Wedding Decorations

And now we come to the really fun bit. Almost everything at a wedding has the potential to be decorated, from the groom's lapel to the cocktail coaster. But the decorations that make the biggest impact are the table centerpieces.













You really can't go wrong with a lush arrangement of flowers. Table centerpieces are ideally low and wide to make a big impression without blocking views and conversation. I prefer arrangements with a narrow color range and textural unity. On the left, rannuculus in cream, orange and yellow are highlighted with a bit of greenery. On the right, parrot tulips and peonies range from creams and oranges to pinks and mauves.

Class cylinders are the ultimate centerpiece component. They come in a variety of sizes, can be used for flowers or candles, and can be customized to go with any look. The usual method is to affix colored fabric or patterned paper to the exterior. Here the cylinders have been covered in faux wood veneer, very Scandinavian modern.














Large receptions usually feature round tables that each seat about eight guests, but lately long rectangular tables have been making a comeback, perhaps because they lend themselves to more interesting centerpieces. On the left, flowering branches stand in a row of pale blue vases, which are placed in between seats to aid conversation. On the right similar stone vases are filled with a variety of white and yellow flowers, highlighted by a yellow runner underneath.













Sometimes it's the container that makes the centerpiece. Apples make a lovely focal point when mounded up in picturesque Nantucket baskets. Individual baskets of cherries double as favors. On the right a collection of unusual tea tins lends some unity to a diverse assortment of flowers. I love the arrangement's strong colors and kitschy charm.













Wheat is a favorite non-floral element of mine for weddings. It symbolizes prosperity and fertility (both appropriate for nuptials) and has a sort of minimalist sophistication, making it both modern and timeless. An abundant spray of wheat and grasses gets dressed up by a grey silk ribbon on the left. The theme could be continued through wheat wreaths like the one on the right (in a horseshoe shape for good luck) that could hang in the ceremony or reception space.













I also like almost any arrangement with lemons, though I can't explain why. I've even planned an entire citrus-themed wedding in case I ever have to get married in the winter (which would be a big money saver). The elegant arrangement on the left could be placed on either side of the altar, and gets its graceful lines from boughs of a lemon tree. They are used again in the centerpiece on the right, with adds some bold reds to the lemony yellows. The arrangement below left pairs white, yellow and hints of green with black containers for a graphic look. But the simplest citrus arrangement of all is to put a bunch of fruit in a bowl and call it a day. The arrangement below right adds drama with some ribbons, but I would rather see an unadorned collection of small oranges in various shades and shapes, including my favorite clementines. Then they could double as a fruit course for the guests.