Fishbowl Centerpiece Ideas

Fishbowls offer an attractive alternative to the average centerpiece vase. Their larger size allows more decorative options. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to find at craft stores, discount stores and pet shops. Your arrangements extend beneath the rim of the bowl--protecting the centerpiece from wind and little fingers that may otherwise destroy it.

Flowers and Fruit

Reminiscent of a terrarium, use a fishbowl as a vase for floral arrangements. Fill the bowl with cut flowers. Remove most of the stems before arranging inside the fishbowl. Put the flowers in on their own or place them on a bed of floral marbles or rocks.

Fill the fishbowl first with marbles, rocks or even small fruits such as key limes and kumquats. Add water to cover the filler, then arrange your bouquet of cut flowers as you would in a traditional vase.

Candles and Objects

Make a display that matches your theme inside your fishbowl. For an ocean themed event or pool party, place 2 to 3 inches of sand in each fishbowl. Arrange colorful shells, dry starfish and sand dollars inside the bowl. Place a candle in the bowl with the objects or fill with water and place three or four floating candles on top.

Place a large votive into a clear glass votive holder. Set inside the fishbowl. Layer different colored sand between the votive holder and the fish bowl. Or use glass marbles or shells or any small item that is available in bulk and can be used to fill the space.

Live Fish

Live fish centerpieces need special consideration. You will need a place to put them after the event. Certain species are less fragile than others--goldfish and beta are types used for most centerpieces. Be sure to prepare the water properly for the type of fish following the instructions from the pet store.

Fill the bottom of the bowls with glass marbles or other decorative aquarium fillers. Follow the instructions from the pet store for the particular fish variety and prepare the water. Add aquarium plants or other decorative elements to the ensemble before adding the fish. Be aware that these centerpieces work best in indoor locations with a steady room temperature--if it is too hot or too cold, the fish may die.

References

• Real Simple
• Coastal Living