In a blog post we wrote last week we got some fantastic emails from brides to be about how helpful the post was to help you create paper bouquets for your wedding instead of fresh flowers so with that in mind we thought we should write a follow up to that post to give you some more ideas about alternative centre piece arrangements.
If you haven’t read that post yet be sure to check it out here.
A beautiful wedding centrepiece does not have to show off a single stem – a flower stem we mean. You can get creative with different types of decor items, elements and more. There is no need for flowers in a traditional wedding – and you can create an equally elegant look without the cost or waste.
In this post you will learn the following:
Why more brides are skipping floral centrepieces and 12 creative ideas for non floral centrepieces.
Why More Brides are Skipping Floral Centerpieces
There are a few reasons brides are moving toward non-floral wedding centerpieces. One of the most common reasons is that brides just don’t want to take on the expense of real flowers. Not only can those floral centerpieces cost hundreds, but there is nothing a bride can do with them after the wedding.
Floral centerpieces are a big cause of wedding waste – and a lot of eco-friendly and environmentally conscious brides don’t want to be part of that.
But, other brides are doing it because they just don’t want to have a been-there-done that style. Floral centerpieces don’t add anything unique to your wedding and if you are looking for a wedding that is unique to your personal style, you may want to skip the flowers and go for something a little different.
Non-Floral Centerpiece Ideas
There are literally hundreds of ways to create a non-floral centerpiece. But, to get you started, here are a 12 alternative centrepiece ideas:
Bird Cages
Going for a rustic or garden-style wedding? Then why not use a large, colourful bird cage on the table? You can use cut up pieces of wood hung from string as table markers, and you can fill the basket with candles, aromatics or even moss. This is perfect for those vintage-style weddings too – especially if you antique each bird cage.
A little tip: don’t buy bird cages brand new. Scour antique shops and even yard sales to see if you can find some cheap, used ones. All it takes it a coat of spray paint to make them all the same colour – and it adds a little more uniqueness if each cage is a little different.
Use a Lantern
Lanterns are great for those cold-weather weddings. They add a warm, cozy feel and can even add a classic or vintage touch. If you are having a summer wedding, brighten up the lanterns by using a white colour rather than rusted colour. Use a candle in the center to give that romantic appeal and don’t be afraid to paint the lanterns to suit your wedding style.
Go for Tea Cups
Looking for a traditional wedding or vintage style? You can create a country-chic wedding look with teacups as your centerpiece. These are the perfect combo of antique and elegance. All you have to do is check out local flea markets, second hand stores and even garage sales to find plenty of tea cups for your centerpieces.
You can fill them with floating candles or even stack the cups in the center using glue to give them a whimsical look.
Seashells Always Work
Bring the beach to your wedding with seashells. You can fill clear vases with beach sand and shells or even use the shells as a holder for large candles. Do not forget to include some starfish and coral pieces to complete the look.
Stack Books
Are you and your fiance avid readers? Why not add a little of your own interests to your centerpieces. You can find old books at garage sales, local stores and even online. It’s okay if they are beaten up and even torn – they are just decoration.
Books are extremely romantic and even add a vintage appeal to your overall wedding decor. Most importantly, you can recycle or give the books away after the wedding – so that nothing goes to waste.
Use Fresh Fruit
Fresh fruits are more than just decorations. They are actually a symbol of fertility. Use them to create a colourful centerpiece – and add a little pop. For summer weddings, go with limes, oranges or lemons. They give off just enough fragrance too to make your wedding refreshing.
Use Wine Bottles
Wine bottles are clean and contemporary – and can second for the toast. Use large, cut-out graphic numbers to stick over the original label so that you can mark tables or give your guests a neat little “hello” message.
Branches
Branches are classic and rustic, but they can also be elegant. Use branches held in place with foam. Decorate them with strings of pearls or drape tulle.
Use Potted Plants and Herbs
Potted plants and herbs are vivacious and eco-friendly. You can take them home after the wedding and not worry about any waste or even give them away to guests as they leave, If you are focusing on an organic wedding, go with the herbs and buy them at your local farmer’s market. You can even fill each table full of small little pots so there is enough for each guest to take home – and they can replace your “thank you” gifts at the door.
Paper Pinwheels
If you are crafty and want a fun DIY project, create paper pinwheels and put them in a decorative vase. Host a craft night a month before the wedding so everyone can participate and learn a new trick.
Don’t waste your money on the premade ones though. While these save you time, you’ll spend almost as much as flowers buying premade paper pinwheels.
Make It Sweet…and Edible
A delicious, fun wedding centerpiece: candy. Fill bowls with large coloured sugar pieces, crushed candy or even pinwheel lollipops that match your colour scheme. You don’t have to have a carnival style wedding to embrace this wedding centerpiece either.
Use Ornaments
If you are getting married near the holidays, use ornaments as your centerpiece. These will help tie in the holiday, but also add a touch of elegance and timeless beauty. And, they are relatively inexpensive to purchase in bulk.
For more ideas and inspiration be sure to check out some of our other posts regarding flowers and centrepieces below.
Until next time, happy planning !!!