Flower Arranging 101 | Overcoming Fears

how to arrange flowers flawlessly and be confident in the process

Welcome to flower arranging for beginners. Learn how to arrange flowers with confidence like a professional. This is a story of overcoming fear of failure to arrive on the other side where empowerment and success reside. You can do it.

overcome your fear of flower arrangingFlower Arranging 101

I bet you have a long list, like I do, of things you’re “not good at.” Some of those things might have landed on your list when you were a child and then over the years, little by little that list has grown. Well, one of the things on my list was flower arranging. I remember my grandmother lovingly arranging flowers in a bouquet. And I remember my mother struggling as she hopelessly tried to get a bunch of flowers to look like something more than just “flowers stuck in a vase.” She would say, “Oh, your grandmother is so good at that!” somehow planting the seed in my brain that this was something you either were or weren’t good at.

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Flower arranging was definitely on my list of things “I wasn’t good at.” It had been there since I can remember. Solidified by the impression that it was either something that came to one naturally, easily, without effort, or not at all. Now that I think about this idea it sounds awfully silly. The truth is that I had never given it much thought, time or effort. Because.it was on “the list,” and God forbid I spend time doing something I might not be good at. That could be scary. Why? Because I could fail.

A Trip to the Flower Market

Flash forward to last Friday when my blogging buddy and super sweet can-do friend Janine of Happy Happy Nester invited me to accompany her on a trip to the San Francisco Flower Market. I was excited. What would I buy? Oh, probably nothing. I had no idea what to do with flowers. Or maybe I would do what I usually do to conceal this fact from the world. I would just buy a few flowers, and I would just stick them in a vase.

But something happened when we got to the flower market. I started getting excited. There were gorgeous flowers everywhere, more than I had ever seen. There were many kinds I had never seen before. My senses were utterly and completely overwhelmed with colors and smells. As I tried to take it all in a funny idea started to take over me. A little voice inside my head started to whisper, “You can do this.” It was faint at first, and I tried to ignore it.

Meanwhile, the other voice inside my head was much louder. It repeated what I had always told myself, phrases like, “You can’t arrange flowers!” “Don’t try it!” “You’ll fail!”

I watched Janine as she confidently wandered around picking up flowers, grouping them together, looking for the exact colors and composition that would look good.

easy flower arranging

I wandered about aimlessly, and then I started to dream.

What if I had the confidence that Janine did, and I could pick out flowers and make them look beautiful?

What if I tried?

The flowers were so gorgeous, so miraculous, and so tempting. All I had to do was listen to the voice growing louder, “you can do this.”

I picked up some flowers.

It took me awhile. I wandered around and around. I realized I was holding all of the same flowers Janine had. Oops. I put all my flowers down.

If I was going to do this I needed to reach inside, dig deep, and come up with my own vision and my own creation. I needed to be inspired. I wandered some more and looked with new eyes, fresh eyes. And my vision slowly came into view.

By the time I was done I had selected seven different kinds of flowers. Most of them I didn’t even know the names of. I hardly had an overlapping flower that Janine had. I had chosen a totally unique color scheme. And I was excited. I was going to do this.

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easy flower arranging tips

Flower Arranging: My First Moments of Sheer Panic

As I walked away laden with two arms full of flowers, I had my first thoughts of panic. “What would I put them in?”  I asked Janine. She said, “A vase?” I was like, “Oh, yeah, I have a vase.” Remain calm. But that wasn’t what was in my vision. I was picturing a real floral arrangement, one that would do justice to these amazing flowers. These weren’t just flowers from the grocery store. And I wasn’t going to just throw them in a vase and pretend that was it. These flowers were worthy of so much more. I knew I had to create something special.

Our next stop was the floral supply stores where I found the perfect containers. I found a rattan bunny and a few short moss-covered containers that would be ideal for my spring/Easter theme. I purchased a brick of flower foam, or oasis. As we chatted away, I could feel a growing anxiety. I felt a nervous energy that I tried to ignore. The voice said, “what if I can’t do this?”

Conquer fear take risks

Janine and I pausing after our trip to the Flower Market at this quaint French cafe. It felt like we had spent the day in Montmartre, Paris.

Home to My Flower Arranging and More Panic

I finally got home and laid all my flowers out on the counter. Now the real panic started to set in.

I had no idea what I was going to do.

And I felt a time limit to figure it out. As I looked at the flowers, I could practically see them dying in the time I spent floundering.

I busied myself taking them out of their wrappers and rubber bands and quickly finding vases to hold them in. I filled 8 vases quickly with water and added all the flowers. There were more flowers than I had ever owned at one time, covering every surface of my kitchen.

Now what?

My first thought (cop out) was okay, let’s just put them in a vase. The voice in my head was screaming now. “What were you thinking? You just wasted $65 on a pipe dream. You can’t do this and are completely ignoring the fact that you don’t know how to arrange flowers!” I thought, they are all going to die before I even come up with an answer. So, I put them in a vase.

