Advice about
wedding centerpieces

Wedding centerpieces should follow two sets of guidelines. The first to follow is the style of the wedding itself - formal, casual or intimate. It's the second set of guidelines that we'll discuss here - the ones governing flower choice and arrangement.

Regardless of where the wedding centerpieces will be placed at the wedding reception site, keep a few general things in mind. First, the flowers should not shed their pollen.

This is a particular problem with lilies, one that florists avoid by removing the flower's stamen. Second, try to avoid flowers with overwhelming fragrance.

There will be many competing odors from perfumes and food. Allergy sufferers will thank you, as well. Third, build your wedding centerpieces with flowers that do not wilt readily. This limits your choices somewhat, but remember that florists use blossoms that will withstand many hours of room heat and they never seem to lack for inspiration or materials for the wedding centerpieces they create.

elegant white wedding centerpiece from 1-800-Flowers.com

Will the wedding centerpiece be on a serving table or some where in the background as a "mood" piece? If so, it should be large enough to be seen from some distance away, reflect the flowers carried and worn in the wedding ceremony, the season of the year and the formality or informality of the event.

The arrangement should compliment the room not overwhelm it, and if it will be on a food service table, should not wilt, droop or shed.

Be especially careful of large centerpieces placed near candles. Placing candles in glass columns can help reduce the danger of a centerpiece going up in flames. Wedding centerpiece design will differ according to whether the wedding reception is casual, serving mostly finger food or a sit down meal with formal service.

Again, avoid droopy or highly perfumed flowers, but this time arrange the centerpieces in a low mound rather than a tower so that guests seated at the tables can easily see each other and converse. Remember candles when designing the centerpieces. For a very formal table, use tall candles that will keep the glare of the flame above the diners' line of sight.

Light from above will glitter on the crystal and silver table service and create a delightful atmosphere. For casual tables, pillar or votive candles that are below the guests' chin level will cast a warm glow, and enhance the informal centerpiece.

If you know that your wedding guests will expect to take the centerpieces home with them, do not build them in containers you wish to keep. Simple vases are readily available at thrift stores, yard sales, grocery stores and florists supply houses. For arrangements where the container is hidden, consider using plastic containers.

Give yourself time to make up some sample centerpieces. This will allow you to see how long it really takes you to build them, and to change from the idea of one on every table to a few strategically placed "mood" pieces if the logistics demand. It also gives you time to speak with more than one floral supplier, to discover the best prices, the freshest sources, and possibly the supplier who will make up your wedding centerpieces for less money than you thought.