Centerpieces - More Than Flowers

When most people think centerpieces, they think of beautiful flower-filled vases or stunning greenery that adds a fresh and beautiful style to the table. It's a wonderful image, and often it looks just as beautiful as expected. However, I would like to challenge you to think of some new alternatives. Imagine, if you will, centerpieces without flowers - or at the very least, centerpieces in which the flowers are not the focus.

Though flower-filled centerpieces are a common sight at weddings, they are not the only option available. In fact, flower-less centerpieces can be more striking and memorable than their more common alternatives.

Additionally, there are a number of advantages to creating centerpieces without flowers.

The first being the all important decrease in costs. Flowers are expensive, and by cutting down on the amount that you are purchasing, you can free up a portion of your budget.

Then of course there is the minor detail of allergies – less flowers means there will be less of a chance that your guests will be stuffed up and uncomfortable during the reception.

An additional use for the centerpieces is to incorporate your favors into them! This will eliminate the added clutter of favors to the table setting, or the need to have a separate location for the favors to be located. Not all centerpieces need to be identical, variations in height, color and placement can improve the overall appearance of the decor.

(in this case a folding card is used to inform the guests that the mini plants are intended as a gift)

When it comes to planning centerpieces, the first detail you are going to want to take into consideration is the theme of your wedding. If your theme is something specific and more than just a color choice, you can use your centerpieces as the culmination of your theme.

Unlike with other aspects of decor, it is easier to go overboard on your centerpieces without decreasing the charm of the event. If you were to be hosting, for example, a Star Wars themed wedding – Star Wars print table cloths might be taking it a bit far – fans you might be, but tacky is never a good plan for a wedding. However, artistic centerpieces with original Star Wars action figures worked into the design, could be made to work.

Centerpieces are meant to be the main focus of your table, but they can be so much more than a piece of decor that simply sits there and looks pretty! They are also great conversation starters as they can be ice-breakers for your guests who may not know each other.

Light can be also be included in your centerpieces to add that oh-so-chic glow to the tabletop without the glaring lights shining down on you from above. Candles will add romance to the atmosphere while twinkle lights can make it more festive. Luminaries will give off a subtle glow that brings an extra dimension to the centerpiece.

Of course the final decisions must be all yours, however if you are uncertain what you want, the following questions may help you determine your personal taste.

Ask yourself...

Do I want elaborate or simple centerpieces?

Should they be short or tall? Tip: Keep in mind that centerpieces should be higher or lower than eye level. They should not block the view or discourage table conversation!

Do I want them themed or more generic?

What is my budget for table decor?

What is the most important detail I want to include in the centerpieces?

Good luck with your planning, and remember – vases can hold so much more than just water and flowers!

After 27 years in the very dynamic wedding market, Weddingstar continues to evolve in order to keep pace. Their ever-expanding selection of bridal products, wedding accessories, wedding cake toppers and wedding favors features many exclusive designs, inspired and manufactured by their talented design team.

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