How to Make Flower Arrangements for a Buffet Table in Tall Vases

Slim and tall vases do not block guests from seeing one another.

Floral arrangements make common centerpieces at weddings, class reunions, bridal showers and other events. Tall vases can pose a challenge at tables where guests are dining, as guests may have to look around the vase to see others at the table. Choosing slim arrangements and transparent or narrow vases can reduce guest discomfort and add an elegant touch to any event. Add a few drops of food coloring to the arrangements' water for an extra decorative touch.

Things You'll Need

• Floral tape
• Tall vase
• Flowers
• Knife

Instructions

1. Consider your choice of flowers, as well as any color themes for the buffet table. Baby's breath, roses, carnations, daisies and tulips can serve as excellent choices for tall vases. Some flowers, such as tulips and roses, are also sold in a variety of colors.

2. Measure the chosen flowers from tip to head. Subtract an inch or two from this number, as the stems of the flowers will get cut. Ideally, at least 2 inches of each flower will poke out above the top of the vase. Ask a florist about tall vases that will flatter your choice of flowers or, taking your measurements, find a vase that is a few inches shorter than the flowers.

3. Remove thorns, leaves and damaged petals from each of the flowers with your hands. Use a knife to cut the stems of the flowers at a 45-degree angle, removing an inch or two from the bottom of the stems. Place the flowers in cool or lukewarm water.

4. Take four flowers and arrange them in the shape of a square. The bottoms of the stems and the heads of each flower should line up to be even. Tie floral tape around the stems to secure the flowers in the square shape a few inches below the bottom of the flowers' petals.

5. Add flowers individually in a circle around the first four flowers to create a dome shape. Add more floral tape a few inches below the bottom of the flowers' petals to secure the floral arrangement's shape. Insert the flowers into a tall vase filled with cool or lukewarm water. Add a drop of lemon-lime soda pop or bleach to the water to promote longevity.

Tips & Warnings

• Place only one tall centerpiece on each table, preferably in the center of the table, to keep guests from having to lean over to see one another.

• If the flowers are too short for the vase but the mouth of the vase is wide, insert something into the vase to serve as a prop for the flowers. A layer of pebbles, seashells or decorative gems at the bottom can boost the flowers above the top of the vase.

References

• The Knot: DIY Wedding Flowers: Homemade Wedding Centerpieces
• HGTV; 5 Easy-to-Create Centerpieces; Erinn Valencich
• Brides; The 10 Best Wedding Flower Ideas of 2010; Cari Wolfert
• Martha Stewart Weddings: Floral Wedding Centerpieces