CELEBRATE THE USA

with a patriotic display

WHAT’S NEW

This Independence Day, top florists are getting into the spirit by styling bright, textural wreaths in festive hues that pop! “Here, the smooth, formal red roses burst from the casual, rustic ruffles of white and blue wildflowers,” says floral expert Kathy Shumac. “The result is a high-contrast display with modern texture. Whether it’s showcased on a chair or a front door, it’s a lovely way to greet guests and honor the day!”

GET THE LOOK

Soak a 12" floral foam wreath in water. Cut a dozen red roses (from your garden or the supermarket) to 3 inches. Press stems into the foam, spacing them out evenly. Next, snip a few handfuls of blue tansy, white cow parsley and white Queen Anne’s lace to 3 inches and gather a few stems of each together to form mini “bouquets.” Press into the foam to fill in gaps around the roses, then hang the wreath.

INSIDER’S SECRET

To keep your wreath lively for a week or more, Shumac suggests giving it a “bath” every other day. To do: Fill a sink with 1 inch of water, then add 2 Tbs. of white vinegar and 2 Tbs. of sugar and soak the wreath for about five minutes. The water hydrates the blooms, the vinegar eradicates bacteria and the sugar nourishes. Then simply shake off the water and rehang the display.