely delightful. You know I love me a bouquet of peonies ;)

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