Thanksgiving Floral Centerpiece & Décor Handbook

What’s in season?

Chrysanthemums (Mums)

  • Known for their wide range of colors and shapes, chrysanthemums are a classic fall flower, symbolizing longevity and joy.

Roses

  • Available year-round thanks to greenhouse cultivation, roses in warm autumnal shades like orange, yellow, and deep red are perfect for late November.

Carnations

  • Another year-round option, carnations come in a variety of colors and are hardy, making them a great choice for arrangements.

Alstroemeria (Peruvian Lily)

  • These long-lasting blooms are available in vibrant colors like orange, pink, and yellow, ideal for Thanksgiving-themed arrangements.

Sunflowers

  • Some late-blooming sunflowers might still be available in warmer regions, adding a rustic, cheerful touch to your décor

Amaryllis

  • Often associated with the holiday season, amaryllis flowers are large and showy, blooming in late fall and early winter.

Poinsettias

  • Although more commonly thought of as a Christmas flower, poinsettias in warmer climates may start appearing in November.

Anemones

  • Delicate and striking, anemones bloom in cooler weather and come in bold colors like white, red, and purple.

How to balance your centerpiece or décor?

Creating beautiful arrangements is all about balancing colors, textures, and shapes.

  • Use a focal flower: Bold blooms like amaryllis or sunflowers draw attention, while smaller flowers like alstroemeria and carnations fill out the arrangement.
  • Balance colors: Pair warm tones (orange, yellow, red) with cool accents (white, green) for harmony.
  • Vary textures: Combine soft petals (roses, carnations) with structured elements (eucalyptus, holly) for interest.

Need some ideas?

Warm and Cozy Fall Bouquet

Flowers:

  • Chrysanthemums (yellow, orange, or burgundy)
  • Roses (deep red or peach)
  • Sunflowers
  • Alstroemeria (orange or yellow)

Accents:

  • Eucalyptus for texture and fragrance
  • Wheat stalks or dried grasses for an autumnal touch

Why It Works:

The warm tones of chrysanthemums, roses, and sunflowers create a cozy and inviting look, while the texture from eucalyptus and wheat adds dimension.

2. Elegant Thanksgiving Centerpiece

Flowers:

  • Amaryllis (white or deep red)
  • Roses (peach or red)
  • Carnations (burgundy or cream)

Accents:

  • Holly for a pop of red berries
  • Pinecones and evergreen sprigs for texture

Why It Works:

The bold, elegant amaryllis pairs beautifully with classic roses and carnations. The addition of seasonal greenery and pinecones ties it to the late fall/early winter theme.

3. Rustic Charm Arrangement

Flowers:

  • Sunflowers
  • Alstroemeria (yellow or orange)
  • Anemones (white or purple)

Accents:

  • Dried lavender or thistle for a rustic feel
  • Burlap ribbon around the vase for extra charm

Why It Works:

This arrangement plays with contrasts: the rustic sunflower pairs with delicate anemones, and alstroemeria adds a whimsical pop of color.

4. Winter Transition Arrangement

Flowers:

  • Chrysanthemums (white or pale yellow)
  • Anemones (white with black centers)
  • Carnations (soft pink or white)

Accents:

  • Eucalyptus for a frosty green touch
  • Silver-painted pinecones or branches for shimmer

Why It Works:

The soft whites and pastels create a serene, wintry feel while still nodding to the transition from fall to winter.

5. Vibrant Autumn Celebration

Flowers:

  • Roses (orange and red)
  • Chrysanthemums (golden yellow and burgundy)
  • Alstroemeria (red or orange)

Accents:

  • Hypericum berries for a pop of texture
  • Dried oak leaves for a rich autumnal look

Why It Works:

Bold autumn colors combine in this vibrant arrangement, with the hypericum berries and oak leaves adding seasonal flair.