How to Make a Beach-Themed Centerpiece

Looking for a unique centerpiece for your beach-themed engagement or wedding reception party? This is a great centerpiece for a beach theme party. Follow the steps below to create a dramatic floating candle centerpiece for your next party.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Floating candle bowls Sand Water crystals Floating candles Starfish Seashells Palm leaves Orchids or other tropical flower petals

1. Get floating candle bowls from a craft store. Decide on the number of bowls based on the number of tables and additional places you would like to place the bowls, such as the guest book table.

2. Purchase water crystals online in 1-ounce packs that make up to 1 gallon of crystals or 1-pound jars that make up to 16 gallons. You can use aquamarine for a lighter blue or turquoise sea for a greenish-blue color. Determine how many packs will be needed based upon the size of the floating candle bowl. Generally, one packet is sufficient to fill three floating-candle bowls with the following dimensions: 5-3/8 inches wide, 2.75 inches high and 10 inches in diameter.

3. Follow the directions on the water crystal pack, and mix the contents of the package with the specified amount of tap or distilled water. Distilled water makes larger crystals. Using hot water will cause the crystals to grow faster. Let the mixture sit for the specified amount of time indicated on the package. Drain excess water after letting the mixture settle for the specified time.

4. Fill the bowls a quarter of the way with sand. Next, fill the rest of the bowl with water crystals. Add a floating candle to the center of the bowl. Scatter seashells and starfish around the bowl. Light the candle. Finally, place the bowl on top of a palm leaf and scatter orchids or other tropical flower petals around the bowl and leaf.

Tips & Warnings

• Water crystals can be made in advance, days before the party. If they dry out, add more water.