Wedding table centerpieces often cost far more than the bride’s bouquet, especially when brides try to outshine friends by choosing ever more extravagant displays.
Florists love using centerpieces to show off their design talents, making use of the latest accessories, display methods and, of course, the most desirable flowers, all of which come at a hefty price.
Alternative Ideas for Stunning Table Centerpieces
- Use feathers or candles in place of expensive fresh flowers which also have a second use after the wedding.
- Fresh herbs make a wonderful alternative to flowers and smell just as good if not better. Simply mix different colored herbs and leaf shapes and pile into a vase or glass.
- Colorful lanterns with a simple tea-light inside make a wonderful display for a romantic evening reception.
- Use reflective glass with pine cones surrounded by rosemary sprigs or rose petals for a simple, low cost table decoration.
- Consider using personalized wedding favors as an alternative to a central display. There will be more room for glasses and bottles of wine and guests will be so busy admiring their favors they won’t even realize there is no flower arrangement!
- Still want flowers? Why not buy artificial flowers which are not only cheaper but can be used around the home afterwards.
Make Wedding Table Centerpieces
Whilst opting for a DIY bridal bouquet can be daunting, innovative brides can have lots of fun making their own centerpieces. Here are some suggestions:
- First decide on a suitable size and theme for the centerpieces. They need to fit on the wedding reception tables and still leave room for other items like plates, glasses and bottles so don’t get carried away!
- Scour discount stores for suitable containers. Anything from cheap pottery to brightly colored bags can serve as great holders for the main display.
- Buy colored sand or foam from online floral supply stores, pour into a glass or small vase and place a simple flower inside.
- Buy some mini pails and use them as table numbers. Insert a large cheap flower like a hydrangea for a gorgeous yet simple effect as in the picture below.
- For a beach wedding, stick shells onto ceramic pots as table centerpieces and offer guests tall glasses with shells as a gift.
Inspiration for Inexpensive Table Decorations
There are hundreds of excellent wedding planning websites with ideas for making table centerpieces. Big sites like The Knot or Martha Stewart are full of inspiration but do take a look at some of the smaller sites and various wedding blogs, which are often packed full of innovative suggestions from brides who have made their own money-saving table displays.
Cutting the Cost of Wedding Reception Centerpieces
Whether a florist is employed or a bride opts for DIY, low cost alternatives to more traditional, extravagant floral displays can help save hundreds of dollars. Decide on a theme and have fun either making the centerpieces yourself or cut florist costs by choosing attractive alternatives to fresh flowers.
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- Artificial Wedding Bouquets and Centerpieces
- Celtic Wedding Dresses for a Fairytale Wedding
- How to Make a Bridal Bouquet
Helen Smeaton - Helen Smeaton runs a cycling and hiking business and is also a freelance writer and web designer. Read her profile for more information
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