Create a Fruit and Flower Centerpiece

Design your centerpiece with a large array of flowers along with fresh fruits and vegetables.

Here are some steps to guide you:

1. Go through your closets and look for a large pasta dish, fruit bowl, soup tureen or other type of container. Make sure that whatever you choose will fit in with the decor of your dinner table. Remember too, that the texture, size and color of the container will affect how you select and design your flowers and fruits.
2. Soak a wedge of floral foam (it can be bought at a craft store or florist shop) and let it drain.
3. Cut the foam or shape it with a sharp knife to fit in the bottom of your container.
4. Place the foam in the container so that it fits in securely and easily. Add some flower food.

5. Have flowers that you have already cut and conditioned ready to be positioned in the foam. When I select flowers for centerpiece arrangements, I most often buy larger quantities of one type (rarely fewer than 6 and at least 12) of flowers. Calla lilies, roses, gerberas, tulips, freesias and celosias are plentiful this time of year. Also buy some greenery and branches to have handy as filler.
6. When you begin to place the flowers in the foam, just let your eye lead the way. Keep on adding different colors and textures until you are satisfied. Make sure you turn the arrangement and work from different angles so that you can maintain a fresh perspective. Don't be afraid to cut, add and amend. Remember, this process is all about pleasing your own eye. I love for my centerpieces to have a very full look without seeming overcrowded.
7. Once you add your flowers, fill in the blanks with pears, apples, slender Italian eggplants and red peppers. Floral sticks and wires work great for extravagant looks. Use wire to allow fruits (grapes are perfect for this effect) to hang over the side of your container as flowers peek out between fresh vegetables.

   Watch Video: Tips for Centerpieces