Over the weekend I paid a visit to John Derian's mini empire in the East Village on Second Street. Occupying three charming time-worn store fronts, each shop holds its own distinct array of finds-- from tabletop and decoupage to dry goods, bedding and furniture. Despite this growing presence, Derian's ethos and eye have remained the same, steadfastly bringing the most charming rustic and unique artisans and makers collections into his mix. One such crafter is floral artist Livia Cetti of The Green Vase, whose divine paper flowers were recently celebrated in her book, The Exquisite Book of Paper Flowers. Well-known in editor circles for her mastery of flowers real and paper, her realistic facsimiles are truly astounding. If you have a green thumb or a penchant for paper, explore her book, which takes you through the process of creating tissue and crepe paper flowers, step-by-step. I met Cetti and saw a fresh crop of her blooms last year at the Martha Stewart American Made Market, where select vendors displayed their creations at Grand Central-- it was like being in a field of flowers in her booth. The flowers are just so life-like and so beautiful, and they last much longer than the real thing. Just take a look at her crepe paper creations and see what I mean. 

An antique urn filled with a multi-colored array of handmade blooms at John Derian

Another charmer sits before a wall of eclectic Hugo Guiness prints making a perfect pairing. 

Potted paper Hollyhocks and Dahlias so joyous and colorful

Individual anemone stems packed with care

An individual Peony from @TheGreenVase on Instagram