When planning centerpieces, consider the wedding theme and the style of the bride and groom. Creative DIY wedding centerpieces can add a lovely personal touch to the evening.
Candle Centerpieces
Many venues do not allow candles, due to fire hazards. Luckily, there are many realistic, battery-operated candles on the market; some are even scented. They come in a range of sizes and often the light or flame is set low in the candle, so guests will not notice the difference.
- Tea light candles - Place tea lights in a frosted glass holder, or wrap some decorative fabric over the candle holder, tied with ribbon. Arranging several tea lights together on the table will create a nice effect.
- Lanterns - These will work well as centerpieces for a rustic or casual wedding; but depending on the style, they may work for a more formal wedding as well. They are available in a variety of sizes and styles. Accent the lantern with a ribbon tied on the handle.
- Large glass candle holders like hurricane globes - Picture them surrounded in beaded garlands or dried flower garlands. Other things to consider for this centerpiece include sea shells, glass gem stones, jelly balls, water beads, or crystal soil.
Environmentally Friendly Centerpieces
- Potted plants - These can double as favours for your guests.
- Earthy touch - Collect smooth beach stones in a bowl and place a candle in middle. Gray beach stones provide a calm, cool ambiance.
- Fresh Fruit - Arrange some fruit in a bowl. To make a statement, use just one colour. Fruits that work well for this centerpiece are apples, lemons, oranges and limes.
Edible Centerpieces
- Cake - If it is difficult to decide on a flavour or design for the wedding cake, why not make a different one for each table? Place the cake (or cupcakes) on a pedestal cake stand in the middle of the table. This will do double duty as a dessert for guests. It is an attractive and delicious option that can also be budget friendly.
- Candy - Arranged in glass jars, this will be a fun, colourful centerpiece that also doubles as a guest favour. After dinner, have the reception staff arrange the candy jars on a buffet table with cellophane or paper bags that guests can use to collect some goodies.
Guests appreciate the personal touches that brides and grooms include at their wedding receptions. And the creative details do not go unnoticed either. It is a good idea to take time to create centerpieces that reflect the personality of the bride and groom, and that will be pleasing to all friends and family.
Marie MacDonald - Marie MacDonald is based in London, UK. She joined Suite101 in January, 2010.
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