Summer trend: Floating flowers displays

From ponds to pools – the perfect way to prettify an al fresco party

When you combine the tranquillity of water with the beauty of flowers, something truly magical happens – which is why floating flower displays add the perfect finishing touch to any outdoor event.

Whether it’s a garden party, a pool party or a lavish summer wedding, there is a floating flower display to suit your needs.

Which flowers float best?

Aquatic flowers, such as water lilies and lotus flowers, make a natural choice for floating flower displays. And with their majestic crowns of colour, the effect is nothing short of spectacular.

But many non-aquatic flowers can float equally well – simply snip the stem close to the base of the flower. Flat-headed flowers, such as gerberas are ideal – choose a combination of hot pink, deep orange and sunshine yellow to evoke tropical sunset vibes.

Lush blooms with a broad surface – think chrysanthemums and peonies – make a bold but feminine statement. Roses can also float well but choose a more full and ‘blousy’ variety, such as the Polyantha.

Floating wreaths

Ranunculus and anemones (with their contrasting black centres) make pretty alternatives and are ideal for floating wreaths. Try making your own, like this geometric version at Paper & Stitch.

Lotus and lily

Water lilies and lotus flowers are built to glide on the water and make an ideal choice for outdoor weddings. If you’re getting married by a lake or near a pond or water feature, float a few of these in the water to add a touch of elegance to proceedings and a touch of colour to those wedding snaps.

TIP: Bring the display to life after sundown, by interspersing with floating candles.

Hula heaven

Whether you’re lucky enough to have your own pool or you’re renting a place with a pool for the holidays, a few flowers scattered on the surface of the water makes for instant pool-party paradise. A simple way to keep your flowers contained in one area is to use plastic hula-hoops.

TIP: Black hoops look great with bright flowers – or switch to white hoops for a pretty wedding display.

Pool pomanders

If you really want to make a statement and ensure your flower display is centre stage, why not go for floating flower balls (also known as pool pomanders or kissing balls)? Buy them ready made or if you’re the crafty type, you could try making your own.