Welcoming the Summer Solstice: Sketches, Sunlight & Pressed Flowers
SOAKING UP THE LIGHT
As the summer solstice approaches, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement and wonder. The extra hours of daylight, the warmth of the sun, and the vibrant blooms bursting forth in nature, it’s a time of year that fills me with gratitude. I like to pause and honour this shift in seasons in my own quiet way, often by immersing myself in creative pursuits that allow me to soak up the light and celebrate the beauty all around.
This blog post is a reflection of that, a mix of creativity, nature, and heartfelt musings as I welcome the summer solstice. Whether you’re drawn to pressed flower art, floral-inspired sketches, or simply the joy of slowing down to appreciate the season, I hope you’ll find something here that speaks to you.
SKETCHES INSPIRED BY THE SUNSHINE
As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, my sketchbook seems to fill up faster than ever. There’s just something about this time of year that sparks my creativity and has me constantly reaching for my pencils and paints. I find myself drawn to the vibrant hues of summer blooms, the intricate patterns of leaves, and the way the light dances across the landscape.
Just the other day, I was sitting outside, soaking up the warmth, when a cluster of wildflowers caught my eye. The way the petals seemed to glow in the afternoon sun was simply mesmerising, and before I knew it, I had a new page filled with sketches capturing the essence of those moments. I love how the process of drawing and painting allows me to really see the world around me, to notice the little details that might otherwise go unnoticed.
HOW I’M HONOURING THE SEASON’S SHIFT
As much as I enjoy the creative spark this time of year brings, I also find so much joy in the simple, grounding rituals that help me feel connected to nature. One of my favourite things to do is venture out to gather fresh blooms, petals, and leaves to press and preserve. There’s something deeply calming about carefully arranging these delicate treasures, knowing I’ll be able to enjoy their beauty for years to come.
This summer solstice, I’m also lighting a special candle and setting some gentle intentions for the season ahead. Taking a moment to pause, reflect, and feel grateful for the abundance of summer helps me stay present and in tune with the rhythms of nature. And yes, there’ll definitely be a summer-inspired playlist on in the background, filling the air with sounds that feel like sunshine.
If you’re looking for a way to mark this special time of year, I’d encourage you to find a ritual or creative pursuit that feels right for you. Maybe you’ll press some of your own flowers, or even create a bespoke pressed flower frame for your home. Whatever you choose, I hope it brings you a sense of joy and connection to the season.
SUMMER FLOWERS I’M PRESSING RIGHT NOW
One of my favourite parts of summer is gathering and pressing flowers. Right now, I’m especially in love with the vibrant blooms of the season, from the delicate petals of peonies to the bold, golden hues of sunflowers. There’s something magical about the way these flowers seem to hold the spirit of summer.
Pressing flowers is such a lovely way to preserve their natural beauty, and it gives me a chance to slow down and really take in each bloom. Whether I’m arranging a bouquet or placing individual petals into a frame, I’m always reminded of just how special these fleeting moments are.
If you’re thinking of pressing your own flowers this summer, try starting with some of the sturdier ones like marigolds, zinnias, or sunflowers. You can place them between the pages of a heavy book or use a flower press, and just check in now and then to make sure they’re drying evenly. With a bit of patience, you’ll have your own pressed flower keepsakes to enjoy long after summer fades.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
As I sit here surrounded by the vibrant colours and lush greenery of summer, I feel such a deep sense of gratitude. This time of year always feels like a celebration, a reminder to slow down, soak up the sunshine, and really notice the beauty that’s all around.
Whether it’s the way the light filters through the leaves, the breeze carrying the scent of blooms, or the birdsong in the distance, summer fills my heart. It’s a season of growth, of abundance, of connection. A time to pause, reflect, and appreciate the simple things that make life feel rich and full.
If you’re hoping to honour this change in season, I’d gently encourage you to find your own little ritual. Maybe it’s a walk through your favourite garden, pressing a few flowers, or journalling under the stars. Whatever it is, I hope it brings you peace and presence.
And if you'd like to preserve flowers from your own special moments, be it a wedding, a birthday, or simply a bloom that made you smile, I’d be honoured to help. At Earth Tone, I offer a range of pressed flower frames, paintings, and nature-inspired pieces, each one handmade with care and intention.
CARRYING SUMMER WITH YOU
As the summer solstice draws near, I find myself once again full of wonder and gratitude. It’s a gentle reminder to slow down, soak up the light, and take time to connect with the natural world. Whether I’m sketching in my journal, pressing fresh blooms, or simply pausing for a moment of quiet, this season always feels like a gift.
If you’re looking for a way to capture a piece of summer and hold onto it, I’d love to help. Whether you want to preserve wedding flowers, press a few blooms from your garden, or bring a bit of seasonal joy into your home, pressed flower art is a beautiful way to do just that.
So here’s to the summer solstice, to the long days, the warmth, and all the beauty this season offers. May you find your own way to celebrate it, and carry a little piece of summer with you, wherever you go.