How To – Non Floral Centerpieces

How To by Jennifer Crone

First it’s important to note that floral centerpieces are lovely. And non floral doesn’t necessarily mean cheap or do it yourself – this is about innovative design ideas. For the organic couple flowers may not be the best option. For the allergic bride or groom, definitely not! For the unique couple who’s looking for a less traditional look and feel, flowers may not be your choice either. Whatever the thought behind it, non floral centerpieces can add an interesting element to your reception decor. Here’s How To:

photo source: Martha Stewart Weddings

Lighting is important for your reception, and everyone looks great by candlelight. For a romantic, grandiose feel think candelabras dripping with tapered candles. For this look you’ll want to get candles that burn outward as opposed to burning in – just be mindful of fire hazards. For a modern feel think pillars in varying heights in chic glass cylinders. For a less formal wedding luminary bags are fun, and they can be embellished. I like a lacy luminary to cast a romantic glow onto your guests. For something more understated use floating votives. Add pebbles for color and texture.

For an outdoor wedding I love lanterns as centerpieces. They come in varying metals and colors to coordinate with any decor. Candles are less of a fire hazard when encased in glass, and lanterns can also be hung from trees or a trellis. It’s important to note that candles burn at different rates, so be sure to do your research and get all candles by the same maker. You don’t want them to burn out midway through the reception. Spare your guests a headache by using unscented candles and let them enjoy the smell of amazing food!

photo source: Bridal Inquirer

Just because you’re not using flowers doesn’t mean you have to give mother nature the heave-ho: there are plenty of other options. Think fruits and vegetables. A cake stand or large bowl full of lemons and limes, oranges, apples or pears depending on the season. For a fall wedding think cornucopia: beautiful squashes and pumpkins in oranges, yellows and greens. Lay them on a bed of fall leaves. Branches are another natural alternative. They can be placed in vases – think vintage milk glass for romance or glass cylinders for a clean look – and set up around the room in larger planters for a more dramatic feel. Picture a reception space with dark wood branches throughout set aglow with warm candlelight from lanterns. I love it! Moss is another trend we’re seeing and it’s quite lovely. Moss pillows or boxes wrapped in ribbon are quaint. Incorporate with feathers and branches for a forest feel.

Your creativity is the only limit when thinking about new ideas. What do you love? What is the overall feel of your wedding? Tie bundles of vintage books together with silk ribbon for a literate centerpiece, use vintage birdcages or miniature sailboats, globes or ornaments in glass for a holiday wedding, or a multitude of photos in frames of varying sizes. What can you dream up?