Image Credit: Cindy Richter of Country Road 407Whether you're preparing for a laid-back weekend brunch or a festive celebration, incorporating some DIY centerpieces into your table will elevate the atmosphere. Your guests will surely notice and appreciate the extra effort you put into the event, and you'll have a beautifully styled piece of décor to set the mood for the occasion.
There are centerpieces suitable for any type of gathering, from a backyard barbecue to a graduation party. Choose one that matches your skills, available materials, and the amount of time you have, and this decorative touch will definitely stand out. At the very least, your effort will shine—though these foolproof centerpiece ideas are guaranteed to impress.
1. A Cluster of Tulips
Photography by Brea McDonaldA classic bunch of tulips never goes out of style. While they are typically linked with spring, we love how Maine wedding planner Azalea Events showcased them here in a brass vessel, paired with a tiny gingerbread house to give it a more festive, holiday feel.
2. Pumpkins and Greenery
Cindy Richter from Country Road 407An affordable yet incredibly clever idea is to stack mini pumpkins on top of lettuce leaves in a bowl, just like Cindy Richter from Country Road 407 did here in this centerpiece idea. Cindy jokingly remarks, "Hotels do it all the time, so why can’t I?! I’m fancy and budget-friendly." And we have to hand it to her: It looks lush and requires minimal effort!
3. A Vase with a Unique Twist
Theory Beyond DesignHow cool is this way to showcase blooms? Theory Beyond Design created a propagation stand that can be used to display a variety of colorful flowers in a surprising, eye-catching way.
4. Wishing Well
Levi BrownHere’s a heartfelt and interactive way to celebrate someone—whether it's Mom, a recent graduate, or an expectant parent. Distribute 6-inch-long strips of paper and ask guests to write a message (a wish, a memory, or a piece of advice) for the honoree. Twist the papers around a pen to curl them, then place them into a large bowl. The guest of honor can read the messages aloud during dessert.
5. Charming Container
James MerrellLarge flowers such as hydrangeas, roses, and peonies are beautifully showcased when placed in a forgotten serving piece, like a soup tureen.
6. Elevated Vase
Allie ProvostThis contemporary vase design features a clear body that allows it to blend seamlessly with any setting, resting gracefully on a brass pedestal that brings a touch of sophistication.
7. Quick and Easy 15-Minute Party Centerpieces
Add flair to your home with these chic vases, each created in just a few minutes for a stunning, effortless centerpiece.
8. Floating Fruit
Anita CaleroFor a playful and artistic touch, place bright Granny Smith apples in large, clear glass vases, filling them with varying levels of water to create an eye-catching display.
9. Sweet Stash
Anita CaleroA cheerful bouquet of colorful pinwheel lollipops stands tall in a bucket filled with dry sand, creating a fun and playful arrangement.
10. Creative Combo
James BaigrieThe deep hues of sweet peas and cabbages (yes, cabbages) come together in a stunning and inventive pairing.
11. Natural Pairing
Maura McEvoyFor a simple yet striking arrangement, place jewel-toned fruits like plums and pomegranates in a white bowl with smooth, graceful curves. Choose fruits of different sizes and shapes, but with matching colors for a harmonious look.
12. Silver Bells
Anita CaleroWhat could be more delightful than a tall vase filled with foil-wrapped Hershey Kisses, adding a touch of sparkle and sweetness?
13. Citrus Twist
Maura McEvoyCombine sleek, smooth objects like lemons with smaller, textured items such as nuts to create an intriguing arrangement. Display it in a glass bowl with a pedestal for added drama.
14. Colorful Cocktails
Anita CaleroA selection of vibrant sodas or juices brings a playful touch to any meal.
15. Paper Pom Poms
Quentin BaconOn a warm evening, set a laid-back table adorned with a bouquet of fiery-colored paper flowers, guaranteed to stay fresh all night.
