How to Create the Perfect Bouquet

Spring may not quite have sprung, but the season of the bouquet is well and truly upon us. With the countdown on to Valentine’s Day, with Mother’s Day and Easter on the horizon – plus whatever spring birthdays or anniversaries you have in your diary – we’re well and truly blooming.

As luck would have it, Liberty’s renowned in-house florists, Petals at Liberty, are specialists at crafting exquisite, elegant and impactful floral displays for every occasion. With an array of hand-tied options available to discover in the doorway of Liberty, here, the florists’ Kim Hitches shares tips on how to select and create the perfect bouquet for your lucky recipient.

What are the top three things someone should consider when buying a bouquet as a gift?

When choosing a bouquet as a gift, the first thing to consider is the recipient’s personality and style. Do they love soft, romantic tones and delicate textures, or are they drawn to bold, vibrant colours and sculptural shapes? Sharing these details with your florist helps them design something truly personal.

Next, think about seasonality. Asking what flowers are in season is always a great idea, as seasonal blooms offer the best quality, longevity, and natural beauty. Florists love working with what is naturally abundant, which often results in the most characterful designs.

Finally, consider the practical side. Will the flowers be placed straight into a vase? Stem length matters. If you are travelling before gifting them, ask for a water source, such as a water bubble, to keep the bouquet fresh.

What, to you, are three things that the “perfect” bouquet or arrangement should include?

Firstly, variety in bloom size is key. Larger, statement flowers create focal points, while smaller, delicate blooms and filler flowers add contrast and softness. This mix provides the arrangement with depth and visual interest.

Secondly, foliage plays an essential role. I prefer greenery to be thoughtfully placed to frame the flowers without overpowering them. Stems that naturally emerge through the design provide a more organic, garden-inspired feel.

Finally, variation in levels makes a significant difference. Incorporating different stem heights creates movement and reflects how flowers grow in nature, bringing a sense of life and looseness to the arrangement.

Aside from the classic reds and pinks, what colour or flower combinations appeal most for Valentine’s bouquets?

I enjoy introducing unexpected tones to give Valentine’s bouquets a modern feel. One of my favourite combinations is adding soft lilac shades alongside red and pink blooms. Lilac provides a gentle contrast that softens the palette; our exclusive Liberty Amour bouquet is a perfect example of this balance.

Another popular choice is something more playful, like rainbow gypsophila. Our “Rainbow of Love ” bouquet features these soft rainbow tones and offers a joyful, light-hearted alternative to classic red roses.

I also love mimosa at this time of year. Its vibrant yellow brings warmth and sunshine into winter. While not traditionally associated with Valentine’s Day, it is in peak season and adds beautiful texture to a bouquet.

Are there any flowers or foliage trending at the moment?

Gerberas are making a strong comeback. We are seeing more sophisticated tones and unusual shapes that make them feel contemporary and design-led.

An exciting newer addition to the cut flower world is cyclamen. Previously available only as potted plants, they are now available in bunches. Their naturally short stems make them perfect for bridal bouquets, bud vases, and delicate, detailed work.

We are also loving ferns and grasses. There are so many beautiful varieties, from soft and fluffy textures to more structured, architectural forms. They add movement, lightness and a modern, natural feel to arrangements.