As the awareness of sustainability grows, the usage of sustainable mechanics has become more prevalent in the floral industry. As floral designers adopt reusable and low waste design methods, having access to the right containers is of the highest importance. That’s where sustainable floral design educator Sue McLeary comes in – here are her thoughts on the top compote design features to help you and your arrangements shine.

This season, our Product Development Team collaborated with renowned floral artist and instructor, Sue McLeary, aka Passionflower Sue, on a new collection of compotes. Combining high style with intentional sustainable design features, these expertly designed compotes meet the needs of customers who were craving new, stylish options allowing them to address their unique design needs with ease.

Let’s get into it!

What is a compote?

A circular shape and footed stem are a compote, or compote bowl’s, two most defining elements. Thanks to its unique shape, compotes are a popular choice for wedding and event decor. Floral designers often utilize compotes to create artful low centerpieces that won’t hinder conversations and mingling – ideal for special event decor. In addition to perfectly displaying flowers, compotes are commonly used for food and decorative accent displays.

What is sustainable floristry?

Sustainable floral design is a growing movement that invites people to challenge conventional methods and make choices that lessen their negative impact on the earth and its inhabitants. It is a multifaceted movement with many different considerations. With respect to design, attention to waste reduction, rejection of single use plastics, reusing mechanics and supplies, and responsible recycling and composting of green waste are all front of mind. Conventional floral design mechanics and methods are being questioned and more florists are embracing gentler design solutions. For years, the floral industry has leaned heavily on single-use design mediums to reliably and efficiently create their work. Now, that waste heavy solution is being set aside in favor of new innovations and classic mechanics such as chicken wire, tape grids, natural armatures and pin frogs.

Sue McLeary Expert POV on sustainable design features:

The FEATURE: Open Foot || The BENEFIT: Design Flexibility & Hydration

Compotes featuring a hollow foot allow more depth and space for designers to create artful, sprawling arrangements. The hollow foot is also perfect for anchoring large natural elements and is the ideal spot to nestle a flower frog. The new, beautiful Cassio Compote features an open foot and is available in two sizes. If you’re a long-time fan of the Orion Compote, the Cassio is its stylish cousin. The tried-and-true Elijah Compote also has an open foot.

The FEATURE: Deep Bowls || The BENEFIT: Design Flexibility & Concealed Mechanics 

Deeper compote bowls are striking and super functional. Added depth accommodates large amounts of water, helping keep flowers hydrated longer. Additionally, sustainable mechanics like chicken wire and natural armatures are well-supported and hidden from view. The new Harlow Footed Bowl has tons of depth and, bonus, fits beautifully within the long-loved Harlow Stand making large elevated arrangements possible.

The FEATURE: Rolled Lip || The BENEFIT: Design Security   

A subtle yet cool design feature in the new Capricorn and Cassio Compotes is the rolled lip. This thoughtful touch keeps water from sloshing during transport or event setup to a minimum. Additionally, the lip helps keep mechanics snugly in place. A secure arrangement is a successful arrangement!

The FEATURE: Unique Shapes and Finishes || The BENEFIT: Design Flexibility & Concealed Mechanics 

Access to compotes in a variety of shapes and materials is important for all designers looking to flex their artistry. The Isabella Compote has a marbleized opal finish while the Kuta Bowl, made from terracotta, offers an unexpected textured finish. Both are ideal for eco-friendly design thanks to ample depth. Access to a variety of eco-free friendly containers with varied color, shape and height is always a good look!

For more creative inspiration, discover the full assortment of Accent Decor’s wholesale decor, including all new and home, plant and flower products, at accentdecor.com. View more about Sue McLeary and shop her staples. 

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