6 Ideas For Non-Floral Wedding Reception Centerpieces
From bridal bouquets to petals that line the aisle, flowers are a wedding day staple that can hardly be escaped. But, that doesn’t mean you have to use florals as the main component of your reception centerpieces. If you’ve ever been to a wedding with tall flower vases as centerpieces you know the struggle of having to peer around it just to talk to someone from across the table. It’s also more sustainable (one of our core values), to use objects as centerpieces that won’t be discarded post-wedding. Floral centerpieces are beautiful and if they fit your wedding aesthetic then by all means go for it, but if flowers aren’t your thing or you’re looking for something unique – here are a few ideas for alternative centerpieces!
Candles
Create an intimate atmosphere by lining the middle of your table with candles! They create a warm glow that can provide a softer light in any reception space. Whether you opt for glass votives or vintage candlestick holders, you can choose a design that matches your wedding theme. If you do decide to use candles as your centerpiece, use unscented candles so there isn’t an overwhelming fragrance in the room, considering the number of candles you would need to cover all tables at your reception.
Photography by Jess Sinatra & JNR Photography
Photography by Alyssa Parker Photography
Potted Plants
Still, in the same natural element as flowers, potted plants can bring an earthy vibe to your wedding reception without the need for flowers. Whether you do miniature potted plants or one big one, guests can take them home at the end of the night. You can choose to place any plant in the pot from cactuses to succulents, just opt for a plant that pairs well with your wedding theme or color palette. You can also choose to include your favorite plant on tables for a more personal touch.
Woodland Elements
For the boho bride, a centerpiece of woodland elements like wood slabs or pinecones is perfect for a rustic wedding theme! It ties in natural elements without having to go full floral. You can use a few flowers to accent the woodland elements in the centerpiece, but they don’t need to be the focal point. You can also add in small votive candles for a more intimate look that complements the natural warmth of the woodland elements.
Photography by Chrissy Kites Photography
Photography by All The Little Stories Photography
Lanterns and Mason Jars
If you’re going for a more rustic, vintage look for your wedding reception, lanterns or mason jars are a perfect centerpiece. This is also a great idea if you’re having a wedding outside, especially in a forest or greenery setting. You can use lanterns as the main component of the centerpiece and then place two to three mason jars around it – filling them with candy, twinkle lights, or sand with seashells depending on your wedding theme!
Stacks of Vintage Books
For the couple who have books lining the shelves in their home, share your love of reading with your guests. While books can be a popular non-floral centerpiece, if it resonates with your love story, use it as an opportunity to get personal with your decor. If you have traveled to a lot of places together, use vintage travel books that include some of your favorite cities as your centerpiece. You can also go on a hunt for older prints of popular love stories that you love or speak to your love story. Add in some greenery and table number placards for a romantic reception centerpiece!
Photography by Ria Mackenzie Photography
Photography by Jessie Wyman & Christina Anne
Dessert Display
Who doesn’t love a good cupcake or cookie? A little spoiler: most decorated wedding cakes that you see at reception aren’t what you’ll be served for dessert. Most couples order a sheet cake to be served to guests and the actual wedding cake is used for the photo op of the bride and groom cutting the cake together. So, instead of having objects as a centerpiece, use it as an opportunity to have dessert ready to go on the guests’ tables!
Share this with a bride who is looking to have non-floral centerpieces. At the planning stage of searching for a wedding gown? Browse our collection of made-to-measure wedding gowns that are priced at $1,200 or less!
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