Styling Notes from The Suffolk Nest

Effortlessly elegant, our new faux tree collection is filled with exceptionally realistic pieces that will add a pop of greenery to any room.     Why choose a faux tree? There are so many reasons to consider adding a tree to your interior décor: they make a strong visual statement, add a pop of mood-boosting green to your room, and draw the upwards, making your space feel bigger and brighter. But why choose a faux tree over the real thing? Well, when it comes to low maintenance, you can’t beat faux trees. No matter whether you choose a black olive, lemon, or topiary Buxus, when you opt for a faux tree, you won’t have to worry about watering or pruning them regularly, finding the perfect spot in direct sunlight, or cleaning up fallen leaves. They’re the ideal choice for anyone with a busy schedule. And perhaps the best thing about high quality faux trees is that they’re virtually indistinguishable from their real counterparts. Every detail is considered and beautifully executed, from the texture of the leaves to the shape of the branches, to create a fuss-free alternative that you can enjoy year after year.   Introducing our new faux tree collection  Faux Olive Tree Our new Faux Olive Tree is one of my favourite pieces in the collection. Not only does it instantly make me think about holidays in the sunshine and feasting on fresh olives, but it’s also a tree rich with symbolism. Since Ancient Greece, the olive tree has been used to signify peace, friendship, and healing. It’s not just the meaning behind this tree that I love, I’m also drawn to its gnarled twisted trunk – a nod to its ancient roots – and the way it leads to a dense canopy of dark green leaves. A Faux Olive Tree would be the ideal choice for any room, but I think it works especially well in minimalist spaces thanks to its unique shape and intense colour.   Faux Black Olive Tree   In the wild, black olive trees tend to be found in coastal regions and, despite having the nickname ‘Shady Lady’, they need bright sunlight to thrive. That’s one reason why I recommend choosing a Faux Black Olive Tree instead; opting for a faux variety means you can enjoy its striking architectural silhouette whether you want to display it in a window or a shadier spot. Our Faux Black Olive tree has a slender trunk that leads to a clutch of vibrant green leaves, while lifelike black olives hang from the branches for enhanced realism.   Faux Topiary Buxus Ball   If you’re looking for a statement tree to greet guests in your hallway or by your front door (UV protection is included as standard), our Faux Topiary Buxus Ball is designed to make an impression. This evergreen option features densely packed small leaves in a stunning shade of vivid green, which are perfectly formed into spheres that look manicured but not artificial. One of my favourite things about our Faux Topiary is that it’ll retain its shape no matter what, no trimming required. To take your Faux Topiary Buxus Balls to the next level, I recommend investing a matching pair (one for each side of a doorway) and displaying them in our new Tuddenham Planter.   Faux Lemon Tree You can enjoy a touch of Mediterranean sunshine even in the depths of winter thanks to our Faux Lemon Tree. This vibrant tree features an elongated trunk topped with a spray of glossy green leaves and adorned with suspended lemons. It’s effortlessly tropical, bringing a pop of citrus yellow to neutral spaces, and will look bright and beautiful on the greyest days. I love displaying my Faux Lemon Tree in our kitchen or taking it outside and onto the patio on a sunny day to be instantly transported to Tuscany – its built-in UV protection means its colour won’t fade, even in a heatwave!

Instantly enhance your space and create a stunning focal point with a faux tree. From tropical lemon trees to classic Buxus balls, our new faux tree collection has a variety to suit any style   A style for every space  No matter whether you’re looking to enhance your living room, add a touch of calming greenery to your bedroom, or create a focal point to welcome guests in your hallway, our collection of faux trees offers something for every type of room and interior décor. Loved by interior designers who favour a timeless aesthetic, our Black Olive tree is an effortlessly sophisticated choice for a minimalist space, while our vibrant Lemon tree is the ideal choice if you want to enjoy the sun-soaked charm of the Mediterranean year-round. If you’re looking for faux trees that will attract compliments, our Faux Buxus balls are true statement pieces, especially when displayed in our Tuddenham Planter. Our Faux Olive trees offer a striking alternative, standing out from the crowd thanks to their unique curved trunk and lifelike olives. This impactful option also has added UV protection to ensure it remains looking its best for months and years to come. Get a boost with greenery Green is one of the most powerful colours to use in your home. Not only is it rooted in nature, providing a link to the outdoors but it’s also been scientifically proven to boost moods and inspire creativity. And that’s not all; green can also have a calming effect, making it an ideal choice for rooms designed for relaxation like your bedroom. Greenery has the same effect whether it’s real or faux, bringing both warmth and a sense of serenity to your space. I find that evergreen faux trees are particularly stunning when contrasted with a stripped-back, minimalist interior. The tree’s leaves can soften sharp lines and contribute to creating a more inviting atmosphere.   Minimal maintenance, maximum impact  One of my favourite things about faux trees is that they can look great in any room without adding another chore to your weekly to-do list. Unlike their real counterparts, faux trees don’t need regular watering or to be set in a spot that gets enough sunlight, and there’s no risk of leaves dropping on the floor when the seasons change. Of course, that doesn’t mean you should ignore your faux trees completely. To help them maintain their good looks, I recommend keeping them out of direct sunlight to reduce the risk of colour fading and giving the leaves a light dusting every so often. But that’s really all they need; if you have a packed schedule or want to add greenery to a room without a window, a faux tree is a perfect low-maintenance option.   A versatile alternative to faux florals While even the most casual reader of this blog will know that faux florals are my first love, faux trees have also captured my heart thanks to their versatility. Just like faux stems, you can adjust the branches and leaves of each tree until you find the shape that best suits your space. If you decide you want to shake up your interiors, you can simply reposition your faux trees, move them into different rooms, or swap them into a different one of our new Ultra-Lite planters.   An eye-catching design element  If you haven’t tried adding a faux tree to your décor before, I promise that you won’t regret it! Faux trees not only provide a natural focal point – without becoming overpowering – but thanks to their height, they also draw the eye upwards, making your ceilings look higher and the room feel more spacious. A faux tree is more than a simple decoration, it’s a statement piece that can really transform your room.

