A luxury like fresh cut flowers is something often overlooked during the holidays. After all, most of us have already decorated a pine tree, organized poinsettias, and, well, decked the halls with boughs of holly. But if you're in the minority that is still looking for more Christmas-inspired flora in the home, try this elegant but straightforward floral arrangement that won't set you back more than the price of a few stocking stuffers.

Just last week we discussed how to keep holiday decorations subtle and simple. Thus, I found it fitting to show one of my favorite floral arrangements that recalls traditional arrangements like a few stems of hydrangea but updated with some pops of red in winter appropriate cranberries and apples.

The key is to begin with a simple vessel (I actually used a glass hurricane from Crate & Barrel) and let the flowers do the talking.

1. Pour in the cranberries (I used two bags but could have probably gone with a third) and fill with water.
2. Cut the hydrangeas to the right height. The cranberries will float and actually help hold the stems in place so no need to worry about cutting the stems too short.
3. Then take some wood skewers, stab some apples, and drop in the hydrangeas: instant Christmas spirit.

If you replace the water after three days this should last just over a week (the cranberries and apples will last longer so you can continue to just replace the hydrangeas).

The best part about clean and subtle arrangements is their ability to transition throughout the year. Try replacing the cranberries and apples with lemons and tangerines and you have a perfect summer arrangement.

Images: Timothy Ragan