Now that scorching summer temperatures have simmered down and fall has finally hit the Grand Canyon State, it’s high tide for hosting season. From October through December, The AZ Flower Garage is offering DIY workshops to help you learn how to create one-of-a-kind arrangements perfect for fall and winter get-togethers. The workshop lineup includes succulent pumpkin making, holiday-themed arrangements, fresh evergreen wreath making and more.

Dani Christakos, founder of and florist behind the boutique Scottsdale studio, shares two of her go-to festive floral arrangements that can be done at home in just a few simple steps.

Festive Floral Centerpiece

1. Create a color story

For fall, you can never go wrong with neutral and jewel tones.

Here are my favorite flowers to create this look…

Cream Roses

Their soft, classic look pairs beautifully with the fluffy, slightly rustic texture of dahlias.

Neutral Dahlias

Choose varieties with varied shapes and sizes to add depth and interest.

Greens

Incorporate a mix of textures—pittosporum’s rounded leaves and eucalyptus’s silvery, drooping branches add a natural elegance.

2. Arrange with care

These four elements are key to creating the perfect arrangements: vase choice, design, layering and foraging.

Vase Choice

Opt for a simple, understated vase to let the flowers and greens shine. A clear glass vase or a neutral-colored ceramic one works well.

Design

Create a balanced arrangement by placing roses as focal points and filling in with dahlias. Use greens to frame and soften the overall look.

Layering

Start with greens in the vase first, then add the dahlias, and finally, place the roses on top or as a highlight.

Foraging Tips

Ensure greens are fresh and avoid anything that might have been treated with chemicals.

Seasonal Succulent Arrangement

You can also kick your design up a notch by incorporating succulents, which add additional visual and textural interest and make your jewel tones pop.

Vase Choice

For a dramatic effect, consider using a bold-colored or metallic vase that complements the jewel tones.

Design

Start with succulents as a base or focal point, then add jewel-toned flowers around them. This will highlight the contrast between the flowers and succulents.

Layering

Place larger succulents and flowers at the base and smaller flowers and foliage on top. This creates visual interest and balance.

Secure Succulents

Ensure that succulents are securely placed and not too close together to allow each element to be appreciated.

Anytime Arrangement Tips

No matter the season, these three simple tips will keep your florals fresh and expand their lifetime.

Condition Flowers Properly

Trim stems at an angle and remove any leaves that will be submerged in water to prevent rot.

Change Water Regularly

Refresh water every few days to keep flowers hydrated and prevent bacterial growth.

Use Flower Food

Whenever it’s available, use a packet of “flower food” to extend the life of your arrangements and prevent unwanted bacterial growth.

For more, go to theazflowergarage.com