Looking to get creative with faux flowers in your kitchen? Here are my top tips for displaying arrangements in the heart of your home Faux flowers are an ideal choice for the kitchen, especially as real plants can struggle with the uneven temperatures that come with a hot oven. But how can you bring faux florals and foliage into this busy, functional space? Here are a few of my favourite ways to use flowers in the kitchen: Adorn your kitchen island An island can be one of the most versatile spaces in the kitchen, but it’s also an area that naturally lends itself to a faux floral arrangement. I love to display a statement centrepiece on our island; it brings me joy each time I enter the room. The exact arrangement of faux flowers that I choose tends to shift with the seasons, but it’s always a striking piece that offers height, depth, and texture. If your kitchen is a clean monochrome colour – no matter whether it’s cream, navy, olive, or any other hue – consider adding a pop of pink. This is especially effective in spring and summer when peonies are naturally in season (one of my favourite pink blooms). Our Faux Powder Pinks Arrangement is an ideal choice for a kitchen island; it’s a beautiful balance of sophistication and warmth with a mix of Faux Blush Magnolia,Faux Powder Pink Lilac and Faux Powder Pink Ranunculus Spruce up high spaces. If you don’t have a lot of spare surface space in your kitchen, you could look at placing faux flowers on your kitchen’s high points. Look at the top of your kitchen cupboards or on the shelving above your oven. One of my favourite things to do with these spots is to create arrangements with hanging blooms that trail down with rustic charm. With faux flowers, you can simply bend the stems and arrange them in your chosen vessel, so they fall in exactly the right way – and, unlike with real flowers, there’s no need to grab a stepladder to water them! Our Faux White Scabious Spray is ideally suited to this type of display with its long, elegant stem and lifelike white flowers. Alternatively, get creative with overhanging foliage: our Faux Green Eucalyptus and Faux Olive Stem are both great options. Play with kitchen-inspired vessels There’s something that just feels right about displaying faux flowers in vessels that look naturally at home in the kitchen. While ceramic and terracotta vases can still suit this space, consider experimenting with jars, bowls, and jugs. Our Hoxne bowl, for example, is intended as a flower vessel, not a cooking implement, but it right in the kitchen setting thanks to its textured finish and handmade imperfections. For a more vintage-inspired look, you could choose an apothecary or mason vase. These are simple yet elegant vessels that can be used for both faux and fresh floral arrangements. Jugs are similar, typically featuring a wide base and narrow neck that means they’re perfect for relatively minimalist arrangements of just three or four faux stems. Hang a wreath Wreaths are one of my go-to home décor choices in any room, including the kitchen. It’s a common misconception that wreaths can only be displayed on doors; instead, they can be placed on the wall above your oven, sink, or counters. For the kitchen, I tend to gravitate towards foliage-based faux wreaths, which can be easily updated with seasonal blooms to reflect the time of year. If you’re looking for something a little more structured but still with a rustic edge, you could build a wreath with faux branches. Style your sink Whether you’re washing the dishes or filling the kettle, the sink is probably one of your most visited spots in the kitchen. That’s why it’s also one of my favourite areas to place a faux arrangement; not only is there usually counter space spare to hold a vessel but it also instantly brings a smile to my face each time I enter the room. Even so, I tend to keep it simple when it comes to these floral arrangements; our Faux Eucalyptus Bush is an ideal option thanks to its short stem and cool grey tones while our Faux Sweet Pea bouquet offers delicate blooms and a lightness that perfectly complements a minimalist kitchen.

Our new Seagrass Trays embody laid-back luxury through their natural texture, timeless design, and remarkable versatility, making them a must-have for elevating your home décor. Hand-woven with care, these trays blend rustic charm with refined style, perfect for various settings-from the coffee table to alfresco dining and serene bathroom corners. Here are three inspired ways to style these trays, along with insights into why seagrass is an exceptional material choice for sustainable and stylish home accents. 1. The Coffee Table Catch-All: Practical Elegance Transform your coffee table into a curated vignette that balances functionality with aesthetic appeal. Use the seagrass tray as a base to organize a small stack of your favourite books, a softly scented candle, and a vase filled with fresh or faux florals. The natural, earthy tones of the seagrass add warmth and texture, creating a relaxed yet polished look that invites you to linger. Styling Tip: Vary the height and scale of items to create visual interest and harmony. Combine taller elements like a vase or slender candlesticks with mid-sized books and smaller accents such as decorative candles or personal keepsakes. This layering technique ensures the arrangement feels dynamic and well-proportioned. This approach not only keeps your coffee table tidy but also turns everyday objects into a stylish display that complements your home interiors seamlessly. 2. Alfresco Table Styling: Effortless Summer Charm Hosting outdoors? Our seagrass trays are ideal for garden gatherings, serving as both functional and decorative pieces. Use them to hold drinks, cutlery, napkins, or as a platform for flower arrangements and fruit bowls. Their natural fibres and neutral hues enhance the casual elegance of alfresco dining, blending beautifully with greenery and natural surroundings. Styling Tip: Add small vases of freshly picked garden flowers to introduce height and a pop of colour. This simple addition creates a centrepiece that feels organic and inviting, perfect for summer entertaining. The trays’ durability makes it practical for outdoor use, while their aesthetic adds a warm, earthy texture. 3. Bedroom or Bathroom Serenity: Spa-Like Calm Bring a touch of spa luxury into your personal spaces by placing a seagrass tray on a dresser, shelf, or bathroom counter. Style it with a rolled hand towel, your favorite hand cream or lotion, a delicate bud vase, and a candle. The natural material and neutral tones promote a calming atmosphere, turning everyday routines into moments of relaxation. Styling Tip: Stick to a soothing color palette-whites, soft greens, and gentle textures harmonize beautifully with the seagrass, enhancing the sense of tranquility. This styling not only organizes essentials but also elevates the space with understated elegance, making it feel fresh and inviting. Why Choose Seagrass? The Sustainable, Stylish Material Seagrass is more than just a pretty natural fibre-it’s a sustainable and practical choice for home décor: Eco-Friendly and Biodegradable: Seagrass grows in coastal waters and is harvested without depleting resources. It decomposes naturally, reducing landfill waste and environmental impact Renewable and Responsibly Sourced: Cultivated sustainably, especially in regions like Vietnam, seagrass supports local ecosystems and artisanal communities, promoting ethical craftsmanship Durable and Long-Lasting: Despite its lightweight feel, seagrass is strong and resilient, making it ideal for everyday use in trays, baskets, and furniture Natural Aesthetic and Versatility: Its earthy tones and woven texture complement styles from rustic to modern, adding warmth and depth without overpowering other decor elements Hypoallergenic and Chemical-Free: Seagrass is a safe, non-toxic material that helps maintain better indoor air quality and resists mold and mildew, suitable for humid environments Supports Traditional Craftsmanship: Many seagrass products are handmade by skilled artisans, preserving cultural weaving techniques and providing fair wages Low Maintenance: Easy to clean with just a damp cloth or dusting, seagrass décor is practical for busy homes Beyond Trays: Styling Inspiration and Versatility Seagrass trays can be styled in countless ways beyond the three ideas above. For example: Use them as a base for tiered displays with fresh herbs or seasonal decor like pumpkins and flowers. Combine with rustic accents such as wooden cutting boards, vintage books, or ceramic dishes to create layered, textured arrangements. Hang a seagrass tray on the wall as a decorative element, adding wreaths or seasonal ornaments for a unique focal point. These styling ideas highlight the tray’s adaptability, making it a functional and beautiful addition to any room or occasion In summary, our new Seagrass Trays are a perfect blend of natural beauty, sustainability, and versatile design. Whether organizing your coffee table, enhancing outdoor dining, or creating a serene bathroom retreat, these trays bring warmth and effortless style to your home. Their eco-friendly origins and handcrafted quality make them a meaningful choice for conscious living, while their timeless aesthetic ensures they remain a beloved decor staple through every season.  

