Whether you're preparing for a casual weekend brunch or a celebratory soirée, adding DIY centerpieces to your spread will take your event up a notch. Your guests will appreciate that you put a little time and effort into your party, providing photogenic decorations that will set the tone for the entire event. Best of all, your attractive centerpiece can influence others in your circle. Before you know it, everyone will be assembling simple centerpieces to jazz up the table.
Choosing seasonal table decorations (like pumpkin centerpieces) is a good idea, but so is creating table decorations that suit any season. The key to a simple centerpiece is to let it speak for itself and not get too hung up on his one (relatively small) element of the party. After all, the purpose of this occasion is to enjoy spending time with other people.
From backyard parties to graduation gifts, we have centerpieces for every occasion. Mix and match with your skill set, craft supplies, and available time. That way, this little party decoration will shine. At least you'll get an A for effort, but these no-fail centerpiece ideas are sure to shine.
tulip bouquet
blair mcdonald photo
There's nothing more classic than a simple bunch of tulips. Usually these are associated with spring, but Maine wedding planner Azealia decided that her event would be more holiday-themed by placing them in a brass vessel next to her mini gingerbread house. I like the way it creates atmosphere.
pumpkin and vegetables
Cindy Richter of Country Road 407
An inexpensive but incredibly clever idea is to layer mini pumpkins on top of lettuce leaves in a bowl. This is what Cindy Richter of Country Road #407 did with this featured idea. Cindy humorously said, “Hotels do it all the time, so why don't I do it?! I'm luxurious and cheap.” And we must give her credit. It looks very luxurious and requires very little effort.
wishing well
levi brown
Here are interactive and heartfelt ways to congratulate someone, whether it's a mother, a recent graduate, or an expectant parent. Hand out pieces of paper about 6 inches long and have guests write messages for the recipients (wishes, memories, advice, etc.). Twist and curl the paper around the pen and toss it into a large bowl. Have the guest of honor read your message during dessert.
attractive container
james merrell
Large flowers such as hydrangeas, roses, and peonies look gorgeous on unused soup plates.
Related: Easy 15-minute party centerpieces
Dress up your home with stylish vases that take just minutes to make.
floating fruit
Anita Carrero
Create a whimsical still life by floating a bright Granny Smith in a large clear glass vase (filled to different levels).
sweet stash
Anita Carrero
A bouquet of colorful pinwheel candies stands cheerfully and stably in a bucket filled with dry sand.
creative combo
james beigley
The rich colors of sweet pea and cabbage (yes, cabbage) come together beautifully in creative combinations.
natural pairing
Maura McEvoy
A simple arrangement of jewel-colored fruit in a white bowl with sensual lines. Look for fruits that vary in size and shape but are similar in color, like plums and pomegranates.
silver bell
Anita Carrero
What could be tastier than a sparkling big footed vase of foil-wrapped treats?
citrus twist
Maura McEvoy
Create attractive compositions by combining smooth objects (lemons) with smaller, textured objects (nuts). It will be displayed in a glass bowl with a pedestal for drama.
colorful cocktails
Anita Carrero
A variety of brightly colored sodas and juices will add a fun atmosphere to your dinner.
paper pom pom
Quentin Bacon
On a sultry night, place a bouquet of hot-colored paper flowers, guaranteed not to wilt, on a casual table.
daisy toppers
james beigley
Bring some sunshine into your meals with this vibrant combination of daisies and oranges.
fruit filler
james beigley
This tone-on-tone combination begins with miniature citrus fruits (key limes, kumquats) and brightly colored Peruvian lilies.
modern fruit display
Anita Carrero
Turn the container (here an acrylic box and lid) upside down and arrange the fruit on top to create a multi-tiered design.
row of daisies
james beigley
A field of gerbera daisies and wheatgrass will 'grow' attractively within the rustic table runner.
combination of containers
Marcus Nilsson
Arrange flower arrangements on the table. If you don't have enough vases, use cake molds, jelly molds, or small ice buckets to create stunning containers. You can also add some flameless candles between the arrangements for a bit of lighting.
Lush carnation display
Maura McEvoy
The addition of two subtle elements – a wooden salad bowl and carnations – creates something special. Cut the stems into 3-4 inch pieces and place them in a bowl, arranged in a glass dish.
Seasonal Substitutes
david prince
Cut off the top of the pumpkin and scoop out the seeds. Place fresh flowers in a jar of water, or use dried leaves and twigs.
heavy metal
Maura McEvoy
A galvanized tub provides a base for collecting oversized leaves such as magnolias.
Autumn fun
Annie Schrechter
For holiday decorations, spray-paint pine cones in gold or silver if you like, arrange them in staggered-sized vases or compotes, and garnish with festive ribbons.
garden green
Lydia Menzies
Looking for some eye-catching greenery in your own garden? Lydia Menzies proudly showed off her bounty with this cheeky arrangement featuring vegetables such as artichokes, apples and zucchini.
branch out
Anita Carrero
Both artificial and real branches look impressive when arranged. Spray it with white paint and let it dry in a well-ventilated outdoor area before displaying it in a glass jar or vase.
FAQ
What makes a great centerpiece?
A good centerpiece is one that's pleasing to the eye, doesn't block the view of your guests, and is consistent with your party's theme. If you use flowers, make sure they are fresh and properly trimmed. For centerpieces, make sure they are scaled appropriately to the size of the table.
What else can I put in a centerpiece besides flowers?
There are several other items you can include in centerpieces besides flowers. Common filler ideas include branches, fruit, candy (like chocolate kisses), or pine cones. If you're planning a child's party, consider whimsical fillers like lollipops, drink bottles, paper pom-poms, and curled ribbons.
How many centerpieces do I need?
For a round table, one centerpiece is sufficient. However, use larger centerpieces for large round tables. For rectangular tables, consider placing one centerpiece every 3 to 4 feet. Therefore, a 4-foot table will have one centerpiece in the middle, and an 8-foot table will have two equally spaced centerpieces.