Reception centerpieces can be a huge expense, but don’t have to be. If they are DIY’d, costs are significantly reduced. Although, it needs to be done simply or the costs can add up. Isn’t that why DIY centerpieces are done in the first place – to save money? It’s very easy to go overboard with DIY supplies which could add up to more than having a florist do them.
My advice, USE CANDLES! Vases/candle holders can be purchased at the dollar store. Better yet, purchase the glassware all secondhand. Good Will and Salvation Army always have a ton of these. Use a tall cylinder vase with a wide opening and a 3 or 6-inch pillar candle. Christmas Tree Shops is another great place to get supplies.
A lot of venues have the round mirrors that go under centerpieces – ASK! These mirrors will accentuate the candlelight and give a finished look. If the venue does not have any, they can be purchased on Amazon for less than $30 for sets of 10 or 12. They also have square ones which add a nice touch. Read my post on DIY Candle Centerpieces for some ideas.
My favorite candle centerpieces are the simpler ones with just a pillar candle in the center and decoration around the bottom of candle. This is so simple, yet so pretty and this is all that is needed. The decor at the bottom can be rose petals, sand, rocks, pine cones, pearls, or really just about any small items that fit.
A simple ring of flowers can be added if desired. I personally think just the candle is fine. Less is more, but that’s just me. The larger craft stores such as Michael’s, AC Moore, and Jo-Ann Fabric run coupons in flyers and online frequently for 40-50% off. Shop at the end of summer when most of the flowers are deeply discounted. For those that want to keep it super easy and more budget-friendly, everything can be purchased at The Dollar Tree. Some of their flowers are not good choices as they have that plastic look to them (well, um, they ARE plastic), but keep looking around. Also, they may not all be in one area. Don’t forget about the spinning flower displays out front.
Another tip, don’t feel the need to do everything the same. Half the centerpieces can be done one way and the other half a different way. This way there is no commitment to buy the exact same thing for 10 tables or however many there are. If you see a sale and there isn’t enough for all the tables, that’s OK. Another sale will come around with enough for the other tables. Also, it adds more character when everything is not identical.
Switch it up, be creative, be unique.
Here are some additional DIY videos on making candle flower centerpieces:
DIY ELEGANT TABLE CENTERPIECE by Thalia Basulto
Table Centerpiece With Silk Flowers Tutorial by Tanya’s DIY Party
DIY Tall Gold Rush Elegant Wedding Centerpiece by Miss PlanIt