Ever wondered how interior designers make a coffee table look effortlessly stylish yet totally liveable? The secret lies in a few simple principles — and one of the easiest ways to pull it together is with a beautifully styled tray. Here’s how to master the look and style your tray like a pro: 1. Start with a Tray to Anchor the Space A tray isn’t just practical — it gives your arrangement structure and purpose. Whether you choose woven seagrass for warmth, ceramic for a sleek feel, or wood for rustic charm, it creates a defined zone that instantly elevates the table. Tip: A round tray softens sharp lines, while a rectangular one echoes more structured, contemporary spaces. 2. Layer in Different Textures Mixing textures adds depth and visual interest — the secret ingredient to a designer feel. Combine smooth ceramics, rustic wood elements, or metallic candle holders for balance and contrast. Tip: Think contrast — a mixture of 3 or 4 different textures work well 3. Add a Touch of Nature Faux flowers or stems are the ultimate styling hack: zero maintenance, year-round beauty, and endlessly reusable. A small arrangement or bud vase adds softness, movement and a sense of calm to the space. Tip: Keep it loose and natural — asymmetry feels more relaxed and effortless. 4. Play with Height and Scale Interior designers always consider height variation. Use a combination of taller items (like a vase or candlesticks), mid-height objects (like a stack of books), and smaller accents (like a decorative bowl or matchbox) to create flow. Tip: Play around with different objects until it feels effortless and natural. 5. Make It Personal The most stylish spaces are the most personal. Include your current read, a stylish way to display your glasses, or a scented candle you love. These little touches tell your story — and make it feel lived-in, not staged. Style Made Simple A well-styled coffee table is about balance: structured but not stiff, stylish but still you. With the right tray and a few key principles — texture, nature, and thoughtful layers — it’s easy to create that designer look every day.

Whether you’re elevating a shelf, dressing a bedside table, or creating a coffee table moment, the right vase makes all the difference. This curated collection of seven new vases and pots blends craftsmanship, character, and total styling versatility. Here’s how to use each piece in your home — plus what to pair it with for the most beautiful floral displays.   1. The Darsham Large Vase A sculptural showstopper with twisted handles. Handmade and full of character, this vase offers height, texture and earthy elegance. No two are exactly the same, making it a standout styling piece in any home. Best for: Large arrangements such as Artichoke Deluxe or Spring Willow. Kitchen islands, console tables, or dramatic windowsill displays Pairing with rustic wood and natural textures 2. The Darsham Small Vase Compact elegance with all the character of the large. A slightly scaled-down version of its larger counterpart, this vase is just as impactful in smaller spaces. The twisted handles give it a sculptural edge even when left empty. Best for: Smaller arrangements such as our Faux powder pinks Coffee tables or layered shelving Bringing character to compact areas 3. The Aspall Vase Elegant and timeless with a blue floral design. With its delicate pattern and tapered shape, the Aspall Vase is ideal for adding a subtle pop of colour to shelves, windowsills, or bedside tables. It suits a wide range of faux stems — from soft and elegant white sweet peas to fuller floral and foliage mixes. Best for: Windowsills, bedside tables and kitchen shelves Faux white sweet peas, white roses, or white willow. Adding charm to quiet corners   4. The Bentley Pot Rustic charm in a soft off-white glaze. Perfectly proportioned for smaller spaces, the Bentley Pot is a go-to for simple, effortless styling. It works beautifully on coffee tables, bookshelves or bedside nooks. Best for: Faux eucalyptus blush, short magnolia stems, or ranunculus Grouping with stacked books or candles for added texture Rustic, layered looks   5. The Minsmere Vase Warm ochre tones and historic charm With twin handles and artisan detailing, the Minsmere Vase makes a quiet statement wherever it’s placed. The ochre glaze pairs beautifully with dark greens and soft natural shades. Best for: Faux olive stems (styled here with one) Hallway tables, fireplaces, or as part of a shelf display Layering with antique or neutral pieces 6. The Dunwich Pot Richly glazed in deep brown with vintage details. A glossy dark brown glaze, braided detailing, and small side handles make this pot beautifully unique. It’s the perfect contrast piece for neutral rooms or lighter florals. Best for: Faux white willow stems, eucalyptus bush, or short magnolia Bedside tables, kitchen corners, or layered shelving Creating depth and contrast in your floral styling   Which Will You Style First? Each of these pieces brings something different to the table — whether it’s colour, texture, or height. All are designed to work seamlessly with your faux stems and across every room of the home. Let your creativity lead, and see how just one vase can completely transform a space.

If you’re looking for a vessel that can complement every interior style while adding character and charm, I always recommend a rustic vase. Here are my top tips for how to style faux arrangements in rustic vases   Why choose a rustic vase?  While I love experimenting with different types of vessel, there’s something extra-special about rustic vases. With their unique finishes, texture, and natural charm, rustic designs instantly add warmth, depth, and character to any interior. In fact, most rustic pieces have organic shapes that mean they suit almost any style, from modern minimalism to vintage farmhouse. There are a wide range of rustic vases available, featuring both rough-hewn and smoother surfaces with matte and glazed finishes, but they all pair perfectly with faux flowers. Introducing our rustic vases  At The Suffolk Nest, we’ve been building out our collection of rustic vases for a while. I’m admittedly biased, but I love the selection we now stock – there’s really something for everyone:   Norton Vase   This beautifully imperfect handmade vase has a versatile wide-based shape, cool off-white colour, and grooves at the base for added intrigue.  Dunwich Pot      With its distinctive dark brown glaze and top handles, this vintage-inspired pot is a true statement piece. Flatford Vase A handmade vase with sturdy handles at the neck, the Flatford has a unique finish with wide grooves and a terracotta graphite colour. ·       Dennington Pot I love the texture of the Dennington, a wide set vessel with wide grooves and a stunning soft brown hue.   Bardwell Vase   This handmade vase is effortlessly elegant thanks to its tapered neck and off-white terracotta finish. Constable Pot The Constable is a charming addition to our collection, pairing its handmade look with intricate detailing around the neck.   Top tips for styling faux arrangements in rustic vases    Consider size and shape  Ideally, the size and shape of your chosen vessel should complement both your floral selection and the place where you plan to display it. A good rule of thumb is to choose taller pieces for narrow surfaces and wider designs for table centrepieces. I love styling tall stems and branches in vases with a tapered neck to lean into the drama while rounder shapes lend themselves to more unstructured arrangements with stems intentionally falling over the edges.   Mix materials One of my favourite things about styling faux arrangements in rustic vases is the contrast in textures. Personally, I think high quality faux flowers are the best fit for more rustic vessels as they are typically more realistic and suit organic-shaped vases. To play into the contrast, I like to create displays with beautifully soft faux florals. The delicate stems and large leaves of our Faux Eucalyptus are often a component of my arrangements, alongside the beautiful white buds of our Faux White Willow and the elegant bloom of our Faux Magnolia.   Choose complementary colours The neutral, earthy, tones of rustic vases are some of the most appealing aspects of this type of vessel. You could choose bright faux florals to intentionally clash with these calmer colours, but I find myself drawn to more similar shades. No matter whether you choose a rustic vase that’s off-white, brown, or graphite, you can’t go wrong with faux arrangements in muted tones like cream, blush pink, or deep green. Think the rich warm-toned white of our Faux White Ranunculus Spray, the purple maroon of our Faux Dried Hydrangea Mulberry or Faux Maroon Echinops, or the green of our Faux Pittosporum Stem.   Create layered looks  Rustic vases always inspire me to create looks that replicate nature’s beauty. For me, this means building layered looks that reflect the diverse mix of flowers and foliage you’d find while out walking in the countryside. That’s why my rustic vase arrangements often start with a piece of faux foliage that adds density, colour, and height. Our Faux Green Moss Branches, Faux Wild Grass, and Faux Fern Stems are all great choices for the base. Then I layer on lighter florals, placing the largest heads at the bottom of the display and smaller buds on the top. Our Faux White Sweet Pea, Faux Blush Magnolia Branch, and Faux Blossoms – Cherry or Plum – are just a few of my go-to options.

