Your centerpieces don't have to contain flowers.
Floral centerpieces, though attractive, are difficult and expensive to maintain. Cut flowers wither and need to be replaced, while live plants require watering and repotting. Nonfloral centerpieces are cheaper, last indefinitely and can be adapted to fit the seasons. You will save time and money as you will no longer need to make weekly trips to the florist shop.
Christmas Ornaments
Christmas bulbs are attractive centerpieces during the holidays, but are also functional year-round depending on your color selection. Display round bulbs (with the hooks and metal removed) in a round glass jar, such as a fish tank. Purchase a variety of colors to alternate during the year. Display one or two colors at a time; such as pale yellow and purple for spring or deep green and orange during the fall.
Pinecones and Pine Sprigs
Pine is a well-known symbol of the winter months. Cut medium-sized clippings from a pine tree, make the clippings long enough to stick out the top of a vase. Many Christmas tree farms will give away their clippings; take advantage of this fact if you do not have your own tree. Fill a vase with the clippings and rest pine cones in the arms of the small branches.
Seashells
Seashells are great centerpieces during the summer because they remind your family and guests of the beach even if you live in a landlocked area. Collect or purchase a variety of small and medium seashells and display these in a shallow glass bowl or basin. You can even sprinkle sand in the bottom for added authenticity. Alternatively, buy a very large shell (such as a conch shell) and place it on the center of a platter with a variety of smaller shells around its base. Buy a fake plastic crab and place it in the display for a touch of humor.
Fruit
The ultimate functional centerpiece involves fresh fruit. Place a wicker basket in the center of the table and fill it with a variety of seasonal fruits. Add a few non-traditional fruits to add interest and spark conversation. Starfruit, horned melons and cherimoya all look unique and are edible. Allow your guests to eat fruit from the centerpiece; just be sure to replenish the basket before your next dinner event or party.
Related posts
Chrysanthemums, castor leaves and mini gourds can all become beautiful Thanksgiving centerpieces.Thanksgiving is one of several family and community celebrations that inspire hosts to take special...
A simple bouquet is not difficult to create.Using flowers is a timeless way to add a touch of beauty to any decor. A small floral bouquet can brighten a hallway or corner, or it can be the centerp...
A homemade centerpiece can make a table look instantly festive.A centerpiece makes a table look festive and striking even long after the guests have eaten dinner and you've cleared the plates away...
Combine pillar candles and silver Christmas ornaments for a silvery winter centerpiece.January celebrations need a little extra oomph to compete with the holiday bustle through Thanksgiving, Chris...
A bold flower arrangement enlightens a garden or a room.The elegant traditional Victorian floral arrangements often seen at weddings are more than just an arrangement. The Victorians knew the mean...