Nope. They looked awful. They needed to be mixed. The colors and textures all needed to be seen. Some of the flowers I had bought were short. They wouldn’t work in the tall vases. I would either have to completely discard those or I was going to have to make a real arrangement.

Finally, I took a massive leap of faith and found the courage to say to myself, “You can do this.”

  • I got out the rattan bunny
  • cut a piece of foam to fit
  • soaked it in water
  • took some of the shorter flowers (a bunch of kale)
  • trimmed them a bit and started sticking them in the foam.
  • Then I took the next short group of flowers and stuck these slightly above and in between the kale.

Okay, okay, and I started to breathe again.

  • Next, I took some of the taller flowers with lots of green foliage and thought, these look like a good “filler” flower. I stuck these in next.
  • Next came the wow flowers, the ranunculus. My heart rate started to return to a safe level.
  • I just kept building and adjusting until the bunny was full. Literally I couldn’t sick another flower in the foam. It had reached maximum capacity. Here is what it looked like:

flower arranging 101 | Overcoming your fears

A Mix of Fear and Exhilaration

But I still had a ton of flowers left. So, with hardly a moment’s rest (remember my flowers are dying) I realize now that the urgency I felt had nothing to do with the flowers dying. It had to do with my panic and fear that I wouldn’t be able to create something worthy. I couldn’t rest until I had disproved what I thought was possibly true. “I am unable to arrange flowers.”

So the next arrangement I did in the same manner. Quickly. Phew! As soon as I was done, I felt a calm come over me. I was relieved, but this feeling would not last.

flower arranging confidence

Flower Arranging: Success or Failure for the World to See

I immediately took Instagram video stories of my creations and shared them with all of my followers and shared my disclaimer that I was “not a professional.” I asked for people to be kind when judging my creations. As soon as I stepped back and saw the arrangements in the videos, I knew the truth. They were disasters.

Of course, everyone was extremely nice. That’s why I love IG. But my sister told me the truth. She said they needed to be cut down. The arrangements weren’t tight enough.

I was crushed. I knew she was right. What was I thinking? I went to bed that night so completely embarrassed. Not only had I failed, but I had failed for everyone to see. I had showed my true self, my true “non floral arranging self” to the world. I was defeated. My worst fears realized. Here was proof: I couldn’t arrange flowers. Ugh!

A Girl on a Mission

The next morning, I woke up early. I was on “Miracle Morning” time, and I woke up feeling that same nervous energy. But something was different. I had already failed. There was something almost liberating about it. It could only get better from here. And I knew what I had to do.

I came into the kitchen and without even making myself a cup of coffee I took apart the designs, both of them. I put the flowers lovingly into vases to wait and started creating a new arrangement. This time I knew what I had to do. I was confident and completely at ease. And I did it. I created the vision that I had imagined in the flower market. This was my first floral arrangement, and by achieving this result I had officially quieted the voice in my head that said, “I don’t know how to arrange flowers.”

I was ecstatic, having concurred my fear.

There is no greater place on earth than standing on the other side of a conquered fear looking back at it!  

I had taken something from my “I can’t do” list and moved it over to my “can do” list. I was renewed and empowered. If I can do this with flowers, what else do I want to try? Now that’s power!

Beginner flower arrangement

As the sun started to come in the windows, I snapped a few pictures. The light was dramatic. The flowers took center stage, and the voice in my head said, “I knew I could do it!”

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Beginner Flower Arranging Steps

  1.  Begin with a vision. Choose colors that will go together. Choose flowers in shapes and textures that will be interesting.
  2.  Have a container in mind so you can picture what you want to create.
  3.  Have a way to hold the flowers:  a floral foam or oasis, or other option. If you look this up there are lots of ideas like using floral tape to create a grid, or floral frogs, for example.
  4.  Don’t be afraid to cut your flowers down so that they fit together tightly (my biggest mistake)
  5. Be willing to start over.
  6. Don’t be afraid. (Or if you are, don’t let it stop you!)

For more tips on how to master the art of flower arranging, check out this article from Better Homes and Gardens.

Everyone can arrange flowers

Easy flower arranging

To Risk is to be Fully Alive

“Growing up” should not mean we stop taking risks and yet for many of us it does. We stop risking and we start building that box around ourselves, literally boxing ourselves in. And by the way, this box tends to shrink with each passing year unless you do something about it! Whether we realize it or not, as we “grow up” we start one by one taking things off our list of things we do and putting them on the list of “can’t do.” Our development becomes more and more solidified, static, or worse, in decline. Subconsciously, we stop doing things that aren’t on our narrowly defined list of “safe activities.” We stop trying new things or spending time doing things we aren’t good at. It could lead to us not looking good or embarrassment.

 What if we failed? What would people think?

Believe in Yourself

If you could, what would you take off your “I can’t do” list? Is there something you used to LOVE to do that is now on the “can’t” list? Is there something you’d wish you’d tried but felt now it was perhaps too late? I bet there is.