If you’re thinking of making the switch to faux stems for the first time or comparing the different options available, here are a few of my favourite things about investing in high quality faux flowers   Long-term value  While faux flowers can be more expensive to buy than fresh, it’s important to remember that they’re a long-term investment. This is even more true when it comes to high quality faux flowers; unlike a fresh bouquet that might need replacing every week or month, your faux arrangement can be enjoyed forever. Take time to maintain your faux stems and pack them away carefully when they’re not on display, and there’s no reason why you can’t continue to use them in your arrangements year after year.   Exceptionally realistic   One of the things that never ceases to amaze me when touring the world with Chris to source high quality faux florals is how realistic they are. The best faux stems consider every detail, from the texture of the leaves and the way the colour blends out from pistil to petal to the distribution of buds and full bloom flowers. Modern faux varieties are worlds away from the artificial flowers you might have encountered in the past; in fact, I think it’s now virtually impossible to tell the difference between faux and fresh florals at first glance. Year-round beauty   Although I tend to take inspiration from nature and love creating arrangements that reflect the changing seasons, there’s nothing stopping you displaying the same faux flowers year-round if you like. Quality stems can – with a little TLC – stay out in your home from January to December. That means you can enjoy the beauty of peonies for far longer than just a few weeks, show off your sweet peas even when it’s snowing, and pair your favourite flowers with winter branches at the height of summer. Low maintenance  It’s a common misconception that high quality faux flowers don’t need any maintenance – you’ll definitely get the best results if you take good of them. However, it’s true that they’re much less labour intensive than fresh arrangements. To keep your faux stems looking their best, try not to display them in direct sunlight (and rotate them so that any fading happens evenly), lightly dust them every few weeks, and, if you’re putting them away for a while, store them securely in the box they arrived in.   Durable A big difference you might find between high quality faux florals and lower quality alternatives is their durability. This is especially important if you plan to reuse your flowers again and again in different arrangements. Look out for well-constructed stems that stand tall but can bend without breaking, petal and buds that are securely attached to the stem, and real-touch materials that tend to resist damage better than cheaper alternatives.   Allergy free  If you have any hay fever sufferers in your household, you’ll probably already know that one of the biggest benefits of faux flowers is that they’re generally hypoallergenic. This also means you won’t run the risk of having pollen stains on your furniture. With a faux flower arrangement, you won’t have to worry about causing any irritation to your guests and your display will be pet friendly too! Versatile  For me, faux flowers and creativity go hand-in-hand. I love reusing my favourite stems in new arrangements, bending and re-bending them to stand at different heights and angles, and challenging convention by styling flowers and branches in unusual combinations. This also means my faux flowers never go to waste; even if I bought them with a specific arrangement in mind, I can either use them again in a different display or store them safely until I’m ready to use them again.  

To celebrate the arrival of our new planters - the Parham and the Hoxne - I wanted to share one of my favourite spring planter arrangements. Here’s my step-by-step guide Supplies: · Ideally a waterproof and opaque vessel · Living carpet moss · Spring bulbs of your choice · Contorted hazel branches   Step 1 – Choose your vessel  It all starts with your planter. The most important attribute it needs to have is to be waterproof, which means either our new Parham Planter or our Hoxne Bowl would both be fantastic options. The Parham Planter has a beautifully textured, matte white finish, which gives it a timeless look, while its 31.5cm diameter means it’s very versatile. The Hoxne Bowl has more depth and a 33.5cm diameter. Each one is handmade and has an elegant, organic shape. The choice is yours! Step 2 – Start with gravel  Once you’ve selected your planter (I’m using the Parham in this example), you’ll need to prep it by adding a thin layer of gravel across the bottom for drainage. Step 3 – Add your bulbs  Now, it’s time to add your spring bulbs. For me, the more, the merrier – the more bulbs you can fit into the space, the more impactful it will be. You can use any spring bulb that you find at your local garden centre, but I have a soft spot for Narcissi Bridal Crowns. Aim to position the bulbs tightly together and don’t be afraid to break them up if you’re struggling to get as many bulbs in place as you’d like. There’s no need to worry about the roots at this point as your bulbs will still flower without them. After you’ve filled the planter as much as you can, plug any gaps with peat-free compost. Step 4 – Cover with carpet moss Next, cover the compost with fresh living carpet moss. When choosing pieces, try to select the greenest moss as it’s more spring-like and visually pleasing. Don’t be too concerned about it looking perfect, I personally like the moss to spill over the edge to give the arrangement a more natural look. Step 5 – Bring the drama with branches The final step in the process is also my favourite – adding contorted hazel branches. While not strictly essential, I think these branches take your arrangement to the next level, adding architectural edge. Cut your branches to size – I’d recommend somewhere between 60 and 80cm – and push them into the moss at different angles. Be sure to take a step back every few minutes and view your planter at different angles so you can check you’re 100% happy with the positioning. Step 6 – Enjoy To keep your planter looking its best, remember that it’s always better to under water rather than over water. Keep an eye on the compost and mist or lightly water every few days when it looks dry. Then, all that’s left to do is sit back and enjoy all-season-long!

Looking to update your home décor for the new season? Embrace spring styling with our top tips on how to refresh your space by making just a few simple changes   Refresh your vase collection  Spring is the perfect time to update your vase collection, especially if you’re planning to get creative with seasonal blooms. This small change can instantly transform the look and feel of a room, even when you’re only refreshing the vessels displayed in places like your bedside table, bookshelf, or coffee table. For a nod to nature, consider our Alton and Nayland Vases. These clay vases have a naturalistic feel thanks to their distinctive textured finish and the curved, tapered neck of the Nayland Vase makes it an ideal choice for delicate spring stems like our Faux Sweet Peas. If you’re thinking of embracing spring styling by creating a spring bulb arrangement, I recommend investing in either our Hoxne Bowl or Parham Planter. The Hoxne is a handmade ceramic with an organic shape and textured finish, while its off-white and taupe tones are the perfect complement to the verdant green of your growing bulbs. Our Parham Planter also has a textured finish and could be used for your bulbs or to hold a selection of fragrant kitchen herbs.  Add texture to tablescapes A quick and easy way to update your space for spring is to incorporate natural textures. Start by displaying a tray on your coffee table or ottoman; this brings warmth to your room while also providing a practical receptacle to display your favourite book, magazine, or scented candle and protect the surface from your morning coffee cup. Our new round and rectangular seagrass trays are standouts. Made by artisans, each is based on a sturdy wire frame and features braided seagrass, which is as beautiful as it is durable. Our rattan trays are equally hardwearing, handmade in Vietnam using traditional techniques and boasting a timeless design that ensures they will enhance your interiors for seasons to come. Embrace Easter motifs  One of my favourite Easter symbols – and a perfect choice for spring styling – is the bunny rabbit. For me, these animals encapsulat the sense of renewal that defines the season – and they’re absolutely adorable! If you’re looking to embrace spring in your home décor and inject playfulness into your space, try displaying a bunny alongside your floral arrangements, on your mantelpiece, or on a coffee table tray. Our collection has an option to suit every taste; our ceramic white rabbits offer a sophisticated take on this trend and are available posed sitting, holding an egg, or hanging from a white ribbon. Our crochet selection is a more rustic alternative; these handmade bunnies are available in white and grey and can be displayed on their own or hung from your spring stems. Display seasonal faux florals  Updating my arrangements with seasonal stems is one of my favourite things about entering a new phase of the year and spring is no exception. There are so many fantastic blooms to choose from, but I love leaning on white varieties as they offer a burst of freshness and reflect the clean slate that comes with entering a new season. Whether you’re looking to style a selection of single stems or mix and match with foliage to create a more dramatic arrangement, I’d suggest experimenting with our Faux White Hydrangea, Faux White Sweet Peas, and Faux White Ranunculus. The hydrangea has a unique charm thanks to its abundant mophead petals and contrasts beautifully with the delicacy of our sweet peas. Our ranunculus is also exceptionally realistic, featuring a head of paper-like petals in full bloom alongside one still in bud to reflect the stems you’d see in nature. Bring in blossom  Is there any flower that feels more springlike than blossom? One simple way to add a touch of seasonal style to your home is to use blossom branches. You could display them in a vase, arrange them artfully on your dining table, or interweave them with your home accessories on a shelf or mantelpiece. There are several different varieties to choose from; our Faux Cherry Blossom is a classic and can make an impact with just a few stems. I love the small and delicate white flowers that define this traditional blossom. Our Faux Sakura Blossom is a little more unusual, playing with contrasts by pairing a scattering of white flowers on splayed branches with dramatically dark stems. If you’re looking for a blossom with a sprinkling of greenery, our Faux Plum Blossom offers both vibrant green leaves and white flowers, held on long stems that add structure and movement.

