Deconstruct one of Matthew’s bouquets, and you can see how he selects flowers of different shades and textures to work together. In the spring, there is a wealth of blooms to choose from, so the picking is easy.

Purple Passion: A full range of purple hues is represented in the grape hyacinth, violas, purple stock, and lavender caspia of this arrangement. Working for balance, Matthew paired fragile violas with sturdy grape hyacinth, wispy caspia with the broad stock.

Loving Cup: Matthew chose two substantial flowers, the hyacinth and the tulip, to set up the basic structure of the arrangement. Two lightweight varieties, the seeded eucalyptus and the tiny wax flower, as well as the ruffly lisianthus contribute airiness to the composition.

Pocketful of Posies: Keeping scents in check is important in small bouquets. Too many powerful fragrances will meld into an unpleasant mishmash. In this arrangement, the strongly aromatic freesia is given center stage, with the subtle smells of tulips, lisianthus, lady’s mantel, and phlox playing supporting roles.