Last updated 17:19, Friday, 03 October 2008

You’ve got the starter, main course and a to-die-for dessert. You’ve borrowed real crystal glasses and the wine is chilling. But if your dinner party is all about impact, whether it is friends or the in-laws you want to show off to, a table centrepiece can be the icing on the cake.

Derek Armstrong with his centrepiece

• Slideshow: how to make the perfect centrepiece

In-demand Carlisle florist, Derek Armstrong of Bloomsberry on Bank Street, shows ME readers how to create an easy autumnal centrepiece.

You’ve got the starter, main and a to-die-for dessert sorted. But for ultimate dinner-party impact, you can’t fail to impress with a table centrepiece. Carlisle florist, Derek Armstrong of Bloomsberry on Bank Street, took time out of his busy schedule to reveal the secrets behind creating an easy autumnal centrepiece.

The first step is to find yourself a small wooden trough or container to hold your piece. Derek used a pretty wooden bucket to provide the base.

Next, find a piece of circular oasis to fit nicely into the base.

Derek said: “It needs to be ready soaked. It needs a couple of minutes in water and let it take its own water weight, don’t force it down.”

The next step is to select sprays of seasonal flowers and foliage.

To give that autumnal feel, Derek also selected two mini coconuts and a sprig of russet berries to provide contrast and colour depth.

“For this piece I took four stems of gerbera, one chrysanthemum, five roses, three carnations, some ivy, a couple of aspidistra leaves and a small piece of salal.

“It’s very seasonal with the berries and the colours.The addition of the lime green candle gives it a bit of a zing.”

The colours of the flowers were complimentary shades of orange, peach and cream.

“Autumn needs darker colours – it’s a step away from the brighter blues and pinks of summer. And stick to shades that compliment each other,” said Derek.

Once your stems are assembled, start to form the centrepiece.

“Get the candle in first to stabilise it, then build your arrangement up.

“Cover the foam with the foliage then place the flowers in groups because it’s more dramatic. Work in blocks all the way around the foam.”

Work to get the width of the centrepiece at its base then build up towards the candle. Place the mini coconuts in amongst the foliage and any protruding leaves can be tucked into the arrangement. And there you have it.

To save time or if you just don’t do green fingers, Derek and his team can make up centrepieces to order. Call 01228 526733 or pop along to the shop.