This Mother’s Day, treat the most important woman in your life to a floral arrangement she’ll love. From elegant blooms to beautifully simple bouquets, there’s an extra-special style to suit every taste Faux White Hydrangeas  Hydrangeas are one of my favourite blooms to give as a gift and they’re an ideal choice for Mother’s Day. You really can’t go wrong with our Faux White Hydrangea Arrangement, especially if you’re looking for a timeless and elegant bouquet. Hydrangeas are the star of the show, an effortlessly luxurious flower with abundant petals. They can have different meanings depending on their colour and, in white, are associated with purity, grace, and good fortune. This refined yet bold arrangement balances the volume of the hydrangeas with delicate viburnum branches, waxflower, and eucalyptus. A captivating mix that will show her just how much she means to you. Faux Sweet Peas If your Mum prefers a pared back aesthetic with a rustic twist, she’ll love our Faux Sweet Pea Bouquet. Simple but effective, this bouquet is ideal for fans of this delicate spring flower  and those who favour minimalist displays. You’ll find six white sweet pea stems in this bunch, which can be styled on their own or integrated with faux florals your Mum already has in her collection. For me, this is one of those flowers that captures the spirit of spring, but it’s also known to symbolise loyalty and friendship, making it a great choice for a Mum who’s also your best friend. Faux Blush Magnolia and Blossom  When you’re looking for a Mother’s Day gift that will make her feel extra-special, I highly recommend our majestic Faux Blush Magnolia and Blossom Arrangement. Magnolia is one of those flowers that always commands attention, especially when they combine white petals with a blush pink pistil. In the wild, it’s also known for its ability to endure tough conditions so it’s only natural that magnolia has come to represent everlasting bonds like the one between mother and child. This spectacular arrangement also features Blush Eucalyptus and Cherry Blossom, which offer texture, colour, and depth. Faux Roses and Poppies  Mums with a classic sense of style are sure to appreciate the beauty of this bouquet. Our Faux Rose and Poppy Bouquet has wide ranging appeal and is packed with meaning; the rose is an enduring symbol of love while poppies symbolise the power of connection. This deceptively simple bouquet combines white roses and powder poppies with delicate waxflowers giving it an irresistible charm. You could gift this bouquet in a vessel so it’s ready to display immediately; I’d suggest a white ceramic vase like our grooved Flowton Vase or gently rippled Lavenham Vase. Faux Blossom If you’re looking for the perfect Mother’s Day blooms to make a first-time or new mum feel special, our Faux Blossom Arrangement offers a more unusual, but very apt, choice. Blossom is another flower that goes hand in hand with spring and the start of a new season of life, making them a thoughtful flower to gift someone who is entering motherhood for the first time. This stunning arrangement includes both Cherry and Sakura blossoms, which both combine their delicate blush petals with striking dark branches.

Combining some of my favourite spring plants, fresh foliage, and statement stems, this living wreath is the perfect way to welcome the warmer weather. Here’s my six-step guide to creating your own spring wreath  For our family, springtime is always an important time for socialising. Whether it’s gathering the family for Easter celebrations or making the most of sunny Sundays with friends, our home takes on a new lease of life at this time of year. I love welcoming our guests by creating a living wreath to display on our front door. This striking piece uses spring plants and foliage from the garden so will start to grow and change as the season rolls on - and putting it together is easier than you might think. Read on for my step-by-step guide to creating your own spring wreath: The ingredients you’ll need… ·         12-inch wire wreath frame ·         Wreath wire ·         Carpet moss ·         1 x Primrose plant ·         2 x Viola plants ·         Selection of bulbs – I chose white and blue Muscari ·         Foliage – I’ve used Rosemary and Olive from our garden Step 1 – Create a firm foundation  Start by taking your wreath wire and attaching it to the frame. I recommend weaving it in a zig zag pattern as this helps to create a solid foundation for the carpet moss to sit on. Step 2 – Add a layer of moss Take your carpet moss and spread it around the frame, securing in place with more wreath wire. Step 3 – Place your plants Next, take your Viola and Primrose plants and wrap their compost and roots in a layer of carpet moss, held in place with wrapped wire. Position each place on a wreath in a natural formation. I find that the visual impact is most impressive when you have an odd number of plants; I used three in a rough triangle shape with the Primrose acting as the focal plant on the bottom left side of the wreath.   Step 4 – Fill will foliage Once your plants are in position, it’s time to turn to your foliage. Cut into lengths that feel right for the frame and insert them directly into the moss to help fill out the rest of the wreath. Don’t worry if this step takes a little while. Take a step back every few minutes or ask someone to hold it up for you so that you can assess how the shape is coming together and whether you’ve missed any gaps.  Step 5 – Get creative with bulbs  As soon as you’re happy with the placement of your foliage, start adding your bulbs. If they’re in clusters, break them apart from you’re only dealing with one bulb at a time. Dust off any excess compost and attach them to the wreath using wire. I like to add a group of three bulbs at the top of the wreath and another two at the side.   Step 6 – Go wild  Finally, to add a little extra drama, add some Contorted Hazel stems. In my opinion, the wilder it looks, the better – just make sure you can still close your front door!

