Deck the halls with fabulous florals

LET LONDON'S HOTTEST FLORISTS SHOW YOU HOW TO CREATE A FESTIVE WONDERLAND, SAYS AMIRA HASHISH

- AMIRA HASHISH

Long before the presents are wrapped or the table is set, bundles of pine, bowls of bulbs and the soft glow of seasonal greenery signal that the celebrations have truly begun.

This year, London's hottest florists are championing volume, scent and sculptural shapes — which can all be achieved on a modest budget. Some phenomenal foliage can even be foraged for free.

Florist and sculptural designer Hamish Powell (@hamishpowell), who Charli xcx chose to design her wedding bouquet, recommends boldness in your festive botanicals. “For a dramatic festive sculpture, I would commit to one bold shape. Then play with contrast, such as soft against structured or pale against rich tones, to make it feel intentional and striking.”

Even a handful of branches can become sculptural when arranged thoughtfully, says Powell. And they can be found for free. “My favourite festive florals are whatever I can forage from the woods behind my mum’s house. All sorts of treasures await. Weird moss, strange branches, delicate ferns!” If you are foraging, remember to take only from the ground or with permission. And Powell also looks to new season narcissus that arrive in December for a reminder that spring is on its way. “I will have a base of them by my bed and drench the room with their fragrance.”