The bridal bouquet Selecting your florist Bridal bouquet basics Tips for choosing a bridal bouquet Boutonnieres Coursages Decorating with balloons Centerpiece ideas for every season More table centerpiece ideas New flower trends The meaning of flowers Wedding flower checklist Local florists

• Fish bowls with fish
• Sandcastles atop a bed of sand and shells
• Vases with flag
• Potted flowers (you can decorate the pots and choose flowers to match your wedding colors)
• Decorated straw hats
• Herbs and greenery

Table Centerpiece Tips

Here are some tips to help you with selecting and setting up centerpieces for your wedding reception.

• Vary the size -- Vary the size and style of your centerpiece (vases, baskets, etc.). It gives a much more interesting and unique look to the room and overall decor.
• Be careful of tall centerpieces -- You want to make sure that they don't block the view of your guests or make it difficult for them to converse with each other across the table.
• Don't choose flowers with a strong scent -- It can distract from the enjoyment of the meal.
• Add sparkle to your table setting -- Try sprinkling some glitter or confetti around the center of the table.
• Make a small centerpiece look larger-- Use a mirror. You can rent round, flat mirrors from your local florist or party supply stores.
• Ask your reception site if they have anything to offer for centerpieces -- Some will include table centerpieces with the rental of your hall at no extra charge. Some will even give you a choice, such as a small floral arrangement or hurricane lamps. However, often venues may not offer this up for free, unless you ask.

Unique Centerpiece Ideas Using Fruit 

Looking for something a little bit different? A new trend in centerpieces is to add fruit. Below are a few ideas:

• Purchase cornucopias made from baskets or ceramics. Fill with assorted colorful fruits and vegetables. For an added touch, throw in flower petals or hardy flower heads, like sunflowers.
• Candelabra. Below the lit candles, drape small grapes and greenery with wire. For a more complex look, have your florist tie in ribbons or flower blooms.
• Hurricane Lamps. Place a tall pillar candle into the base of the lamp. Fill the bottom of the lamp with cranberries, real or fake. This makes for a simple, yet elegant centerpiece.
• Silver Bowls. Purchase decorated silver bowls and place chocolate covered strawberries on it, or an assortment of fruits. Your guests will appreciate your edible centerpieces.
• 3-Wick Candle. Around the 3-wick candle, place a grapevine wreath. Decorate the wreath with greenery, grapes and ribbon.

Adding flowers, candles and fruit together can add a gorgeous touch to any wedding ensemble. Get creative with your ideas, but make sure you (or your florist) create a sample centerpiece before your wedding day.

Next: New Flower Trends