The traditional garden urn and arrangement are the ideal complement to the antique English sideboard. The bright color mix—various hues of peonies, garden roses, French tulips, lilacs, and viburnum—is one of Sybil’s “happy favorites” and makes it English garden glam. Photo by Monica Buck
Sybil includes all family members in the wedding; some are more willing participants than others! This precious pup, Ollie, got a canine treat for his troubles, posing for a photo that is a prized part of this family’s wedding memory. Photo by A. Bryan Johnson
This faux bois container holds a Victorian tussie-mussie. In the language of flowers, this bouquet symbolizes love, celebration, and endurance. Photo by Monica Buck
The writing here is as delightful as the imagery, betraying Sylvester’s genuine affection for her craft. Flowers prepped in buckets lined up against a wall look like “bridesmaids about to start down the aisle,” she writes. A feminine arrangement of aubergine and green spiked with a bit of attitude is called “Lady on a Piano.”
— Sybil Sylvester
Above all, the book is a source of inspiration. Spread after spread of Sybil’s designs, organized by season and occasion, will send even the most florally frightened reader outside into the garden with a pair of clippers. Each arrangement—whether massive or diminutive, meant for a cathedral chancel or a cottage nook—has been thoroughly “Sybilized,” given that magical mix of elegance and whimsy, showcasing a joyful interplay between friends.
By Kirk Reed Forrester
Fresh: Fresh Flowers… Fresh Arrangements… Fresh Ideas… by Sybil Brooke Sylvester (Glitterati, 2017)
Floral designer Sybil Sylvester crafts an abundant arrangement that is easy on the eyes and beckons to be touched in Arranging with Texture.