Read our blog post “6 Habits to Change Your Life” and follow it with the book we recommend “The Miracle Morning.” We promise, these are going to give you the tools to start living life with a renewed power, so you can stop listening to the tapes that play in your head that say “you can’t” and start making new tapes that say.

“OH YEAH? WHO SAYS I CAN’T?”

With love,

jodie & julie

life lessons from flower arranging

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Summary
Article Name
Flower Arranging 101 | Overcoming Fears
Description
Flower arranging for beginners: A story of overcoming fear of failure to arrive on the other side where empowerment and success reside!
Author
Publisher Name
The Design Twins
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  1. jewellscorner says:

    Great job, never give up! I admire you sharing! March Madness!

    • Linda h says:

      March Madness ladies!
      You’re an inspiration to me and always looking forward to your blog and IG! Luvs to you ????

  2. Glory Galbraith says:

    ????????????????????????????????????????????????????????
    March Madness

    • Kristi Galbraith Gauntlett says:

      I am going to do this!!! Thank you for your vulnerability… saying just what I would have been thinking!

      • jjdesigntwins says:

        Yeah Kristi,

        I’m so happy to hear that my experience “spoke” to you!! I always think….if I am feeling this way chances are someone else has felt this way. I like to share because it makes me feel better…like I don’t have to be perfect to have friends!! And I share in hopes that if I share it may touch someone and help someone else!

        Thanks for your kind words and your support. It means the world to Julie and I!

        With love and blessings,
        Jodie & Julie

        • Shari Hazlett says:

          I love flowers and I love to arrange them. I also remember my grandmother’s gorgeous and confident arrangements, The flower market in the city us such a great place for inpiration! Fabulous idea for March Madness!

  3. Ginger Bailey says:

    Beautiful for March Madness!

  4. Marla Schaap says:

    Thank you so much for this much needed inspirational pep talk! This year I turn 50 and as I was reading this blog I realized that, indeed, I have “boxed myself in.” ???? It didnt overnight but I’m realizing that it’s been an unconscious joy killer that has snatched joy away from me that should be mine. Thank you for this eye opener. I’m going to be more aware and diligent in “protecting myself” and just go for it and not feed the “I can’t” and instead feed the “I CAN”!!! ????????Phil. 4:13❤️ Much love to you two! ???????? March Madness!????????????

  5. Rhonda Comus says:

    I’m glad you didn’t give up because these arrangements are so beautiful. I love the photos. The lighting is splendid. These photos are magazine worthy. And the flower arrangements look like they came from a high end floral shop.
    March Madness once again.
    Rhonda

  6. Gabriela says:

    Wow! You do everything so effortlessly! The arrangement is so beautiful!! And thank you so much for the great advice on flower arrangement.

  7. Patti says:

    Oh by could I relate to being afraid to fail and “what will everyone think” you’re right! We need to keep trying and let that little voice in our head be positive rather than negative. And personally I ask God to help guide ime in the right direction. I appreciate your honesty about your fears. In the end I think you conquered those flowers! thank you for sharing….. March Maddness ???? Patti

  8. Marla Schaap says:

    Thank you so much for this much needed inspirational pep talk! While reading this blog I realized that, indeed, I have “boxed myself in.” ???? It didnt overnight but I’m realizing that it’s been an unconscious joy killer that has snatched joy away from me that should be mine. Thank you for this eye opener. I’m going to be more aware and diligent in “protecting myself” and just go for it and not feed the “I can’t” and instead feed the “I CAN”!!! ????????Phil. 4:13❤️ Much love to you two! ???????? March Madness!????????????

  9. Irene says:

    I stick to grocery store flowers, sometimes just babies breath in a small vase makes me happy. March Madness Day 13!

  10. Kimberly - @shiplap.on.the.lake says:

    Try, try, again. I agree, once you’ve already failed, you can only go up from there. Good for you for not giving up, Jodi. We can only get better if we keep trying. March Madness

  11. Jackie Schaeperklaus says:

    You did a fantastic job with your flowers. Would love to have a hand full of them. Let’s see what you come up with next time. March madness

  12. Marjie Curry says:

    Great post. Great blog by the way. I always look forward to reading it. Your photo skills are fabulous. Your writing is natural and upbeat. Who wouldn’t want to follow The Design Twins! ????????????

    Love, Marjie

  13. Phyllis says:

    Great post! Love your photos with the text. And your “never give up” mantra! Bring on the March Madness!!!

  14. Sherry Hudson says:

    This arrangement is gorgeous! Step 1: immediately put your purchased flowers in a bucket of room temp water, this is proper prep and also gives you time to think about what you want to create. I love to arrange flowers and everyone has to start at the beginning. There are so many flowers arranging videos on utube, and they are extremely helpful. I think you did an outstanding job! Your confidence will grow ????????

  15. Elizabeth says:

    This was fun to read! I usually just go out back in my yard and pull whatever inspires me for the week but it’s nice to have some tips for a real arrangement!

