June 22, 2023
June gloom or June bloom? Let’s go with the latter. What I’ve learned is that fresh wildflowers have a remarkable ability to infuse life, joy, and warmth into any space. Whether it’s an elegant dinner party or a simple family gathering around the table, the presence of vibrant blooms can create a magical ambiance. In our beloved Santa Barbara, the month of June welcomes a profusion of wildflowers, offering an abundance of opportunities to style your home with nature’s artwork or admire it from afar.
Buttercups
One of my absolute favorites is the yellow buttercup. These cheerful blooms bring an exuberant and lively touch to any room. When styling them around your home, try using creative containers that complement their vibrancy. Try Gran’s rustic pitcher or a vintage mason jar for a unique vase, while bringing some life to older pieces. Or place them on a windowsill, so their sunny disposition radiates throughout the space. Without a doubt, their bright, yellow hue will instantly uplift the mood and add a touch of nature’s brilliance to your interiors, and surely you can never go wrong with these delicate beauties.
Poppies
Central California’s poppies are iconic to the region and are known for their vibrant orange petals. I’m sure a quick drive down the 101 and you’ll spot these beauties without a doubt! Their lively hue tends to evoke a sense of joy and energy, creating a lively atmosphere wherever they are displayed. Style them in a tall, slender vase to accentuate their graceful stems and showcase their delicate yet vibrant beauty. Placing them on a console table or a mantelpiece allows their presence to become an immediate focal point, infusing your space with a captivating charm. And of course, they’re always a reminder of our incredible state’s natural beauty stretching all the way up the coast.
Purple Lupines
Purple lupines are a sight to behold, adding a touch of elegance and serenity to the backdrop of the Santa Ynez mountains. If you are lucky enough to come across these enchanting blooms, pick them oh so carefully and make sure to leave some for others to enjoy. If you decide to pick a few bundle them together and hang them upside down in a dark, well-ventilated area to dry. Dried lupines make exquisite decor pieces and can be styled in various ways. Then, consider placing them in a tall, clear vase to showcase their delicate structure or create a rustic arrangement by pairing them with dried grasses and twigs. Their captivating purple hues bring a sense of tranquility and sophistication to any room, that will leave you staring at them in awe for days!
Fresh flowers are a must, and you can’t always guarantee the quality of store-bought ones. So I opt for a few fresh ones, and they almost always do the trick! Picking these beautiful blooms during a hike or a leisurely stroll through the countryside allows you to connect with nature and bring a piece of the outdoors inside, maybe even creating some cherished memories. From the cheery yellow buttercups to the vibrant orange poppies and the calming purple lupines, each wildflower has its unique charm and character. By styling them thoughtfully, you can transform your space into a haven of warmth, beauty, and natural elegance. Let the magic of wildflowers enliven your surroundings and remind you of the joys found in the simplest of nature’s gifts. And if all else fails, head down to the Santa Barbara farmer’s market to pick up some pre-bundled bouquets by some of our local flower farmers!