16. Daisy Toppers
James BaigrieAdd a burst of sunshine to your table with a lively combination of daisies and oranges.
17. Fruit Fillers
James BaigrieThis monochromatic display begins with small citrus fruits (key limes, kumquats) and Peruvian lilies exploding with vivid hues.
18. Modern Fruit Display
Anita CaleroInvert containers (such as acrylic boxes with lids) and arrange fruit on top for a striking multi-layered effect.
19. Row of Daisies
James BaigrieA delightful field of gerbera daisies and wheatgrass "grow" naturally along a rustic table runner.
20. Mix and Match Vessels
Marcus NilssonArrange floral displays along your table—if you don't have enough vases, cake tins, jelly molds, and small ice buckets can serve as unexpectedly beautiful containers. For added ambiance, consider placing a few flameless candles between the arrangements.
21. Lush Carnation Display
Maura McEvoyTwo simple elements—a wooden salad bowl and carnations—come together to create something extraordinary. Trim the stems to about 3 or 4 inches, place them in a glass container, and position it inside the bowl.
22. Seasonal Substitution
David PrinceCut the top off a pumpkin and scoop out the seeds. Place fresh flowers in a jar of water and set it inside, or use dried leaves and twigs as an alternative.
23. Heavy Metal
Maura McEvoyA galvanized tub serves as the base for a collection of large leaves, such as magnolia leaves.
24. Autumnal Delight
Annie SchlechterFor a festive holiday touch, arrange pinecones—spray-painted in gold or silver, if desired—in vases and compotes of varying sizes, then finish with a cheerful ribbon.
25. Garden Greens
Lydia MenziesWhy not gather some greenery from your own garden for a unique centerpiece? Lydia Menzies showcased her collection in this creative display, incorporating vegetables like artichokes, apples, and zucchinis.
26. Wooden Candelabra
Erin Gerlach of Hamilton Park HomeThis creative spin on a candelabra is the perfect centerpiece for your table. Erin Gerlach of Hamilton Park Home crafted this unique piece herself! She discovered a 4' x 4' scrap of barn wood in her garage and drilled holes into it—upcycling at its best!
27. Vibrant, Deep Moss
Sucharita ShankerUse a tiered tray to create a gorgeous display filled with moss and vibrant blooms to add color and texture to your dining area, just like Sucharita Shanker did. You can easily order moss online or grab some from a local craft store for a quick solution.
28. Flower Pots Arranged on a Tray
Sucharita ShankerCreate your own personalized centerpiece by clustering a few flowerpots on a tray, just like Sucharita Shanker did. The added convenience is that you can easily lift the tray off the table instead of having to pick up multiple individual pots.
29. Coral Touch
Mary Frances MakerDraw inspiration from Mary Frances Maker and bring texture to your table by incorporating pieces of coral, which make an ideal addition to any coastal or nautical-themed event.
30. Expanding Elegance
Anita CaleroBranches, whether real or artificial, make a stunning addition to any arrangement. In an open-air space, spray them with white paint, let them dry, and then display them in glass bottles or vases.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What defines a great centerpiece?
A great centerpiece is visually appealing, doesn’t obstruct the view of guests, and aligns with the theme of the event. When using flowers, ensure they are fresh and properly trimmed. It’s also important that the centerpiece is appropriately scaled for the size of the table.
-
What else can I include in a centerpiece besides flowers?
There are many options to include in a centerpiece other than flowers. Common fillers include branches, fruit, candies (like chocolate kisses), or pinecones. For a children's party, consider using whimsical fillers such as lollipops, drink bottles, paper pom-poms, or curled ribbons.
-
How many centerpieces do I need?
For round tables, one centerpiece is typically sufficient. For larger round tables, use a bigger centerpiece. For rectangular tables, place one centerpiece every 3 to 4 feet. For example, a four-foot table would have one centerpiece in the center, while an eight-foot table would have two centerpieces spaced evenly apart.
