When prepping for any market or show, one of my tasks is to create the displays. There are several spaces in my booth where the frame is set up to not only show the different color combinations, but also ways that customers can style the space around it. It’s a great way for people to see the versatility of it and be inspired to create similar spaces once they get their new frame home. But out of all the different home decor items I have used to create displays with, plants are the MVP. Any form of plant or greenery is an absolute staple for me when decorating. It adds texture, height, color, contrast… everything you want and need out of an accessory. Below are some examples straight out of my booth displays to help illustrate how you can use the different types of greenery.
If you’ve strolled the aisles of any retail store, you have undoubtedly seen many of the little faux plants in cute planters. Pick up any of these inexpensive pieces to make a perfect partner for your frame. Choose a plant that is small to medium in size and by simply setting it next to the frame, you’ve automatically created more visual interest. If you have a decorative base, a good rule of thumb is to set the plant on the opposite side of where the embellishment sits to create balance. Also consider the spacing- you’ll want the pieces close enough so that it registers as a set. Think of it as a couple who’s been married for a few years. They’re not right on top of each other like newlyweds, but they’re also not sleeping in separate bedrooms like grandma & grandpa. Just the right amount of space between the two pieces.
Another way to incorporate greenery into the space where your frame lives is with garland. Garland is great for areas where your frame can be seen from multiple vantage points. A eucalyptus garland or any equivalent greenery is a great year round option. For the holidays, you can use a fall colored garland (see picture) or a snowy pine garland for the winter. If you have a decorative base, just make sure the garland you choose doesn't clash. Drape the garland around the base, starting on one side, wrapping around the back and then trailing it off on the opposite side. If it’s too long, you can always double back on itself to make the garland even fuller. It’s not ideal to place the garland in front or through the middle of the frame because it will hide the base and lose cohesiveness.
And finally, we have picks and stems. While beautiful, this option is a little less versatile. If your frame is in a centerpiece on a coffee table or dining table where it can be seen from all angles, picks may not be the best option. The ends of stems or picks are meant to be hidden, which isn’t easily done unless your frame sits in front of a wall where the back can’t be seen and is above eye level, such as a bookshelf or mantel. But why does eye level matter? Take an entry table for example- yes, it’s in front of a wall, but you can still clearly see the back of base and therefore the end of the stems. Of course there are ways to hide it in any application, it will just take a little more effort.Remember, decorating is all about experimenting and finding what works best for your personal style and taste. Have fun and don't be afraid to play around with different combinations until you find an arrangement that you love. Follow me over on Instagram or Facebook for more inspiration and ways to style your frame.
