Centerpieces With Candles & Flowers

A fresh sunflower bouquet surrounded by small, tealight candles adds color and light to reception tables.

For the do-it-yourself couple, wedding reception centerpieces are an ideal area to express creativity and show off some crafting skills. Simple, decorative centerpieces bring together the color and personality of the wedding ceremony. Flowers and candles bring instant elegance and sparkle to a reception venue.

Materials

Many unexpected materials can be used to hold flowers and candles for custom-made centerpieces. Gather mason jars, teacups, teapots, tin cans and flower pots to serve as unique and unexpected vases or candle holders.

Filling the Vessel

Once a vessel is selected, decide if it will be filled with candles, flowers or floating candles. For a floral arrangement add floral foam to the vase to help fresh flowers stand up. Gravel, fish rocks, sand and decorative stones hold candles well. For a floating arrangement fill a clear vase with water.

Arranging Flowers and Candles

Choose flowers that reflect the colors used elsewhere in the wedding ceremony, or those that are similar to the bridal party's bouquets. Arrange them so the vase is full of lush, texture. Candle centerpieces range from long tapers to thick pillars to small tea lights. Adorn candles with fresh florals or ribbon to add interest. Consider making a wired wreath with flowers to adorn a candle arrangement. Add mirrors to reflect light and give more depth to the candlelight.

References

• Real Simple: How To: Make a Table Centerpiece with Recycled Cans
• Real Simple: Create a Quick Terra-Cotta Pot Centerpiece
• All Wedding Ideas: Creative Wedding Centerpieces