    • jjdesigntwins says:

      Thank you Elizabeth. And welcome to our blog. I don’t have to say “If I can do it you can do it” because this whole post was all about that. We are so glad you made it to our blog and we sincerely hope you will return often and enjoy what you read. With gratitude, Julie & Jodie

  16. April says:

    Thanks for the advice!

    March Madness!

    • jjdesigntwins says:

      Welcome to our blog, April. So glad you made it here, and perfect timing too for our March Madness. We hope you will enjoy all you find here and it will make you want to return regularly. We are just getting started. Thank you for your support and kind words. With gratitude, Julie & Jodie

  17. Denice Hicks says:

    Ranunculus are my absolute favorite flower! The photos stole my breath away. I’m thinking a trip to our local farmer’s market might be in my future : ) It is courageous to face your fears and I want to be a courageous woman! Thanks for the example and encouragement! March Madness!

  18. Andrea says:

    I love the colors you chose for your flowers! They almost give off an English cottage vibe to me. March Madness

  19. Donnamarie Larkin says:

    Morning, Love your photos with this. I think the finished product is beautiful. I agree flower arrangements should have different shapes/textures, def captures the eye then. then adding a pop of another color etc. Cant wait to try this out with some fresh flowers once we get our new home:) Thanks again for March Madness. Happy MOnday 🙂 #alwaysafan

  20. Gayla Frasier says:

    I never take flower arranging too serious…..I’m just happy when I remember to treat myself with them! Yours looks really pretty, enjoy! March Madness!!

  21. Janice says:

    What a great blog on motivating someone to try something new even though they think they can’t. March Madness

  22. LaRonda says:

    Thanks for sharing your heart! I love the quote “To risk is to be fully alive.” I needed to read that today. March Madness

  23. Marieshomeandgarden says:

    So beautiful Jodie! ???????????? I loved seeing you and Janine on the insta stories. So fun! Love your march madness ????

  24. Debbie Rosalis says:

    Loved this !!! You did a wonderful job and the flowers you chose were beautiful. ???????????????? March Madness !!

  25. Sherry says:

    Gorgeous Jodie. You did fantastic!
    Last week I made a trip to Hobby Lobby and came home with a new tin sign. Now I’m having anxiety over where to put it and what I already have to complete a grouping. ????
    Thank you, Jesus, for Command hooks. Otherwise my walls would be full of holes. LOL

  26. Beth says:

    Love your inspiration and your flower arrangements are beautiful! March madness ????

  27. Pam says:

    I love your inspirational message. it’s crazy how it’s sometimes easier to take in and believe the bad messages we hear and so hard to accept and believe the good ones.

    Even your first attempt was quite lovely. The latest try is gorgeous but I wouldn’t have sneered at the first one. I believe a simple and happy arrangement often has as much beauty as a fancy one done by a professional.

    Happy March Madness

    • jjdesigntwins says:

      Hi Pam,
      First of all, thank you for your kindness and your support. I really appreciate it! I tend to agree (about the simple arrangements) and will probably still choose to display my flowers just as is….in a simple vase. But the thrill of conquering something that previously felt undo-able was really quite exciting, especially looking back on it from the other side. And as in all things, we’re usually happier for having tried something than to always wonder, what if??
      Have a beautiful day my friend! And good luck! xoxo

      Jodie & Julie

  28. Gina says:

    Just Beautiful! March Madness ????????????????

  29. Pamela says:

    These are beautiful!!! Thank you for your encouragement as always and I am so glad you didn’t give up! I totally would have done the same thing bright and early the next morning too because I would have obsessed about making them match my vision perfectly. How often we hear that negative voice much louder than the positive voice in our heads.
    MARCH MADNESS!

  30. Dori Fiedler says:

    I love the fact that you talked about overcoming your fear for floral arrangements. I think we all have fears of certain parts of decorating and I love that you admitted and discussed it with us! Thank you!

  31. Dori Fiedler says:

    MARCH MADNESS ????

  32. Shelly fonda says:

    I love all the flower arrangements! You did great!!! I mostly just put them in vases but you’ve made me want to try an arrangement. ????????
    I will let you know how it works out for me! Ha!
    Love the March madness… I’m not giving up! Ha????

    • jjdesigntwins says:

      Shelly, You are a cutie pie! Don’t give up! That’s a big lesson in life. Sometimes the entire difference between those who succeed and those who fail is just not giving up! So…we are living life’s big lessons here…and having fun doing it! Thank you, honey, for your kind support and sweet friendship. With love and blessings, Julie & Jodie

  33. Janelle says:

    May the odds be in my favor!
    Thank you for March Madness!

    • jjdesigntwins says:

      Janelle, You are cracking me up! Exactly. And they are. thank you so much for being a big part of our support team…it means the world to us. We wish you great luck and we also hope that long after the giveaway is over you will visit our blog, say hi, and continue to be inspired. With gratitude, Julie & Jodie

  34. Dee says:

    I am so glad that you persevered! Even writing about failure and persevering and success is encouraging to everyone! I just appreciate that and wanted you to know that they finished arrangements are absolutely gorgeous!

