NEW YORK’s FLOWER DISTRICT is a working supply neighborhood. On West 28th Street, the interesting decisions begin with what is available that day. The Historic Floral District directory is a useful orientation to its wholesalers. Check individual shops before visiting; trade requirements and public access vary.
Choose the vessels first
Count your vases and measure the table. A few low arrangements leave space for shared dishes and allow people to see each other. Take a photograph of the vessels with you. It is easier to buy a sensible quantity when you know where the stems are going.
Choose one main flower and something with a different shape or texture. Staying within a small palette lets you respond to what looks good without trying to recreate a photograph stem for stem. Leave room to change your mind.
Buy with the day in mind
Associated Cut Flower, at 131 West 28th Street, supplies flowers, greens and branches to florists, designers and related trades. Ask your florist or the supplier about access, quantities and what will open in time for your dinner.
Plan the trip back before you buy. Flowers need somewhere upright to travel, vessels for water and space to be prepared. Do the trimming and arranging away from food preparation. Check the arrangements at seated eye level, then remove anything that makes it hard to talk across the table.
The useful restraint is to stop while there is still room for dinner.