CHICAGO _ Heidi Joynt and Molly Kobelt, local flower farmers and floral designers, aren't afraid of the fall fade: "Just as we embrace spring for the newness it brings to all things growing," says Joynt, "we also embrace the fall as the flowers are slowly drained of the saturated tones and become more muted. The decay and detritus becomes inspiration and we give the spotlight to wilder textures." The duo plans to ride out this fall in their newly opened retail shop, where blooms share space with design classes and a few hand-picked goodies. Look for pieces including a design collaboration with local ceramic artist Angela Venarchik _ we couldn't resist the ingenious Convertible Vase, which transforms to perfectly fit a lush bouquet or those last few spindly stems.
Like their flowers, Joynt and Kobelt's bricks-and-mortar shop will hibernate come winter. Until then, Joynt names their picks for fall bouquets with season-changing style.
Dahlias: "In myriad colors and sizes, dahlias are the crown jewels of fall bouquets. As a focal flower, their petals can be compact and geometric or lush and unfurling." Fall's sunset fade is perfectly on display as dahlias transition through cooler weather.
Amaranth: "The more upright varieties of 'Hot Biscuits' and 'Velvet Curtains' are the varieties we really enjoy working with. Their texture and muted tones pair really well with a dark sunflower or handful of dahlias."
Grasses: "A favorite grass which can often be found in landscapes is Chinese silver brass. It starts out with reddish tones and as the fall goes on, it opens up as fluffy, fountainlike plumes create textural accents in bouquets."