  35. Pat Howe says:

    Great post love your beautiful flowers…..I’ve always wanted to take classed with flowers arrangements…..thanks for sharing….happy March Madness.

  36. Theresa Gilmore says:

    March Madness is one day away and you two are pure “madness” in the making! Love your blog and the positive energy that you show each and everyday! Can’t hardy wait to see to see what you talk about next!

  37. Stacey says:

    Your flower arrangements are gorgeous!! Congratulations on conquering your fears! I admire your honesty and bravery. I am learning to see failure as “not trying.” Honestly I took so long to start my decor page because of the fear of failure. But it is in the trying that we learn to succeed. Thank you for sharing and inspiring me. March Madness ????

  38. Judi James says:

    Thanks for sharing your story. It helped by giving me a push to do something that I had been procrastinating over and unaware it was for the fear of failure. I just kept saying I had more important things to do. Well this morning I’m halfway through my project! Thx.
    March Madness.

  39. Lauren says:

    Thank you for inspiring us! March madness

  40. Linda Greer says:

    Awesome post. I am a floral design dropout…..ha. I try, but even my best is nowhere as good as yours. Lovely!!
    Thanks for the tips. March Madness!

  41. Jill Stephenson says:

    Jodie and Julie,

    Good evening! Thank you for taking the time in sharing your fears with each and everyone of your followers. It is not easy to express and or show your fears. Taking the step to overcome and climbing the mountain of facing your fears is an exhilarating experience, like riding a rollercoaster persay. Overcoming and conquering your fears is astronomical feeling. Thank you for being an inspiration and kind souls to us all.

    Happy March Madness!

    ????????????????

    Jill

  42. Sarah Maney says:

    Your arrangements are beautiful, Jodie! It’s so hard to face fears, but I love the sense of accompliment and pride that comes from pushing through the “I can’t”. Thank you for the reminder! March Madness

  43. Connie Looper says:

    Oh, Jodie, this post made me cry. You are so incredibly poised and gifted; it’s hard to imagine you feeling insecure or unsure of yourself. I just love how you put yourself out there, take a risk, and how you are brave enough to share it with all of us. The way you inspire me goes beyond words. Thank you so much, sweet friend.

  44. Tanya Smith says:

    Love that you got back up and tried again, Jodi! I agree that once we “recover” from the initial failure, it’s freeing to try again because it can’t possibly get any worse! 😉 Your arrangements are breathtaking, as is your gorgeous transparency and genuine heart that beats to help other women step out of their comfort zones and tackle something that seems out of reach. And that flower market…wow. Great post. I am loving The Design Twins’ March Madness! 🙂
    Love always, Tanya @smith.and.sparrow 😉

  45. Maryellen Kawalec says:

    Beautiful arrangements! I was very hesitant about trying flower arrangements, but I may give it a shot. Thank you. March Madness!

  46. Tammy says:

    Thanks for all your inspiration! You both have a beautiful homes! March Madness

  47. Susan says:

    Your hearts are as lovely as your sweet floral arrangements! I absolutely look forward each day to reading your posts and blog! Good luck during your March Madness! XOXO

    • jjdesigntwins says:

      Susan, Aw, that makes us so very happy to hear. March Madness motivated you to leave a comment, and we are happy about that!! We hope you continue to enjoy our blog because Jodie and I are just getting started! With love & gratitude, Julie & Jodie

  48. Jackey Johnson says:

    March Madness.. I would love the Help with A room. Design .

  49. Debbie Wells says:

    Love the posts. So true in many ways. Giving up is easy but trying hard to succeed is so rewarding! Loving the March Madness. So fun!

    • jjdesigntwins says:

      Debbie, Well said! and so true! Jodie and I are actually becoming braver in the past couple of years and it feels darn good (and maybe a little overdue). But it is never to late to take life by the horns! And we intend to do just that. Blessings, Julie & Jodie

  50. Stephanie Hall says:

    This is adorable! My mom and I did the flowers for my daughters wedding last summer and it was so fun and creative. March madness

  51. Piper says:

    These are wonderful tips that I can’t wait to try and what a great life lesson! You are so right to just go for it! Loved this post like I do all of your great posts!
    March Madness!

  52. Tammy says:

    Love spring and thank you for sharing. March madness

  53. Rebekah says:

    March madness! Luv it!!

  54. Picturessay1kwords says:

    Your arrangements are beautiful! So glad you overcame your fear or better put…. You changed your tapes! Yes you can do it and you did. We all need to stop being our own worse critic and just express ourselves, be creative, be in the moment and enjoy what we are doing. From arranging flowers, to decorating, to living our lives. Live your true self and be guided by God. Be perfectly you, not someone else’s version of perfect. We are all good at different things. Not everyone can play the violin…..but with lessons and practice you can and do play the violin magnificently!! You grew better over time. There’s always flower arranging courses if you want to learn or improve your techniques. Don’t be so harsh on yourself and know we all get better over time. So keep arranging and changing your tapes! God bless and happy March Madness!!!
    Nancy

