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You’ve found the right flowers to give for a special occasion. But have you found the right vase? A vase not only holds and complements the flowers, but it is also a gift in itself long after the flowers are gone.
What exactly is a vase? It is defined as a vessel used primarily for holding flowers. By using your creativity, almost anything can be a vase. If your flowers are fresh, the only real requirement is that the vessel is able to hold water.
In flower markets all over the world, fresh blooms are often stored in galvanized metal buckets. Some may even have designs painted or stenciled on the outside. These buckets are often available at craft stores, as are brightly colored watering cans that make a vibrant statement when holding flowers.
Repurpose pretty items around your house by filling them with flowers. An empty, decorative candle jar or a vintage teapot will take on a new life when used to hold a floral arrangement. These types of unique vases can be customized to suit the tastes of your gift recipient for birthdays, Mother’s Day, or just because.
Perhaps you’re gifting flower buds or a single stem. Some people collect shot glasses or thimbles. Rather than just keeping them in a cabinet, why not use them as bud vases for a single rose bud or a small bunch of violets?
With its curvaceous lines and brilliant colors, an empty perfume bottle would be lovely with a petite bunch of flowers in it. Be sure to rinse the bottle well with soapy water to remove any perfume residue that may harm the delicate flower.
A vintage champagne flute from an antique store or an inherited collection is another elegant way to display a slender floral specimen. This would be an appropriate gift to celebrate a wedding anniversary.
If your arrangement is composed of dried flowers, you have even more options since the vase doesn’t need to be water-tight. Baskets are an excellent choice, as they are available in a broad range of sizes, shapes, and colors and are usually quite affordable. Baskets are a popular choice for those who have country-themed decor in their home.
The lack of water in a dried flower bouquet means that you can use a vase that might otherwise be damaged by exposure to moisture. Vintage bottles or tins with paper labels will be safe from water spots when filled with preserved flowers.
Another fun water-free option is to put a string of battery-powered microlights in a transparent mason jar. Topped with dried flowers, the lights will provide extra interest when lit up in the evening. Look for lights that have a twinkling option for a fairy-garden effect.
Whether you choose to coordinate colors or opt for a vibrant contrast, the vase is a key element in any floral arrangement. By tapping into your creativity and choosing a vase that reflects your gift recipient’s interests, you can create a floral gift that will be fondly remembered long after the blooms have faded.