Say hello to spring with this simple but effective viola wreath. Follow our step-to-step guide to create a standout piece that is sure to attract compliments  This spring, I’ve fallen in love with violas again. You’ll find them available in your local garden centre at this time of year, blooming brightly in vivid colours. Many also have an ombre effect to their petals that always draws the eye. Traditionally, pansies are a symbol of love, admiration, and thoughtfulness. It’s for all these reasons and more that I’m excited to share this guide to creating your own pansy wreath. One of the best things about this wreath is its versatility. You can hang it on your door or use it as a table centrepiece. I personally like to display it on a cake stand, fill the centre with more carpet moss, and add a few ceramic sitting bunnies to tie in with this season’s sense of joy and renewal. The ingredients you’ll need:           Approx. 12 to 15 small viola plants          One 12-inch wreath ring          Carpet Moss Step 1 – Prepare your violas Before you start, I recommend watering your violas so that they’re damp. Next, take a piece of carpet moss. Ideally, your piece will be big enough to cover the compost and roots of one viola plant. Carefully remove one plant from your selection and wrap the moss around the compost with the green side facing outwards. Step 2 – Secure in place Once the moss is in place, secure it by wrapping wire around it a few times until you’re satisfied it won’t move. Step 3 – Repeat Follow this process until you’ve wrapped all your 12 to 15 viola plants in a layer of carpet moss. Step 4 – Time for framing  Now, it’s time to turn to your frame. Start by attaching your wire to the 12-inch wreath frame. Step 5 – Position carefully  Choose one of the mossed plants and place it on top of the wreath. Keep it in place using wire but try to make sure you don’t damage the plant. I suggest going gently over and under with the wire until you’re completely happy. Step 6 – Plot your violas Keep the wire in place and add your next viola plant. Aim to keep it as close to the first plant as possible with no visible gap in between. Step 7 – Complete the wreath  Continue adding each of the mossed viola plants until the entire wreath is full. Once all the pansies are place, cut the wire and secure it by threading through a few times and then tucking the excess into the moss. To help your viola wreath last as long as possible, keep it damp by spritzing it with water either every few days or whenever it looks dry.                  

If you’re looking to create a spring arrangement that is soft and elegant, you can’t go wrong with our favourite pastel faux florals.    Why choose pastel colours?  As soon as the days start getting longer and we start to see signs of spring incoming, I find myself drawn to blooms in beautiful pastel shades. Pastels, with their soft, muted colour palette, have been around since the 18th century but they remain sought-after today; in fact, there were 25 million posts with #pastel in the caption posted on Instagram last year. It’s easy to see why pastel colours are so popular; traditionally they symbolise optimism, joy, and serenity but they’re also effortlessly romantic. I love the innate elegance of shades like blush pink, lavender, and soft green and think they’re the ideal choice for setting a relaxed and contemplative mood at home.   One of the things I like best about pastel faux floral arrangements is that they’re incredibly versatile. You can display these soft and elegant stems at almost any occasion, from weddings and baby showers to birthdays and anniversaries. They also signify the start of spring and the colours we see in fresh flowers as they begin emerging from their winter beds. When it comes to creating an arrangement, pastels naturally complement each other thanks to their shared white undertones, so they look fantastic displayed today. If you make a start but become concerned your display might be at risk of becoming overly saccharine, I recommend breaking up your pastel stems with white flowers like our Faux White Sweet Pea or Faux White Virburnum.   Our favourite pastel flowers  While there are several pastel faux florals that I love, there are three that I think offer the perfect balance of colour, shape, and spectacle:   Faux Pink Peony Stem  I love fresh peonies, but their short season always leaves me wanting more. That’s one of the many reasons why I feel so inspired by our Faux Pink Peony Stem. Not only is this floral exceptionally realistic, but the attention to detail that goes into each individual petal is mesmerising. Each is unique as they’re curved and painted by hand, which is an even more impressive feat when you consider the abundance of petals that characterise a peony in full bloom. You could style these beautiful blooms en masse or combine them with similar blush tones.   Faux Blush Eucalyptus If you’re a fan of greenery, our Faux Blush Eucalyptus offers a wonderful combination of soft green leaves and blush pastel pink tips. It’s an ideal choice for spring and matches sense of renewal that comes with a new season as eucalyptus traditionally symbolises luck, purification, and cleansing. This stem’s blend of green and pink is visually intriguing but also warm, offering a powerful contrast to an all-white ceramic vessel. I recommend styling it with our Faux Blush Magnolia, just make sure you use multiple branches at different heights to make it as interesting and realistic as possible.   Faux Blush Magnolia Branch  With its soft pink and white petals, our handmade Faux Blush Magnolia Branch is an ideal choice for those experimenting with pastel shades for the first time. If you tend to prefer white and cream florals, this elegant stem might well change your mind. I particularly love the realism of this branch; each bud is a different size – with some more open than others – to perfectly replicate nature’s beauty. To create a simple yet stunning arrangement, pair your magnolia with our faux blossom stems for a display that captures the essence of spring.

This Valentine’s Day, show them how much they really mean to you with a romantic peony arrangement. Read on to discover why I think peonies are perfect for this time of year.    Why choose peonies for Valentine’s Day?  Peonies are one of the most popular florals for a reason – and they’re one of my personal favourites too! In nature, this slow-growing flower is known for the brief time it can be enjoyed in full bloom as well as its unique, slightly spiced scent, bowl-shaped petals, and gorgeous colour palette. For me, it’s ideally suited to Valentine’s Day arrangements. Whether you’re looking to surprise that special someone, treat your best friend, or gift your Mum, you can show everyone you love how much they mean to you with this stunning – and symbolic – bloom. No matter whether you choose white, cream, red, or blush pink peonies, this elegant flower conveys multiple meanings. Traditionally, it’s associated with love, luck, prosperity, and an endearing bashfulness.  For Valentine’s Day, I’d recommend the blush variety. This is an effortlessly romantic choice thanks to its feminine form and white petals with a splash of soft pink – it would make a perfect gift for 14th February.   A beautiful bouquet  While I love picking up fresh stems in late spring and early summer, peony season is always too short! It also means I’m not usually able to create Valentine’s Day peony arrangements – but that’s where our new faux stems have made all the difference. I’m so proud of our Faux Blush Peony Stem; it’s one of the most spectacular faux flowers in our collection. It arrives fully open with an abundance of petals, which contrast wonderfully with its luxurious green foliage. Naturalistic with pops of colour perfectly painted in place, each unique stem draws the eye with layered petals that are irresistibly inviting. If you fall in love with this stem too (I’m already head over heels), then a bouquet of 10 would make a great Valentine’s Day gift. Simply wrapped in brown paper and ready to display in your favourite vessel, it’s the ideal choice for the people who matter most. The perfect arrangements Although our peonies are striking when styled solo, I can’t resist using them to create Valentine’s Day-themed arrangement. To embrace this flower’s romantic ruffles, I enjoy combining our Faux Blush Peonies in a tonal trio alongside Faux Blush Magnolia and Faux Blush Eucalyptus. Faux Blush Eucalyptus provides the perfect base with its lush foliage and blend of silvery-green leaves with blush pink tips. Faux Blush Magnolia and Faux Blush Peonies are perfect focal flowers. I like to start by placing the larger stems at the base of the display before adding smaller pieces towards the top to create depth and visual intrigue. To add a final flourish, add structure and a nod to spring with a few carefully placed Faux Sakura Blossom Branches.   A vessel for your Valentine  When it comes to choosing the vessel for your Valentine’s Day peony arrangement, embrace the contrast of pink and white by selecting a ceramic vase. Depending on your personal preferences, your home décor aesthetic, and the size of your arrangement, you could opt for either our Norton or our Lavenham Vase. The Norton Vase has rustic appeal with an off-white glaze. Its charm is enhanced by its handmade craftsmanship, embracing imperfections in a way that make it ideal for a vintage-inspired space. With its full base and proportionate opening, it’s a great choice for displaying your peony bouquet. If you’re looking to lean into elegance, the Lavenham Vase has a timeless look thanks to its white glaze and subtle ribbed texture. With its impressive height, this vase is perfectly suited to larger arrangements, bringing balance and a sense of refinement to organic arrangements of peonies, magnolia, and eucalyptus.