  55. This is a beautiful blog post, girls! My mom LOVED arranging flowers – both real and faux – in any vase that she could find laying around the house and she would give them away to people.. After she passed away (9 years ago), I started to pick up vases at thrift stores and arrange flowers in them and give them away to friends who were sick or women in our church who were sad or lonely. It became my little “hobby” as I remembered her. As I was reading through your blog, it came to me as to why I love to create beautiful arrangements. God bless and happy March Madness! Hugs…Lisa

  56. Barbie Elkins says:

    I have always told my two boys that “CAN’T doesn’t live in our house.” Every time I heard them say. “Mom I just can’t do it.”, they knew exactly what was going to come out of my mouth. We all have times when we doubt ourselves, and think we can’t do something. But, it is so gratifying to try something new. Even if it doesn’t come out exactly as we thought it would or should. Your flower arrangement turned out beautifully. The time and thought you put into it, made it uniquely yours. You turned your can’t into a can. Thank you for all of your beautiful and inspiring posts. Your positive attitude always shines brightly. ✨

    • jjdesigntwins says:

      Barbie, I totally love this!! The power of our thinking is the greatest power in the world. Realizing this and putting it to our good use is the trick. It sounds like you’ve got this pretty down, and I love how you used it to raise your boys. Those boys will be unstoppable. Well done! We hope you will continue to enjoy our blog…we are just getting started! With gratitude, Julie & Jodie

  57. Marilyn says:

    ranunculus are my favorite for spring! Bring on March Madness!

  58. MaKayla Pippy says:

    Happy Tuesday ????
    March Madness!!

  59. Jessica says:

    I took two years of floriculture in high school and it still terrifies me! Yours are beautiful! March madness

  60. What a great post! and you did great the second time around… I love the flower arrangement, it’s beautiful. I first had Market envy, I wanted to be transported just by reading this post to Seattle’s Market ( my brother lives in Seattle with his family & I don’t get to see them as often as I would like). Second, I wanted to be surrounded by all the beautiful flowers they sell at the Market. I LOVE that place. For me, flower arrangement comes naturally; but I was encouraged to work on my photography (which is my weakness)…what is stopping me from getting better and improving at something that I might not be the best at! great March Madness…thanks for the encouragement!

    • jjdesigntwins says:

      Melissa, We hope this post will encourage you to stick with improving your photography. Feel the motivation to improve but take away the pressure of any outcome. Just enjoy the process and have fun! Your friends, Julie & Jodie

  61. Kristine says:

    Love the Spring yellow floral arrangement…makes me think if Sunshine☀️March Madness!!

  62. Jill says:

    I think this is such a common issue for many ladies…wanting everything to be perfect. In the process of being perfect and not wanting to fail you end up anxious and draining your day of joy and happiness. I am definitely guilty of this too!! Thank you for your honesty and humility of sharing this with us. It is a good reminder that we shouldn’t put so much pressure on ourselves and just enjoy the moments of the day 🙂 By the way…what ever happened with the delivery of your new dining room table??? Last I heard it had come in and was to be delivered the following week. Please tell me there wasn’t another problem with this table too!! Hugs to you girls, keep up the great work ????

  63. Marci says:

    that centerpiece on your table is gorgeous!!! love the way it turned out!!

  64. LISABETH says:

    Just gorgeous Flowers!!
    March madness!

  65. Dawn Goddard says:

    Beautiful, inspiring story! Lovely arrangement! Great job. The only failure is to never try. March Madness ????

  66. Kathy Hicks says:

    March Madness 🙂 ♥ love all the blogs and post …….follow you both on instagram & twitter too.
    You inspire me to try new things,
    Thank you,

  67. Debbie Rosalis says:

    March Madness !! ????????????????????????????

  68. Karin says:

    Great post sometimes we need to try new things,great job March madness ???? ???? ????????????????????????????????????????????????

  69. Irene says:

    You did a wonderful job on your second attempt, I must admit I have had a few that looked like your first try. March Madness Day 14

  70. Melanie says:

    Love to table center piece! March Madness

  71. Siobhán says:

    I just subscribed and am already inspired after reading this post!

    A few years ago, I accepted my sister’s offer to visit a developing country to volunteer and to meet people with whom I thought I had nothing in common, nor could I even communicate with!

    Four years later, and I’ve been blessed to have learned the language well enough to communicate with my friends, as well as have been able to bring several others with me to meet a wonderful group of people!

    I never would have imagined the joy I now experience in having learned how big our world is, yet how we find common ground in our humanity.

    Your words of encouragement are right on target!! I look forward to following along.

    And March Madness! Yes please!!!

    • jjdesigntwins says:

      Siobhan, Welcome to our blog. Wow, what an amazing story! You have in turn inspired us by sharing. Thank you! We are sincerely thrilled to have you join us here on what we know will be an incredible journey. Howe do I know this? Because it will be what we make it. And together the sky is the limit. There are no limits except those we put on ourselves. With friendship and gratitude, Julie & Jodie

  72. Holly W says:

    Wonderful inspiration once again! Again we are looking at snow after being teased by Mother Nature thinking that spring WAS right around the corner! Thinking I need to keep thinking spring on the inside!! Happy March Madness!

