Here, she created a gorgeous display with protea, artichokes, Japanese maple leaves, sweet William, hypericum, delphinium, gerbera, roses, sea holly, bupleurum, and leucadendron. She also loves texture. “If you want interest in your design, incorporate at least five different greens or nonflower elements, such as ferns, acorns, and leaves of various colors and sizes,” she says. “Don’t be afraid to use bold and bright colors in the fall—rich burgundies, fiery oranges, reds, and yellows.” Dahlias are also her favorite, available in many colors, sizes, and varieties. And she just added a cutting garden this year, complete with hundreds of dahlias, lilies, peonies, and herbs to choose from.

“Keep it simple and chic and you will never go wrong,” she advises. “Do what your budget allows. However, do it really well."