Tips

The Art of Arranging Red Lilies for an Elegant Altar Display

Decorating ancestral altars during Tet is a long-standing tradition. We are here to suggest a simple yet elegant way to arrange red lilies for your altar.

Administrator

11 July, 2024

Following the tradition of “Uống nước nhớ nguồn”, arranging flowers as an offering is not only about bringing the festive spirit of Tet but also holds a sacred meaning. Therefore, knowing how to arrange flowers is essential.

The red color of lilies symbolizes good wishes and hopes for a peaceful new year. Let’s learn how to create a simple yet elegant arrangement with these vibrant flowers.

1 Materials Needed

10 stems of yellow chrysanthemums
10 stems of red lilies
2 stems of orchid leaves
5 sprigs of betel leaves
5 sprigs of spotted bamboo leaves
Flower scissors
A vase

Essential materials

2 How to Arrange Red Lilies for an Offering

Simple yet elegant lily arrangement

Step 1 Fill the Vase with Water

Start by filling the vase with water to about ⅔ of its height. Then, crush 1-2 aspirin tablets and dissolve them in the water to help the flowers stay fresh for longer.

Step 2 Apply Tape

Apply transparent tape in a checkerboard pattern around the mouth of the vase. This will help the flowers stand upright and distribute them evenly.

Step 3 Trim the Stems

Use scissors to cut the red lily and yellow chrysanthemum stems diagonally to increase the surface area for water absorption. The stems should be roughly the same height, about twice or two-and-a-half times the height of the vase.

Steps of flower arrangement

Step 4 Arrange the Red Lilies

Gently insert the red lily stems into the vase, directing them towards the same side. Space the stems evenly, forming a fan-like shape.

Step 5 Add the Yellow Chrysanthemums

Alternate the yellow chrysanthemums with the previously arranged red lilies. Position the chrysanthemums slightly lower and closer to the mouth of the vase than the lilies.

Step 6 Add Orchid, Betel, and Spotted Bamboo Leaves

In the final step, add the orchid leaves in the center, interspersing them with the flowers, and arrange them in a circular pattern. Then, attach the betel and spotted bamboo leaves around the mouth of the vase to conceal the tape, stems, and flower bases.

3 The Finished Product

With these six simple steps, you’ve created a stunning arrangement of red lilies and yellow chrysanthemums, bringing the festive spirit of Tet to your home.

The final product

4 Tips for Flower Arranging

Helpful tips for flower arranging

When selecting flowers, opt for sturdy stems with thick, healthy leaves that have a vibrant green color and a slight shine.
If you want to create a slightly curved flower arrangement, gently bend the flower heads with your hands until you achieve the desired curve.
For a traditional arrangement in a tall vase, twist the flower stems in a spiral pattern to make the blooms face outward. Start by arranging the outer flowers at a shallower depth than the inner ones.
When creating an offering arrangement, limit the number of colors to 2-3 complementary shades to maintain a harmonious look.
Avoid arranging flowers too widely to the sides, as this may obstruct the photo of the deceased. Instead, direct the flowers forward or slightly upward.

We hope that through this article, you’ve gained insights into selecting and arranging red lilies for your offerings. Wishing you success in welcoming the spring festival!

Frequently asked questions

To create a stunning and elegant altar display with red lilies, you’ll need a variety of flower types, including red lilies, baby’s breath, and greenery. You will also need floral foam, a container, and floral tape or wire. Start by soaking the floral foam in water, then secure it in your chosen container. Cut the stems of the lilies and other flowers to the desired length, and begin arranging them in the foam, starting with the largest flowers first. Add baby’s breath and greenery to fill in gaps and create a full, lush display. Finally, use floral tape or wire to secure any loose stems and to add extra support to the arrangement.

When arranging red lilies, it’s important to consider their strong color and symbolism. Red lilies represent passion, love, and romance, so they are perfect for weddings or romantic gestures. To create a cohesive and elegant look, pair red lilies with white or soft pink flowers for a contrast that will make the red lilies pop. Also, consider the height and placement of the lilies – they work well as a focal point, so arrange them in a way that draws the eye and creates a sense of balance.

To prolong the life of your red lily arrangement, there are a few care tips to follow. Firstly, always use a clean vase or container, and ensure the water is changed regularly to prevent bacteria growth. Cut the stems at an angle when preparing the flowers, and re-cut them every few days to improve water absorption. Keep the arrangement away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as lilies are sensitive to extreme temperatures. Finally, remove any dead or wilting flowers or leaves to encourage the healthy blooms to last longer.

Red lilies are incredibly versatile flowers and can be used for a range of events and occasions. They are a popular choice for weddings, adding a touch of elegance and romance to the decor. Red lilies are also perfect for anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, or any event where you want to convey passion and love. Their bold color and striking appearance make them a statement flower, so they are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Absolutely! You can enhance your red lily arrangement by adding other elements such as ribbons, bows, or even sparkling accents. For a more natural look, incorporate greenery or baby’s breath to add texture and volume. Candles are another great addition, creating a romantic and intimate atmosphere. Get creative and experiment with different combinations to find your unique style.