Roundup: Bud Vases
Good day, design friends! Peggi here. I hope February is treating you kindly. Today I’m sharing a roundup of the small but mighty styling gem- bud vases. If you’re picturing those plain glass cylinders with a single, sad rosebud, hold on! While that’s certainly where the name originates, I’m here to report that these tiny vessels have evolved beautifully. Available in a wide variety of shapes, styles and materials, they just scream versatility. When you don’t have the space, budget or bandwidth for a full-scale flower arrangement, a bud vase could be your answer. Click through to see my hefty roundup of these diminutive lovelies and read more about why I’m smitten.
Make no mistake, this girl adores enormous, statement-making floral extravaganzas. (cough-entire Pinterest board) Sadly, my everyday life rarely calls for them. Our modest home does, however, boast numerous spots perfect for a bit of botanical cheer. My nightstand is a particular favorite. What’s sweeter than gazing into a single perfect peony or a lovely sprig of lilacs when you first open your eyes? Sarah agrees. Don’t forget a petite floral welcome in the guest room, too! Another choice perch for a bud vase- the accent table. Even my smallest surface can accommodate a drink, a bowl of snacks and a wee pot of fragrant miniature roses. Relax in style, I say.
If you limit your bud vase placement to tabletops though, you’re missing out! Their compact size allows them purchase on the narrowest of real estate. A couple of pretty blooms on the bathroom sink makes hand washing feel fancy. Add instant charm and pleasing aroma with a few herb clippings on the kitchen window sill. Any other old home owners out there with a telephone ledge? Mine perfectly showcases a pint-sized bouquet.
Once you start looking around, I bet you’ll be surprised at all the spaces begging for bud vases! Are you ready to see the delightful examples I found?
Click right on the objects to be redirected to the source, or use the numbered links below to shop my finds… not all are clickable.
01: black and white stoneware vase // 02: bubble pot 03: ribbed marble tumbler // 04: slender nickel vase // 05: striped ceramic vase // 06: pewter art nouveau vase // 07: ceramic flower frog vase // 08: ribbed porcelain vase // 09: sandblasted green & white glass vase //10: gold pottery vase // 11: glazed terra cotta vase // 12: slender brass vase // 13: pewter vase // 14: etched pottery vase //15: deep green porcelain vase // 16: faceted crystal bud vase // 17: wedgwood vase and saucer // 18: silver wire cachepot // 19: stoneware bud vase // 20: curvy brass vase // 21: green art deco vase // 22: antiqued metal vase //23: italian pedestal vases // 24: beige ceramic vase // 25: textured pot
So many, right? Narrowing my choices is always a struggle, so I used several parameters. Every pick is under seven inches tall and mostly in neutral shades. Although I love color, I prefer to let the plants be the star. I look for interesting shapes and textures instead. Black, white, stoneware, metals and crystal also allow you to easily use these vessels in any room. Now, for my favorites. You can’t beat the curves, patina and price of #20; that would work anywhere! I also dig the shape and simple etching on #13. My top pick is #6. It’s quite a splurge, but my Scottish heart would swoon for a little representation! I wouldn’t be mad to receive #3, #10, or #18…also #5 or #17. Are any of them calling your name?
While you can certainly find extravagant pieces, bud vases are generally easy on the wallet. I have thrifted beautiful stoneware and cloisonné examples for three dollars or less. Also, keep in mind vintage juice glasses, porcelain creamers or crystal barware. Anything that can hold water can probably support a stem or two. That’s another economical aspect of these small wonders; they’re a bargain to fill! One grocery store bouquet can stock half a dozen bud vases. Better yet, try my preferred trick and forage your yard. Many landscape plants yield buds that shine in Lilliputian displays. (Think lily of the valley, coral bells, thyme, chives and lavender.) Even in dreary February, my cedar branches sport glowing chartreuse tips. Don’t sleep on colorful foliage.
The best feature of bud vase styling? No fuss! Zero floral foam, glass marbles or tape required. You don’t need to stress about different flower varieties, fillers or my personal nemesis…cutting the stems too short. Topping off the water or changing it completely is a breeze. (The messes I have made with large arrangements!) Honestly, I’d be hard-pressed to think of a simpler task that brings as much joy. Who couldn’t use more of that?
Well? Are you a member of the Bud Vase Appreciation Society? Or have I convinced you to join? Ha. Do you also enjoy encountering these little floral moments around your house? Anyone else antsy for spring?! What other tricks do you have for adding life to your space at this time of year? Tell me all about them in the comments! Until next time, friends.
