Create your own Christmas wreath....

Creating your own Christmas wreath with fresh foliage is a fun, creative way to deck your halls for the holidays. Plus, the lovely smells of pine, spruce, and cedar are a perfect seasonal touch! Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to making your own wreath that will impress your guests and spread holiday cheer. You’ll need….

Fresh greenery: Pine, fir, cedar, holly, eucalyptus, etc.

Wreath frame: You can buy a wire or wooden frame, or make one from flexible twigs.

Florist wire or garden wire

Floral pins (optional)

Scissors or garden shears

Hot glue gun (for any extra decorations)

Decorative elements: Ornaments, ribbons, dried fruit, cinnamon sticks, pine cones, etc.

Step 1: Gather Your Foliage

Head to your favourite local florist to gather a variety of fresh greenery. Look for a mix of textures—think sprigs of fir, branches of holly, sprigs of eucalyptus, and maybe a few pine cones for extra holiday flair. Aim for around 10-15 bunches, depending on the size of your wreath.

Step 2: Prep Your Frame

If you're using a wire wreath frame, wrap a thin layer of wire around it to create a base. You can also use a grapevine wreath frame for a more rustic look. Make sure the frame is secure and easy to work with.

Step 3: Start Layering the Greenery

Take a piece of your fresh greenery, and trim it to a manageable length (around 6-8 inches). Lay it across the wreath frame, with the stems pointing outward. Use florist wire to attach the greenery to the frame—wrap the wire tightly around the stem and the frame to hold it in place.

Continue layering in a circular motion, overlapping the stems as you go to create a full, lush wreath. Be sure to alternate your foliage types for texture and depth.

Step 4: Secure and Shape the Wreath

Once you've covered the entire wreath frame, check for any gaps or loose bits of greenery. Fill in those spaces by layering smaller branches or sprigs to make your wreath more symmetrical. If needed, trim any excess to shape the wreath evenly.

Step 5: Add Your Decorative Touches

Now for the fun part—adding festive decorations! You can hot glue small pine cones, berries, dried orange slices, or cinnamon sticks to give your wreath that extra pop. Add a big, beautiful ribbon bow at the top to complete the look.

If you like a more rustic vibe, you could also wrap a string of fairy lights around the wreath to give it a magical glow.

Step 6: Hang Your Wreath

Once everything is secure, find the perfect spot to display your wreath. Use a simple ribbon to hang it on your door, or secure it to a hook inside for a festive centerpiece. Voilà! You've got a homemade, fresh foliage wreath that’s ready to spread Christmas cheer!

Keep your wreath hydrated by misting it with water every few days, especially if you're using delicate foliage like eucalyptus. For longer-lasting greenery, keep the wreath out of direct sunlight and avoid heat sources.

Enjoy your festive creation and happy holidays! And if that all seems like a bit much to take on this hectic holiday season, you can click here to order a beautiful bespoke wreath created especially for you by the Lillipollen team. 🎄

Feature Flower....

CHRISTMAS BUSH

As the holiday season approaches, florists and flower enthusiasts alike are always on the lookout for that special touch to brighten up festive arrangements. Enter the NSW Christmas Bush (Ceratopetalum gummiferum), a striking native Australian plant that has become a beloved feature in Christmas bouquets and seasonal floral designs.

Native to the coastal regions of New South Wales, Australia, this evergreen shrub is best known for its vibrant red flowers that bloom around Christmas time, giving it a festive flair. Its small, creamy-white flowers are surrounded by bright, papery red sepals, which is what makes it look so eye-catching and festive. The combination of the lush green foliage and the bold red color has made it synonymous with the holiday season in Australia, much like poinsettias in other parts of the world.

The bold, red color of the NSW Christmas Bush is a natural fit for holiday arrangements. Whether used in wreaths, table centerpieces, or as a striking feature in bouquets, its vibrant hue brings an instant burst of festive spirit. While it’s often used in traditional Christmas arrangements, NSW Christmas Bush also pairs well with other native flowers, like wattles or banksias, giving florists the freedom to create unique, stunning designs that capture the essence of Australian flora. Whether you're decorating your home, creating a Christmas bouquet, or looking to add a touch of Australian flora to your arrangements, the NSW Christmas Bush is a stunning choice. Its bold red blooms, lasting beauty, and sustainable nature make it a floristry favorite, helping to bring joy and color to the holiday season.

So, why not add a bit of Australian festive magic to your next floral design? The NSW Christmas Bush is sure to brighten up any holiday setting.

Feature Flower....

HYDRANGEA

Hydrangea, commonly named the hortensia, is a genus of more than 70 species of flowering plants native to Asia and the Americas. By far the greatest species diversity is in eastern Asia, notably China, Korea, and Japan. If there’s one flower that’s been making waves in modern floristry, it’s the hydrangea. Known for its full, fluffy blooms and beautiful array of colors, this flower has become a wedding staple that adds a touch of elegance and romance to any celebration.

