How to Save Money on a Wedding Centerpiece Base

As wedding prices climb higher and higher, and reception decorations and centerpieces average $936 for 100-200 guests, there are foolproof ways to keep your wedding cost down. Be creative with your centerpiece base and you'll likely save at least 30% on each centerpiece arrangement.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Creativity
• An open mind
• Research time

1. Put on your creative thinking hat. Not all centerpiece bases have to be glass or in the style of a vase. Don't rule out any fabric or textile when brainstorming your centerpiece base. Using different fabrics, such as bamboo mats, velvet, silk or tulle can make a centerpiece unforgettable.

2. Consider charger plates for your centerpiece base. Charger plates are typically round or square, and are usually large enough to hold an assortment of candles or any other display items. Charger plates are economical since they often come in boxed sets and can be found frequently on sale in department stores. Charger plate colors such as gold or silver are standard, and stores may have a varying color selection seasonally.

3. Shop for discounts at outlet stores, online sites, specialty household stores, and department stores. If you plan ahead, you can find large hurricanes, vases, serving platters, candleabras, and candles at huge discounts. In addition, depending upon your color scheme, you may be able to find special items at post-season clearance sales.
   
   Although it may not seem worth the effort to save $7 or $10 dollars per base, when multiplying the amount by 15, (10 people per table with 150 guests), the savings adds up.

4. Keep an open mind. Those blue glass water bottles you recycled last week may be a great centerpiece base...at definitely the right price!

Tips & Warnings

• If you are using a florist to design your centerpiece, ask in advance if you will be charged an additional fee for providing your own centerpiece base or vase.
• When buying online, order an extra in the event of breakage. Since you are likely purchasing discontinued items, it may be difficult to get a matching one at a later date.
• Don't forget to consider shipping fees, if applicable. Call the store to see if some of the fees may be waived if you're buying multiple similar items.
• Reallocate the savings per centerpiece into more elaborate party favors. With 150 guests, saving $10 per centerpiece allows you to spend $1 more per party favor, without increasing your budget. $1 more per party favor has a lot more impact than $10 on a table centerpiece.
• Make sure you have adequate storage for any centerpiece items ordered. 15 large hurricane boxes may take a lot of room.