How to Make Table Arrangements & Centerpieces

A table centerpiece can add an extra touch of style and color to even an ordinary meal at home. You do not need to use expensive floral arrangements or to spend a lot of time and effort preparing a centerpiece. Simply working creatively with what you have can result in a centerpiece that elevates even the most casual family dinner into a celebratory occasion. A few basic guidelines will help you understand how to design simple but elegant centerpieces. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Consider the setting and the style of the party. Generally, a long rectangular centerpiece works better with a similarly shaped table, while round centerpieces complement a round table. If you are having a large party, you can get away with a large centerpiece, which would look too ornate for an intimate dinner. You can create a taller centerpiece to place on a buffet table, but if people are dining together at the table, the centerpiece should not obscure their view of those across from them.

2

Take inspiration from the timing and nature of the occasion. You will want a centerpiece to create a different mood for a wedding party than for a funeral reception or birthday party. If the event is related to a holiday, you can include ornaments and decorations related to that theme. You can use seasonal elements as well: fresh flowers from your garden in warmer weather; colorful in-season fruits; gourds and pumpkins in fall or pinecones and fir branches in winter.

3

Assemble the decor elements you might use. In addition to flowers and other items from nature, you might use vases of different shapes and sizes, bowls, trays, candles and candleholders. Christmas ornaments or Halloween decorations may be used in season. You could also use decorative flat marbles, smooth river stones, seashells, prisms or crystals.

4

Experiment with different ideas, combining the centerpiece ingredients in a variety of ways to find something that is visually pleasing without being distracting.

5

Balance creativity with practical concerns. You do not want to pile elements precariously high in a bowl, for example, so that guests fear that reaching for their glass will topple your table decor. Also, avoid scented candles as you do not want them competing with the aroma of the food you will serve.