DIY Project: Turn carnations into peonies

Oh beautiful peonies! These gorgeous flowers are definately one of my favourites, but you will only find them in the late spring or early summer and the blooms only last for about a week! How can such a pretty flower last only a week?! If you love this flower as much as I do and want to see it in your late summer or fall wedding, I have the solution for you!
The English Rose will often be your florist's recommendation as peonies become less available. But if you are looking for a budget-friendly solution, carnations can also pass for peonies in a wedding bouquet or in a simple vase for a quick and pretty decoration at home. Here's the full tutorial to turn your inexpensive carnations into fuller looking flowers that ressemble the coveted peonies.

Things you will need:

1. Mini or full size carnations
2. Scissors

STEPS:

1. Right above the stem, you will find the green part that holds together the petals. Flip the upper green leaves. You will see they are quite sturdy and easy to flip back.
2. Cut the the green leaves.
3. Now that the leaves have been removed, it is easy to spread the flower open. Delicately, fluff the flower until it reaches the desired diameter. Lightly pull petals apart for a fuller look.

Voilà!
Beautiful peony-looking flowers on a budget for your home or for all year round weddings!