Beyond the Bouquet: Creative Mother's Day Flower Ideas

Here, a single flower proves as captivating as a full bouquet. Choose a spiky stem and a slender vase in a coordinating shade for a striking visual effect.

Give a classic bouquet an instant upgrade by wrapping it in style. A colorful cone-shaped wrapper protects against thorns and drips, while a paper corset adds a cheeky, unexpected touch. For a simple swap with big impact, try snipping scalloped edges in white parchment paper, as shown at left.

Boost the height and visual drama of a Mother's Day arrangement with the help of a pretty serving bowl. Set a vase inside the bowl, then fill both vessels with billowing flowers. Spring lilacs are festive without being cheesy.

For a filler that's high on quirky charm, fill a vase with buttons to hold the blooms upright. You could also substitute shells, craft glitter, or even candy -- go crazy!

The gaden may now be burgeoning, but you can still BYOBlooms! Create an easy outdoor centerpiece using a basic white platter and Mom's favorite buds. Float the flowers in small bowls, and arrange them with votive candles for a modern look.

You don't need to have a sensitive sniffer to enjoy these dainty blossoms, but they sure make a lovely alternative for those who do! Decorate Mom's favorite room with a shabby-chic display. Even better: these blooms will last all year.

She won't have to toil over these flowers, but their makeshift vase can still pay homage to her green thumb. A humble watering can takes on new life when filled with fresh cuttings, and the final product boasts an undeniable rustic charm.

Raise a glass to Mom with this unique but tasteful display. Violet Muscari latifolium and tight blooms of Ranunculus get a boost in a lush, dense compote arrangement.

When done right, flowers can be cool instead of cutesy. The former is achieved with this arrangement of lush hosta leaves and lavender hydrangeas, fitted into a tree-trunk-inspired vase.

She may not be able to get on board with dip-dyed hair, but she'll love a touch of ombre in her flowers. Stems of blue-violet larkspur and delphinium form an arrangement that's at once subtle and opulent.

Mom's hippie days may be behind her, but we bet she still has an inner flower child. Mingle dainty Spanish bluebells with chive blossoms and lamb's ears to create an arrangement rife with texture and visual interest.