There’s something magical about fall that speaks to my soul—those deep, earthy tones, the rustling textures of dried grasses and leaves, and the way nature gently reminds us to slow down and savor the moment. 

As a florist, I see this season as an invitation to bring the outdoors in—to tell the story of the harvest through flowers, foliage, and texture. I love layering in fruits like pomegranates and figs, and working with rich-toned blooms like dahlias, mums, and amaranthus. There’s such beauty in their depth and imperfection. 

Incorporating harvest elements into your fall floral designs adds not only texture and interest, but also a deeper connection to the season’s story. 

Try using:

• Mini pumpkins or gourds
• Dried seed pods and pinecones
• Sprigs of wheat and dried grasses
• Berries and autumn leaves
• Dried or preserved flowers or fruit
• Fresh fruit like grapes or pomegranates
• Copper or gold metallic wires for a modern accent

These details introduce organic movement and tactile texture, beautifully capturing the essence of the harvest season.

This fall, invite your customers to celebrate the full bounty of nature—fruits, foliage, and festive flair—artfully arranged to honor the season.

Creative Containers: Beyond the Vase

To truly evoke the spirit of the season, think outside the standard vase and bring in natural or nostalgic vessels that deepen the story.

• Hollowed pumpkins or squash: Perfect for rustic, farm-to-table charm.
• Mini pumpkins: Adorable containers for smaller, intimate designs.
• Wicker baskets or vintage wooden boxes: Bring a cozy, collected feel.
• Heirloom bowls or low-profile ceramics: Lend understated elegance.

These vessels don’t just hold flowers—they become part of the design itself, anchoring the arrangement in the richness of fall.

Design Tip:

When designing with pumpkins or gourds:

• Choose firm, fresh produce to ensure structural integrity.
• Line the inside with a waterproof container to protect the shell and maintain freshness.

Harvest-Inspired Centerpieces

As the crisp air of fall settles in and Thanksgiving approaches, it’s a time to celebrate gratitude, gathering, and abundance. It’s a chance to translate the rich palette of the harvest season into stunning floral designs that elevate every home throughout the autumn season.

Thanksgiving is centered around the dining table—where stories are shared and memories made—so floral designs should enhance the moment, not interrupt it. That’s why low, elongated arrangements are ideal—they draw the eye and invite warmth without blocking views.

As clients look to create meaningful experiences for their guests, offering designs that embody gratitude, abundance, and the joy of the harvest can set your floral business apart.

Thanksgiving Sales Tips

• Garlands: Great for long tables, mantels, or staircases.
• Bud vases & accent pieces: Offer them as add-ons to larger centerpieces.
• Hostess gifts: Market small bouquets or hand-tied wraps as perfect “thank-you” gestures.
• Bundles: Offer centerpiece + wreath + garland sets for full-home décor.
• Add Value With Local Flair: Pair your arrangements with locally made candles, napkin rings, or mini pumpkins to create a full tablescape package.

This fall, let your designs do more than decorate—let them tell a story. Celebrate the textures, tones, and bounty of the season with arrangements that feel authentic, warm, and artfully crafted. Whether you’re designing for a client’s holiday table or your own, remember: flowers speak a language of their own.

Invite nature in. Let the season guide you. And design with heart.

About the Author
Nita Robertson, AIFD, is a floral industry leader, educator, and creative professional with more than 20 years of experience. A Certified Floral Designer since 2014 and inducted into AIFD in 2015, she has held leadership roles, including Teleflora Education Unit Past President, AIFD Northwest Regional Past President, and currently serves as National Marketing Committee Chair. Nita owned Santa Cruz Floral for 17 years before becoming Publisher and Sales Manager at Florists’ Review Media Group (2021–2025), where she combined editorial leadership, advertising strategy, and design education to grow engagement across print and digital platforms. Today, she continues to inspire and strengthen the floral community nationwide as one of the industry correspondents for New Bloom Media.

Published by New Bloom Media
New Bloom Media (NBM) is the first multi-channel B2B media platform dedicated solely to the floral industry across the Americas. Through thought leadership, industry insights, and collaborative storytelling, NBM helps businesses innovate, connect, and thrive.

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