Looking for a sneak peek into how interiors experts will be styling homes this year? Here’s our round-up of the top décor trends for 2025 and how you can try them yourself   Grounded colours  The Pantone colour of 2025 is Mocha Mousse, and that warm coffee brown sets the tone for this year’s trending palette. Grounding colours are having a moment. What do I mean by that? Grounded hues tend to be well-balanced and either neutral or with an earthy quality. Think creamy caramels, light terracotta, and blonde biscuit shades with accents in soft green or blue. Nods to nature  As well as taking notes from the natural world to inform your colour scheme, one of 2025’s biggest home décor trends is featuring nods to nature throughout your interiors. This could mean choosing natural materials for your furniture and accessories; pieces crafted from natural fires, wood, and stone are an ideal fit for this trend. You could also look at ways to bring the outdoors in. Displaying faux or fresh flowers and plants is one way to easily try this trend, while more extravagant examples might include living walls. Low lighting  The fear of the big lamp is real. This year, ambient lighting is the preferred choice, providing a warm and comforting glow rather than the harsh, bright light that can come from an overhead fixture. To try this trend yourself, add table lamps, shaded wall lights, and a selection of candles. It might take a little more time to turn everything on each evening, rather than just flicking a switch, but the feeling of calm that low lighting emits will be well worth it.   Glassware, clay, and ceramics Alongside wood and stoneware, glassware, clay, and ceramics are all being favoured in home décor this year, both in pieces for display and for everyday use. You can easily adopt this trend at home by experimenting with different vessels for your floral arrangements. Our Apothecary Vases have a timeless look and are ideal for creating smaller displays with fresh flowers while our tall ceramic Lavenham Vase is the perfect choice for larger statement pieces. Cosy corners  Cosiness and comfort are two of the key terms to know when it comes to home décor trends for 2025. I love this concept as it encourages us to focus on making a house our home and can make staying in feel just as special as getting out and about. You could create your own cosy corner by grouping together a soft seat, a standing lamp, and a shelf filled with your favourite books. I personally think this trend works especially well in your hallway. I love paying special attention to this space as it ensures your guests receive a warm welcome and amplifies that fuzzy feeling when you arrive home. You could add art to the walls, a side table with a floral arrangement, or even a faux tree, which can sit at the base of your stairs.  Warm minimalism  If there’s one phrase I’d use to define 2025 home décor trends it would be warm minimalism. This feels like a natural extension of the trends we’ve seen in recent years, moving away from stripped back spaces and cool tones like brilliant white, grey, and silver but not losing that clean and refreshing feel that we’ve come to love in our homes. You can add warm without losing your minimalist aesthetic by embracing natural materials, greenery, and ambient lighting, as well as injecting personality with your own artwork, souvenirs from trips abroad, and family photographs.   Vintage furnishings  Although we’re looking forward to the year ahead, home décor experts are taking inspiration from the past in 2025 with vintage furnishings. I recommend being selective with this trend, you can get creative with vintage-inspired pieces without ending up with a look that feels fussy or outdated. Instead, select just one or two items that complement your existing décor while referencing times gone by. You might want to display some antique art above your fireplace, add some rustic books and vintage chopping boards for interest, or add texture to your hallway with a patterned rug.

You can add instant impact to your interiors without overpowering the space with a minimalist arrangement. Here’s our quick guide to styling faux flowers for a minimalist look   The magic of minimalism  While I love experimenting with different ways of styling faux flowers, minimalist looks will always be some of my favourite pieces to create. Putting together arrangements that are simple yet striking is a wonderful creative challenge; it encourages you to embrace negative space, practise restraint, and remember that less often really is more. The most effective minimal displays offer visual harmony. If you’re considering designing your own arrangement in this aesthetic, ensure every stem you include is chosen with purpose and consider sticking to a single colour or flower. Monochrome displays can be impressive, even if you use just a few stems. Choose a complementary vessel First things first, let’s talk vessels. I find that minimalist faux floral arrangements pair perfectly with minimalist vessels. No matter whether you opt for a glass, ceramic, or stoneware vase, I recommend looking for designs with clean lines and in neutral colours to complement your display. Consider the easy sophistication of our white ceramic glaze Suffolk Vase or Lavenham Vase, the rustic terracotta of our graphite Flatford Vase, or the vintage sensibility of our glass Apothecary Vase. If you do choose a glass vessel, be sure to add water to enhance the realism of your creation.   Try a single statement stem   One of the simplest ways to create a striking minimalist look with faux flowers is to use a single stem. This is a fantastic way to celebrate the beauty of a particular bloom; look out for stems that have an unusual form or a distinctive petal shape. I love the signature form of the Ranunculus flower, which is beautifully full yet delicate thanks to the paper-thin quality of its petals. A pink Peony is a similarly stunning choice; our faux stems are hand-painted so each is entirely unique and stand out against a brilliant white vase. Focus on foliage  Your minimalist arrangement doesn’t have to include florals, you can create a spectacular display with faux foliage alone. Faux foliage offers an array of shades of green, ranging from the cool tones of Eucalyptus to verdant Faux Wild Oat Grass, and they can look incredible displayed in a tall vase. I really enjoy the way a clutch of foliage stems can spill over the edge of a vessel to produce a naturalistic, slightly wild look. To maintain a minimalist look, stick to just one type of foliage and just three or four stems.   Embrace sculptural stems  If you’re drawn to an architectural look, I recommend experimenting with a minimalist arrangement of sculptural branches. Depending on the season – and your own personal taste – you could opt for bare branches or variations adorned with spring blossom. There’s something effortlessly elegant about a Faux Winter Branch with its soft brown spikes, while Faux Cherry Blossom and Faux Sakura Bloom offer a striking contrast between their soft white flowers and dark stems. A benefit of using faux branches is that you can also bend each piece to form unusual angles.   Play with proportion  Minimalism doesn’t mean you can’t be creative. You can keep things simple by sticking to monochrome faux flowers or a single type of foliage, but don’t be afraid to bend the stems to change their heights and create different shapes. Break the rules by contrasting delicate blooms with a large vessel or displaying tall stems in a low vase – it’s all about following your instincts and finding out what appeals to you and suits your space.      