  73. Patty says:

    Oh, I would love the 1 hour Instagram training!!!!! Love your IG/IG Stories too.

  74. Cathy booth says:

    So love your blogs
    Loved how you persevered with your flower arranging

    Watch your Instagram each day for inspiration and some advise
    Cool who you have a twin to confer with

    Cathy booth

    • jjdesigntwins says:

      Cathy, That means so much to us! Thank you for your sweet support. We hope you will continue to enjoy our blog as much as we enjoy writing and preparing it for you! With gratitude, your friends, Julie & Jodie

  75. Shelly fonda says:

    The bunny arrangement is still my favorite!????❤️
    Found you two on Pinterest too! Love all that you both do! I truly get the best ideas from you both! Thank you for all that you share with all of us!!!????❤️
    March madness!!!❤️❤️❤️❤️

  76. Julie Badger says:

    Excited about March Madness! I depend upon IG designers like you ladies to give me inspiration. I feel I am not creative in coming up with my own ideas, but I do well at copying others’ ideas! Thank you for the daily inspiration!

    • jjdesigntwins says:

      Julie, We are so happy you are here! Thank you for your sweet words and your kind support. It means so much to us. We hope you will try to come regularly to our blog. If you are not a seasoned decorator all the more reason. In our decorating posts we really teach the process and step by step tips how to think about decorating and how to become a confident decorator. We have the tools you need right here. Your friends, Julie & Jodie

  77. Vani says:

    Beautiful flowers and beautiful story. It’s important to always think that you can achieve anything. The key is to have a goal set in your mind and take the right action towards those goals. Every action is a step closer to the goal you want to achieve.

    • jjdesigntwins says:

      Vani, I love your wisdom. Your words are spot on! Thank you for sharing that and thank you for coming to our blog. We hope you will find lots to enjoy and inspire. Many blessings, Julie & Jodie

  78. Diane Rojano says:

    You ladies always have such inspiring stories!!! You are amazing! Keep it up please. March Madness!

    • jjdesigntwins says:

      Thank you so much Diane! You are so sweet! And don’t worry, we plan on keeping it up! In fact, we are just getting started! So much more fun and inspiration to come. We hope you will continue to join us on this adventure. With gratitude, Julie & Jodie

  79. Tracy says:

    As a seasoned florist i think you did fine
    That feeling you got at market is the one i live every day it never gets old. If the flowers made you happy then they did their job. Happy march maddness

  80. Cathy says:

    I don’t have a problem talking in fact my husband says I never stop! Ha! I am a people person. However. My ” I can’t,” is, speaking in public. That little voice has always been loud in saying,”you can’t.” It wasn’t until my son was diagnosed with brain cancer and was in Children’s Hospital for 11 months before Jesus took him hime that I realized that, “I can.” We started doing charity events for the Loma Linda Ronald McDonald House where we stayed and Loma Linda Children’s Hospital where my son was. I realized that if my voice wasn’t heard I would not accomplish my goal and the promise I made my son. I had to stop listening to that voice and listen to my heart. Like you, I won!! Your arrangements are beautiful, all of them. Your final one is gorgeous. Congrats to you!!!!
    March Madness ????

    • Sandy Belabin says:

      Cathy,

      I am a Pediatric Hem/Onc RN, I’m so sorry to hear about your son earning his angel wings at such a young age. I always say…no one knows how strong these kiddos are, they are always my heroes.

      I’m so proud of you for Reaching through your sadness and empowering yourself to get out there and use your voice for the Children’s hospital. I worked in the Peds ER at Loma Linda for a 13 week travel nurse assignment in 2016.

      May you always be Blessed with great memories and your voice!

      Sandy B

      • Cathy says:

        Thank you so much. . Those kiddos are the strongest children. They endure so much. I give you a lot of credit. I couldn’t do your job. God has a special place in Heaven waiting for you. May you always know that you are so appreciated. Have a wonderful week

  81. Wow! Jodie, I love your vulnerability.
    The fact you went to bed feeling embarrassed really resonates with me. Sometimes I post on IG stories and feel the same way. I am sooo proud of you for conquering your fear. This makes me excited to do a few things that right now I say “I can’t” to. Thank you????????

  82. Jackey Joy says:

    March madness ❤️❤️❤️❤️????????

  83. Jackey Johnson says:

    March Madness ❤️❤️❤️❤️

  84. Sandy Belabin says:

    Oh no, I don’t think my comment went through ????. But thank you for this article. I have always wanted to take a flower arrangement class. My dear friend passed away 2 years ago this month. We sent each other Flowers almost every holiday.

    I am starting tomorrow with tulips ???? bc she sent me many throughout the years. And after that, peonies…

    Thanks for your story, and thank you for the smile on my broken heart ❤️. I miss her so much.

    March madness ( pls delete this if my other one posted.)