The hydrangea's charm lies in its versatility. From soft pastels like blush pink and lavender to bolder shades of blue and deep purple, these flowers can complement almost any wedding theme or color palette. Whether you’re going for a vintage, rustic, or sophisticated vibe, hydrangeas have a way of fitting right in, making them the go-to choice for florists and brides alike.

One of the key reasons hydrangeas are so popular in weddings is their sheer volume. A few stems are enough to fill a bouquet or centerpiece, creating a lush, abundant look without needing a ton of other flowers. They also make for beautiful bridal bouquets, either as the star of the show or paired with other blooms like roses, peonies, or even greenery for added texture.

Another reason hydrangeas are wedding favorites? They symbolize gratitude, grace, and abundance—perfect sentiments for starting a new chapter in life! Plus, they photograph beautifully, making them an essential part of wedding florals that will look just as stunning in photos as they do in person.

So, if you’re planning a wedding and looking for that perfect floral touch, look no further than the hydrangea. It’s the perfect combination of beauty, meaning, and practicality. Whether it’s cascading from your bridal bouquet or gracing the tables at your reception, these flowers are sure to make your big day even more unforgettable! 🌸

Feature Flower....

PEONY POWER

The peony season in Australia has finally arrived! Every year from late October to mid December this intoxicating bloom fills our homes and instagram feeds with bursts of colour. The season is not long and differs each year depending on the weather, creating a frantic enthusiasm for this fluffy favourite!

The Peony's Origins: A Timeless Beauty

Peonies are no new kids on the block! In fact, they’ve been around for thousands of years, dating back to ancient China, where they were cherished for their medicinal properties as well as their beauty. The flower’s name comes from Paeon, a physician to the gods in Greek mythology, who used the plant to heal wounded deities. Today, peonies still carry that aura of elegance and grace, symbolizing everything from love and romance to prosperity and good fortune.

The Peony Steals the Spotlight in Wedding Floral Arrangements

When it comes to wedding flowers, there’s one bloom that has earned its spot as the reigning star of romance—and no, it’s not a rose. It’s the peony! These lush, voluminous flowers have captured the hearts of brides (and florists) alike, and for good reason. Whether used in bridal bouquets, centerpieces, or floral arches, the peony’s soft, full petals and range of dreamy colors make it the perfect choice for a wedding that’s nothing short of magical.

Romantic, Soft, and Dreamy—A Bride's Best Friend

The peony is often described as the quintessential symbol of romance, and it’s not hard to see why. With its billowy petals and rounded form, the peony exudes an air of softness and femininity that pairs perfectly with the dreamy aesthetic many brides crave. It’s no wonder the peony has earned its place in countless wedding day florals—its visual appeal makes everything feel a little more magical.

If you’re envisioning a soft, romantic vibe for your big day, the peony is your go-to flower. The gentle curves and lavish layers of petals give off an aura of elegance, while still feeling fresh and natural. It’s the kind of bloom that says, “This is the happiest day of my life,” without uttering a word.

An Array of Gorgeous Shades to Match Any Theme

Peonies come in nearly every shade you can imagine, making them incredibly versatile. Whether you’re dreaming of a classic white wedding, a soft blush affair, or a bold pop of color, peonies have a hue to match. From pale pinks and creamy whites to vibrant fuchsias and deep burgundies, there’s a peony to suit any color palette.

For a modern twist, some brides are choosing peach, coral, or even lavender peonies, adding a fresh, unexpected touch to their arrangements. The range of colors makes it easy to incorporate peonies into any wedding theme, from rustic barn settings to chic garden parties.

The Power of Fragrance

Another reason peonies have stolen our hearts? Their intoxicating scent. While not overwhelmingly strong, peonies have a delicate, sweet fragrance that fills the air without overpowering the senses. It’s a subtle, soothing aroma that can enhance the sensory experience of your wedding day, adding a layer of elegance and calmness to your celebration.

A Symbol of Prosperity and Happy Marriage

For those who like to incorporate symbolism into their wedding day, peonies are rich in meaning. In many cultures, the peony is seen as a symbol of good fortune, prosperity, and a happy marriage. In ancient China, peonies were often associated with wealth and honor, while in the language of flowers (also known as floriography), they represent love, affection, and good luck.

So, not only are you adding a stunning bloom to your arrangements, but you’re also inviting a little extra bit of magic into your married life. It’s a win-win!

From Classic to Contemporary: Peonies Are Timeless

One of the reasons the peony continues to reign supreme in wedding florals is its timelessness. It’s a classic flower that feels just as appropriate in an elegant ballroom as it does at a modern, boho wedding. Whether you want a traditional bridal bouquet filled with soft pastels or a wildflower-inspired arrangement with a mix of peonies, the flower adapts beautifully to all types of wedding styles.