You can create a sense of warmth and cosiness whatever the weather with our varied selection of winter faux floral arrangements. Here are a few of my favourites Once all the Christmas decorations have been stored away and we start easing back into our normal routine, there’s something I find really appealing about the clean slate that’s left behind. I love that clutter-free, almost bare feeling in our home as we start the new year – and it always sparks my creativity! However, despite enjoying this home reset, the icy weather outside means I still end up craving cosiness. That’s why I like to introduce winter faux floral arrangements. These are a quick and easy way to instantly brighten a space and ensure it feels warm and inviting all season long.   Winter foliage At this time of year, I find myself drawn to winter foliage, especially when it’s displayed alongside seasonal branches. In my opinion, you can’t go wrong with the simple combination of faux foliage and our Winter Branch. This replicates the bare branches we see in nature while also adding depth and colour to your space. You could even display a few branches on their own in our Orwell vase to create a striking arrangement that offers height, texture, and structure. I also recommend pairing Faux Magnolia Branch with our Winter Branch. With its pastel tones and large goblet-shaped blooms, the Magnolia is the idea stem to help you transition from winter to spring, while it’s restrained elegance is both timeless and architecturally stunning.   A touch of blossom    If you’re already dreaming about the first days of Spring, consider brightening your home with a faux floral arrangement with blossom. I love the delicate appearance of our Sakura Blossom Spray; it’s perfect for winter as the florals aren’t too heavy but it still gives a hint of the abundance to come with its small white flowers. Style five stems in our Hemingstone or Lavenham vase for a simple yet beautiful display. For a more complex arrangement that feels springlike yet still embraces the cool tones of winter, I’d suggest our Faux Blush Spring Blossom Arrangement. This spectacular piece combines Sakura Blossom with Cherry Bloom and Blush Magnolia, each offering subtle blush shades that contrast wonderfully with their dark – almost black – stems. Distinctive flourishes When looking for an arrangement that sparks conversation and feels fresh yet also has a timeless aesthetic, our Faux Artichoke Arrangements are an ideal choice. Our incredibly realistic Artichoke Stems take centre stage, but they’re complemented by lush Eucalyptus, Ferns, Olive Branches, and delicate Faux Waxflower. The white accents provided by the Waxflower catch the eye while the different green tones found throughout the arrangement ensure you’ll always find something new to admire. Creative combinations   With so many striking branches and unusual faux florals available in the winter months, I love creating pieces that perfectly reflect the season and remind us of the beauty that remains even when the cold weather bites Our Faux Winter Rosehip Arrangement is a great transition piece, taking us out of the festive season and into the new year. Rosehips are the focal point, surrounded by Fir and Pine Branches as well as spectacular Winter Lace Flower, which has a distinctive colour and shape.

Discover the perfect Christmas centrepiece for all your festive celebrations with our step-by-step guide to creating our seasonal footed bowl arrangement Select your ingredients  At Christmas, the table centrepiece is one of the most important parts of our décor – we spend a lot of time as a family sat around the dining table, after all. This year, I’ve created a design in our versatile footed bowl that uses some of the evergreen foliage that feels so festive as well as more unusual stems that subtly reference the red tones and cool blues that dominate this time of year while still offering a fresh take on traditional arrangements. This Christmas centrepiece is beautifully rustic, joyful, and perfect for a celebration. For this arrangement, you’ll need: Pine branches Conifer branches Rosehip branches Viburnum stems Eryngium stems Hellebore stems Create a strong base  To keep your centrepiece secure throughout the festive season, you’ll need to prepare your footed bowl first. This vessel is ideal for group gatherings as it’s the perfect height, making an impression yet still allowing conversation to flow across the table. To hold the stems in place, I create a pillow of chicken wire. Aim to make it around three or four layers deep (to sit comfortably in the bowl) or use a flower flog or angel vine instead. I then make sure the wire won’t slip with some pot tape arranged in a cross shape. The colour of the tape you use is completely up to you as it’ll be entirely covered by your foliage and stems. Add some water and then you’re ready to start arranging.   Shape with foliage  Now it’s time to create your structure. I recommend using your foliage to do this as it provides a clear shape for your florals to slot into later. For this Christmas centrepiece, I start with pine and conifer branches. You can work face on to make things easier and start with the central branch, which will dictate the height of your centrepiece, before moving out to the edges. Don’t worry if some of your branches fall over the edge of the bowl but remember, you want your arrangement to be visually arresting but not so tall and wide that it makes seeing the other guests impossible!   Add seasonal stems  Next, time for the fun bit! Start adding colour with stems that nod to the festive season. I suggest placing the smallest flowers at the top of your arrangement and the larger blooms near the base. I think bold Eryngium stems look fantastic in the centre and towards the base of your display, providing a beautiful contrast to the soft blush tones of Hellebore stems, while our Rosehips bring the volume and dried Viburnum make the perfect accent piece.   Place as your Christmas centrepiece Now, you can place it on your dining table and enjoy throughout the Christmas period. Ideally, it should last at least five to seven days, especially if it’s not displayed next to a radiator. To keep it looking its best, I would change the water regularly, even every day if you can, and store it in a cooler spot in your home when you’re not sat at the table. For more inspiration and guidance, you can follow along with my live tutorial here.

Whether you’re cooking Christmas dinner or hosting friends and family for an evening of mulled wine and cheese, you can transform your kitchen for the festive season with our top tips   Do you decorate your kitchen at Christmas? I love that this has become more commonplace in recent years as our kitchen really is the heart of our home, especially at this time of year. It’s a space that deserves to feel just as special as the rest of the house. I try to decorate in a way that allows the kitchen to be both functional and festive, but you can choose to go all out or keep it subtle, depending on your personal style.   Hang a garland In my opinion, a garland is an essential piece of Christmas décor for any room. In the kitchen, it’s all about placement; you can hang one over your range or oven for example, but you need to make sure it doesn’t fall so low that it could cause a safety hazard! However, you could also hang one from your cupboard cornices, above your sink, or from your kitchen island. I think our Faux Norfolk Pine Garland looks fantastic set against natural wood, block colours, and ceramic tiles.   Create a counter scene Whether you have a piece of rarely used counter space or a kitchen island, these are ideal spots for a festive scene. I recommend starting with ceramics; I love the Scandinavian aesthetic of our White Ceramic Christmas Tree and White Ceramic House collection. Place two or three of differing sizes as the centrepiece alongside a couple of winter branches or berry stems. You could add a little seasonal shimmer by adding a string of white lights or a candle, either unscented or, if you do choose a scented version, don’t light them while you’re cooking or eating.   Add an unexpected wreath I love an unexpected wreath opportunity. While you’ll find wreaths hung all around our home, I think they look fantastic in the kitchen whether displayed on the sink window, a shelf, the back of a chair, or above a mantel. The traditional green foliage of our Faux Norfolk Pine wreath and Faux Cypress wreath perfectly complement kitchen décor and only need subtle adornment (if any!). For something a little different, our Jingle Bell wreath is a real treat for the senses.   Try a miniature tree or festive foliage This wouldn’t be a blog by The Suffolk Nest if I didn’t mention stems and foliage. Evergreen pieces, real and faux, have instant impact when displayed in a vase on your kitchen table or on the counter. Consider arranging three or four of our Faux Fir branches or Faux Aleppo Pine branches to give the room a festive feel. If you’d like a stem that can stay out all winter, I’d suggest our Faux Winter Lace Flower stems or Faux Rose Hips branches. Looking to place a tree in every room? Our Faux Norfolk Pine Tree is the perfect miniature option, just 65 cm tall with distinctive real-feel branches.   Bring in bows and Christmas prints If you’re keen to maximise the festive feel in your kitchen, you can go a step further by adding carefully placed bows on your display jars and vases. I like to choose calmer colours so the effect isn’t too overwhelming; our French Blue Velvet Ribbon and Misty Grey Frayed Edge Velvet Ribbon are both timeless choices. You could also switch out your apron and tea towel for a Christmas print. There’s a fine line to navigate but personally, I like printed fabrics that nod to the theme without veering into kitsch. Think snowflakes, holly, or Fair Isle prints in muted tones.