The best flowers for decorating are the ones that embrace the season.  Here in New England, hydrangeas are a favorite.  While putting together some arrangements for a wedding rehearsal dinner, I knew this seasonal flower was the best choice.  Wanting to personalize the arrangement in some way, I decided to add the future bride and groom’s initials by creating monogrammed tie-ons crafted from natural elements.

I used some cocoa colored stamp pad ink and stamps to stamp on pieces of wood.  If you aren’t into cutting and sanding wood, you can easily find something similar at a craft store or on Etsy.

An easy and wonderful way to help the spacing stay consistent when stamping is to simply use an elastic to hold the two letters and ampersand stamps together while applying the monogram.

Once your tie-ons are completed, you can save them to add to your completed centerpieces.  Harvest (or purchase) the seasonal favorites you plan on using. If you are truly embracing the season, it is best to use something that is presently in bloom…such a great way to evoke feelings of gardens and the season. :)

Hydrangeas are really great all on their own.  These were being placed on a chocolate colored table cloth so I just added a couple curly sticks as accents and tied twine around clear vases.  Perfect!

In appreciating every last bit of summer, try to find some of your own ways to embrace the season…bringing some of your garden (or a friend’s garden…thanks Phyllis!) indoors is certainly one great way!

Enjoy your week.  Remember to take pleasure in simple things, Jackie

Sharing at Mona’s Picturesque and Craftberry Bush.