To think a few short weeks ago, we were just beginning to revel at the sights, scents and warmth of Summer. And now August is quickly approaching and making its carefree, hot and sultry mark. But let’s go back to those sweet days of June when Peonies of all varieties, were at their peak, bloom after bloom, filling the winds with their subtle floral fragrance, too perfect and delicate, something only Mother Nature could create and bless us with…..
From pure white ruffles of The Duchesse, to dainty blushes found in the Sarah and Festiva, to the vibrant fuchsias of Peter Brand Peonies, it’s almost impossible to resist these stunners, especially when they last such little time. And this year, our peony bushes were a sight and gift to the garden. During the short, but spectacular short weeks, the three different variety of Peony bushes began blooming, they filled me with so much joy! Filling every room, every nook and cranny with their imperfect beauty. Blooms were generously given to neighbors, family, friends and clients – whoever wanted to stop by the garden was always greeted with a handful and bounty of these pretty and fragrant Peonies.
Peonies are often used in formal arrangements, tucked in here and there, or displayed on their way, their lushness always making a grand statement. They are a favorite of classic brides when grouped together in bouquets, always giving off a “je ne sais quoi” touch of sophistication, often feeling unattainable to most. But in truth I find nothing formal or prim and proper perfect about Peonies. In fact, if you truly take a look, a very close look at each flower you’ll notice not one will bloom like the other. Some open up to their signature ruffle grandeur, as if it is a bunched lace doily, while others’ petals open and twist however which way they please.
I’ve always been fascinated with Peonies, how wild and carefree they are. How their imperfection is what makes them inexplicably beautiful and loved by all. Which is why when I see them arranged in constraint centerpieces, unable for them to twist and turn and bloom however which way they desire, it breaks my heart just a little. Those who grow peonies know very well that you’re not always going to get perfect long stemmed Peonies to fit in all your vases, that is actually a rare occurrence. Most times a Peony ready to be picked shares the same stem as a tight bud only now just beginning to see the late Spring sun. So peonies when harvested come in all sizes, and the best kind of arrangements are the ones you allow these beauties to simply do what they want!
Tiny floral gems in bud vases or small bottles, medium stems in mason jars and the few long stems in proper tall vases. And if you happen to run out of all of these, like I did, then glass food storage containers work wonders too!! Whatever and wherever you display Peonies, they are sure to be nothing short of gorgeous.
But this effortless Peony centerpiece is my favorite. It allows each flower to continue to bloom and grace us with their beauty however they please, not however we decide to constrain it. That is the beauty of Mother Nature. We must nurture it, care for it, give it love and attention, maybe even a few heartfelt melodies from our soul. In turn, it will give us plenty to love and gaze at and cherish, yet we must continue to embrace and allow it to be the free power that it is; even once we’ve harvested and taken advantage of the “fruits” it bears for us.
Peonies.
They promise good fortune.
Watch them grow from small buds into strong, magnificent blooms and
you’ll see why Peonies beautifully symbolize – honor, romance and
Beauty in all forms
My fascination for Peonies is the reason why I’ve given so much endearing love and care to the peonies we grow. That fascination is also the reason that for several years I’ve been taking endless photographs of these beautiful blooms, knowing very well that one day I would hope to curate a photography collection of the very Peonies my family grows. And after five years, I’ve finally chosen my absolute favorites {although it was a challenge} to create this very special “Peony Garden” photography collection on Society6.
My main intention was, nor is it still, to make a profit, but more to share the wild beauty of Peonies with others. To help others appreciate their intricate details and beauty of which I love so much.
Scroll though to see my favorites from the collection below, and see the entire collection here…..
Peony “Festiva” || The Duchesse
The Duchesse II || Peony “Sarah”
Peony “Peter Brand” || Peony “Peter Brand II”
Peony “Sarah III” || Peony “Sarah IV”
I envision a gallery wall in an office, baby room, sun room or really just about anywhere! But I will say it may be hard to just pick one, I dare you. Each bloom is a spectacular beauty you can lose yourself gazing upon. And if you haven’t noticed, the “Sarah” Peony happens to be the most photogenic. it’s always doing something unique and lovely for the camera to capture!
I hope you’ve grown to love Peonies a bit more and appreciate their natural carefree and wild beauty. An oh so sweet gift from Mother Nature!
Leave a Reply