We cannot neglect filling in greenery from the sides.
Although I'm careful not to cover up Santa's face, I still want a well rounded look and that includes inserting both greenery and flowers from the lateral sides of the container.
Turn your container around as you green in order to fill in any bare spots.
Don't feel you have to crowd the greenery, however, because you will still need room in the florist foam for inserting your fresh flowers.
Now a view from straight on shows a well filled container with mixed greenery that is ready for the insertion of fresh flowers.