Book Review of Vintage Flowers by Vic Brotherson

So many people have told me that I just ‘had’ to read ‘Vintage Flowers’ by Vic Brotherson, so I was delighted to recently receive a review copy.

And I must admit that once I’d started, I found the book very difficult to put down.  Vic’s vintage-style arrangements are absolutely stunning and in particular, I love the eclectic assortment of colourful containers that she uses to complement her designs. 

She says: “My advice would be to keep as many different styles of container as possible…” and that her “personal style is for the vintage, classic shapes of container with traditional lines that really allow the flowers to work their magic.”

You may remember that I featured Vic in a post back in the summer.  She’s the owner of a wonderful florist shop in London called Scarlet & Violet and has been a florist for twenty years.

This is her first book and it’s a real gem, split into sections including Rosy & Random, Blossom & Blousy, Herby & Homey, Blooms & Bonkers, Camellia & Constance, Holly & Ivy and Tools & Rules.

There’s also some ‘How Tos’ :

• How to make a hand-tied bunch
• How to make a satisfying jug of flowers
• When & how to used chicken wire
• How to use floral foam properly
• How to make a garland
• How to make a wreath

Plus there are sections on what to have in your tool cupboard, choosing flowers, preparing flowers, the perfect vase and how to arrange flowers.

I adore the beautiful photography by Catherine Gratwicke…and here are just a small selection of pages from this lovely book:

Vic’s book really is an explosion of colour with arrangements suitable for novices, as well as providing lots of inspiration for professional florists.  The real trick is to choose a container that will complement your flowers and fit harmoniously in the particular room in your house that you’re placing your finished arrangement.  Be it cornflowers in enamel jugs, dahlias in marmalade pots or amaryllis in pickling jars…

So, if you’re looking for Christmas present ideas, either for yourself, friends or relatives, I would highly recommend putting ‘Vintage Flowers’ on your list. It’s a wonderful piece of floral escapism…with lots of inspiration and helpful hints and tips too.

Oh, and if you’re in need of inspiration for decorating your home over the festive period, do take a look at the ‘Holly & Ivy’ section where there are beautiful door wreath ideas, lots of traditional red and green arrangements, plus designs in muted vintage hues.

(Images : Rona Wheeldon for Flowerona)