Peonies can even stand out in a more minimalistic wedding with just a few blooms used to make a bold statement. It’s one of those rare flowers that works in any context—making it easy to see why it’s a favorite among brides.

Seasonal Blooms with a Short, Sweet Window

Here’s where things get a little tricky. Peonies are highly seasonal, typically blooming in late spring to early summer, making them a bit of a rarity outside those months. This limited availability adds a touch of exclusivity to their beauty. If you happen to get married during peony season, you’ll have one of the most coveted flowers in the floral world gracing your wedding day. (Just be sure to plan your wedding around the season if you’re set on having peonies!)

For those getting married outside the peony's natural bloom time, some florists offer stunning peony-inspired alternatives like garden roses or ranunculus, which mimic the fullness and shape of peonies. But there’s just something magical about getting to use the real deal on your special day.

Some of the more popular varieties include -

Sarah Bernhardt - One of the most well-known varieties, 'Sarah Bernhardt' features soft pink, ruffled flowers with a strong fragrance. It's often considered the quintessential peony.

Coral Charm - This semi-early bloomer produces soft coral-pink flowers that age to a buttery yellow. It’s a unique peony with a lovely color transition as it matures.

Red Charm - This peony has large, deep red flowers and is highly sought after for its vibrant color and excellent cut flower quality.

In Conclusion: Peonies Are a Perfect Wedding Bloom

Whether you choose them for their romantic symbolism, their versatility in color, or their sheer beauty, peonies have earned their place as a wedding staple. Their soft petals, sweet fragrance, and timeless elegance make them a perfect match for brides looking to create a stunning, memorable day. So, if you’ve been thinking about adding a few (or a dozen!) to your wedding arrangements, take this as a sign to go for it—the peony is ready to help make your wedding bloom in the most beautiful way possible!

Now, who’s ready to plan their dream peony-filled wedding? 🌸💍

Feature Flower....

THE WARATAH

The bold form and eye-catching colour of the waratah ensures its place as one of the best-known Australian native flowers. This iconic beauty is most commonly found in deep crimson red and lesser-known cream and pink hues. The waratah is native to south-eastern parts of Australia including New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania, but is most common in the Sydney area of NSW.

The waratah plant generally grows to 3 metres in height and although it looks like one flower it is in fact made up of many flowers joined into a head ranging from 6-15cm in diameter on a thick, woody stem. These hardy blooms are in abundance every spring.

When choosing waratahs, look for blooms that are partly opened and coloured deep crimson. When the flower has a visible blue-tinge it is a sign they are expiring. Strip leaves off the lower part of the woody stem before cutting approximately 2cm off the ends on an angle using sharp secateurs. Immediately plunge into a vase of cool water, recutting the stems and changing the water every two days.

These bold beauties shine when styled in a grouped modern design with other Australian native flora and eucalyptus foliage. They also look fabulous when arranged en masse in a clear glass vase to showcase their strong form, from their thick, woody stems to their luscious, jagged-edged leaves and magnificently unique flower.

Hot tips for longer lasting blooms.…

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CARE FACTOR

We love our flowers, and we want you to love them too for as long as possible! Follow these six simple flower care tips to help keep your flowers looking fresher for longer. These tips apply to our beautifully wrapped bouquets - if your flowers have arrived in a glass vase you can skip straight to step 4.

1. Unwrap your bouquet as soon as possible - we include a water absorbing gel pack on the stems of our wrapped bouquets - remove this and discard, or safely recycle the water absorbing crystals by mixing into garden soil or potting mix.

2. Cut the stems of your bouquet with sharp scissors. Keep the stems on the longer side with the first cut, because you’ll need to trim them every few days.

3. Hydrate your blooms by placing them in a vase of clean, fresh, room temperature water. Ideally, you’ll replace the water in your vase every two days for optimum freshness! 

4. Keep your fresh flowers in a cool spot away from sunlight so they last as long as possible, and avoid places that have a lot of airflow, like directly under the air conditioner vent or a ceiling fan. ⁠Airflow increases evaporation and dries out the flowers, and heat sources make them bloom and fade much more quickly.⁠ You also want to keep your fresh flowers away from ripening fruits or vegetables because they emit a gas called ethylene which can cause cut flowers to age more rapidly — making them more susceptible to wilting and withering before their time.

5. Check your flowers daily to remove dead leaves and petals - it’s perfectly normal for certain flowers to last longer than others in your bouquet or arrangement - removing any dead flowers will ensure the remaining blooms last as long as possible.

6. Repeat for best results. Recut the stems and change the water in your vase every two days for optimal longevity.

ENJOY!

PRO TIP: Be sure to wash the vase/container very thoroughly in hot soapy water or, better yet, in your dishwasher once you no longer have your arrangement. Bacteria builds up in vases and does not go away when the vase dries out. Once you add water again, the vase could be full of bacteria and affect a new bouquet. Give your flowers a clean environment free of bacteria and they will last longer.