  85. Jovita Chicki (jdguychickibabe) says:

    Loving March Madness <3
    Thank you for sharing your floral steps…this is really helpful.

  86. Diane Rojano says:

    You ladies always have such inspiring stories!!! You are amazing! Keep it up please. March Madness! It keeps saying I posted already but I didnt????

  87. Janneth Tauriello says:

    Awesome topic, March madness

  88. Rebekah says:

    Love you two!!????????march madness!

  89. Tammy Loveless says:

    Great Read! Thank You for all your inspiring stories. March Madness

  90. Kelly Benzel says:

    We are the hardest on ourselves and we let doubt creep in which then leads to a fear of failure. I love the message of it’s okay to fail and dust yourself off and try again.
    Thanks for your always kind and thoughtful words of inspiration!

  91. Sharon Pierce says:

    Great post. ❤️ March Madness ❤️

  92. Brenda Galiher @growingingracedaily says:

    Thanks for taking us along on your flower arranging 101.. you made me laugh and also think twice, I might not be good at something at first but if I keep trying I can succeed. I love flower arranging, and it is an Art. Thanks.. Happy March Madness!! ????

  93. Nadia Kirkwood says:

    Awww, I’m so happy that you were able to overcome your fear. I love flower arranging but I love getting ideas from all these other beautiful bloggers as well. One blogger that totally inspires me is Courtney French French Country Cottage. She is amazing and so talented. When I draw a blank I go to her blog. My fear was painting furniture. I would visualize all these projects I wanted to do but to scared to screw up. So I pushed myself to take a Annie Sloan chalk paint coarse. It was everything I knew but being able to have hands on with a teacher there gave me more confidence. So my first project was my bedroom furniture. I just went with it and it turned out fabulous. I had painted my kitchen cabinets prior to that so Zi wasn’t sure why I was so scared.
    Anyway, your post was great and one I can totally relate to. Good girl for trying.
    March Madness

    Nadia

  94. Michael McClure says:

    so beautiful! <3

  95. Matrixbabevintage says:

    Your result was so beautiful! Applause to you for having your vision and following through! Thank you for giving us all the ambition to “Keep Calm and Keep Going”. ????????

  96. Andrea says:

    Like the Little Engine That Could. … I think I can, I think I can! You’re an inspiration in decor and life. Thank you ladies !! March Madness ????

  97. Kayla Anderson says:

    Flowers can change the whole atmosphere of a room. Thank you for sharing your wisdom. You are a blessing! Much love, Kayla
    March Madness

  98. Alexandra says:

    Upon first glance when you posted on IG, I thought the flower arrangement had been done by a flower shop! You did a wonderful job! I can totally relate to the “flowers all over the countertop” panic. I got a little anxious just reading that part hahaha ☺️ March Madness

  99. Brooke says:

    You did a great job with the flowers. Flower arranging doesn’t have to be “perfect” or stressful. Arranged in any way flowers can be beautiful and bring happiness. Happy march madness

  100. Michelle says:

    I’m so drawn to the both of you not only because of your talent but because of the positivity that beams from your posts. It often fills my day with happiness and admiration. Keep up the good work. God bless your families and your lives!

  101. Anne H says:

    I love this post! I can knit, I can sew, I can cook but “I can’t paint (as in walls), I can’t arrange flowers, I can’t decorate and I can’t repurpose furniture!” Well guess what! I’m going to change my mindset! I CAN do all those things and will!!! Hard to believe March Madness is almost done!!

  102. Melanie says:

    Love these! Great job! March Madness

  103. Lauren says:

    They look beautiful! I don’t know what I’m doing when it comes to arranging, so I like to stick with putting a single flower in a vase. Although, I do try to branch out sometimes. ???????? march madness

  104. Janice Norris says:

    Love ❤️ Yes, flowers bring so much joy into your home. Love you didn’t give up.

    This gave me a push to make it a biweekly thing that I get flowers and arrange them in our home. So, flowers are now in the budget. March Madness. ????????????????????

  105. Holle says:

    I feel the same way about flowers. Always worried I’m going to mess it up. Maybe I will try again
    March Madness

    Holle

  106. Thanks for this blog. I learned a lot from this blog. I love flowers so much. Thanks for these tips you post for us. What a beautiful flower designs and arrangement. I hope you can teach me flower arrangements like that so that I can use it if there is an occasion in our family.

    • jjdesigntwins says:

      Hello there,
      You are so welcome! We are so glad you found this post helpful and informational. We hope you will check out more of our floral and entertaining related blog posts. Hope to hear from you again soon.
      Best,
      Jodie & Julie

  107. Brenda Johnson says:

    Jodie,
    The arrangement turned out perfect! I love the colors and flowers you chose, they all go together complimenting each other! Flowers are such a way to cheer us up, especially when the sun comes shining through and highlights them! Beautiful!

  108. Beautiful floral arrangements, Jodie! I love your color palette and flower selections! Isn’t it crazy the self-limiting beliefs we tell ourselves? I’m so happy you persevered and conquered that voice! There’s no stopping you now!!!

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