Now, back to the dilemma at hand. You have no flowers for your party and your holiday budget is shot. Fear not fellow décor junkies, I have solutions. It doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming to come up with quick arrangements and you don’t need to browse expensive flower shops for inspiration.

One way to save money on your arrangements is to go to your local florist or grocery store and pick from what they have on-hand and do it yourself. Some of the yet-to-be-arranged flowers are much cheaper than those a professional has already arranged. Anybody can be a florist; it just takes a little imagination. Or if bouquets are on sale, buy a couple of different types and try mixing them up your own unique greenery and to achieve a custom look.

A unique presentation can also be achieved by picking the perfect vessels for your creation. If you’re going to take the time to create a stunning arrangement, don’t just chuck them in an ordinary vase or it may look boring. I have picked five unique vessels to display the looks and spruce up your digs.

Tropical twist
Purchased at the grocery store, a mix of exotic flowers (like birds of paradise, for one) will create drama by adding height. When mixed with other organic touches such as curly willow, they will add the wow factor you need for your party. Try placing three arrangements together as a centrepiece on your dining or coffee table. The tropical twist theme is the perfect addition to a non-traditional holiday party or Thai-inspired dinner party.

Tailored fit
A streamlined, traditional look can work well if you’re dressing a more conventional table. The look is refined and simple. Using elegant, simple, white flowers is key to achieving this look. White hydrangeas placed in a glass vessel or a traditional pewter vase is both stylish and interesting. Tulips are another favourite of mine, as they are full of dramatic appeal when bunched in a traditional vase. Be sure to add greenery to the look, but try not to overdo it. A little will go a long way.

Sculptured surprise
An arrangement doesn’t need to consist of flowers alone in a vase; you can use items like Styrofoam balls to add shape to your piece. Try using different shaped styrofoam balls and push inexpensive flowers like carnations into them. Carnations don’t evoke a sense of luxury on their own, but when grouped together they can look remarkable.  Be sure to put each one close together and use the same colour carnations for a great bold look, or mix up the hues to achieve a fun and whimsical look. Using two similar-sized wooden dowels, stick all three balls together to create a topiary effect. If you’re stumped to find the perfect vase, your favourite decorative bowl can second as a flower holder for a more casual look. To add more dimensions to the arrangement, try placing them in a larger vase, but with the flowers at different heights.

Mix and match
Taking different store-bought flowers and putting them together is an excellent idea, especially if you are on a budget. I have taken two pre-purchased bouquets and picked out the stems I like from each and created an all new, more stylish arrangement. As most store-bought bouquets tend to be a little boring and mainstream, this is a great way to get creative and make something showing your own personal style.

Even if you don’t believe you have an eye for it, just think of your party’s colour palette and be sure to add some greenery to match. And of course, don’t forget to use a great container to house the arrangement.

Casual organic
Greenery and berries are inexpensive, and when grouped together, they provide a fantastic organic look. This look is perfect for fall or the upcoming Christmas season as they are in season and affordable. The look is casual but will deliver the impact that you need. I also love the look of kiwi twigs and curly willow, as they add an organic and sculptural feeling to table arrangements. Try incorporating these with large palm leaves in a wooden vessel, again achieving that chic organic appearance.

Remember, having flowers in your home need not be expensive or over-the-top. There are simple ways of going about having fresh flowers at your fingertips at all times, not just for a party. They really do go a long way in making a space come together. However, if there is ever a time you must have fresh flowers in your home, it should be for a fabulous get-together.

Happy Decorating!