I have long been fascinated by ikebana arrangements but have only recently taken the time to learn more about the Japanese art form of flower arranging and experiment with it on my own.

Rooted in simplicity, balance, and intention, ikebana invites us to slow down and notice the beauty in every stem, curve, and empty space.

Unlike traditional Western arrangements that often emphasize fullness and abundance, ikebana is about restraint. It’s not about how many flowers you use, but how thoughtfully you place them. Each element has a purpose.

At its heart, ikebana is a practice of harmony—between nature and the arranger, between movement and stillness. Arrangements often reflect three main elements: heaven, earth, and humanity, represented through varying stem heights and positions. But don’t let that intimidate you—this is an art form that welcomes interpretation and personal expression.

If you’re curious about trying ikebana yourself, here are a few simple tips to get you started.

Choose a low-profile vessel. You’ll often see ikebana arrangements in a shallow bowl. To keep it inexpensive, consider using simple white cereal bowl or dip bowls (that’s what I’ve done in this photo). You’ll also want a pin frog, which is a type of floral arranging tool in which a round disc is covered with small spikes to keep the flowers in place. You can find a variety of types on Amazon. I have a few metal ones but I like the plastic ones that have suction cups on the bottom.

Next, Choose just a few stems—perhaps a branch, a bloom, and a piece of greenery. Let each one shine. In Ikebana, less is more.

Consider line and shape. Notice how a stem naturally bends or reaches. Follow its lead instead of forcing symmetry.

Embrace negative space. The “empty” areas are just as important as the flowers themselves. They create breathing room and quiet elegance. This was probably the hardest thing for me. It’s practiced editing, knowing when to remove stems to create more space. Just as I sometimes have to edit my tablescapes and remove items that don’t work so that every detail seems intentional, you have to edit your arrangement so that each stem or branch is intentional.

So how can you incorporate ikebana into your tablescapes? Ikebana arrangements are perfect for dining tables because you can create a statement without blocking sightlines or hindering conversation. Use branches, blooms, or foliage that reflect the time of year for seasonal storytelling, perfect for various special holidays and occasions.

I’ll be covering more about Ikebana in the future, as I learn and practice more, but I love this beautiful art form. Ikebana reminds us that beauty doesn’t need to be elaborate to be impactful. Sometimes, the simplest arrangements speak the loudest—inviting us to pause, breathe, and appreciate the art of less.