The most appealing flower arrangements are ones that look natural, unfussy, a little uneven—as though you just walked in from the garden and an armful of freshly gathered branches and blossoms then casually plunked them into a vase. I never use tape, wire or florist foam—it’s too much work.

For me, that process starts with a visit to my local flower shop on Île Saint-Louis, where Carole, my enchanting local fleuriste, has for the last 40 years been serving up bundles of cheerful blooms and meticulously styled bouquets. I became a regular after moving to the island and make it a point to get there weekly—because the scent of a bloom creates joy, comfort and optimism.

I love the fragrance of flowers when I walk in a room, so lilies in just about any color or variety land on my mantle en masse in a vintage trophy purchased at the Paris Flea Market.

Use what you have on hand; sometimes the most unusual containers make a great vase.

Silver pitchers or julep cups with a patina are my favorite, and are perfect for flowers bedside, on a bathroom vanity, kitchen counter or anywhere else you need a little happy.

Always remember to cut stems at an angle and place them in cool water, lukewarm water if you want closed buds to open more quickly. Woody or thick branches (like magnolia branches or hydrangea stems), need their ends crushed so they’ll absorb more water. Place the flowers out of direct sunlight and freshen the water every few days to make them last.

For more inspiration and to connect
with David, follow him on Instagram @davidjimenezstudio