This month, we tackle the topic of reception centerpieces. Below are a few useful tips and suggestions for your DIY wedding flowers, cut and shipped direct from Flowerbud’s growers to you.

When preparing your own wedding reception centerpieces, there are a few things to keep in mind:

1. You want your guests to be able to converse across the table at the reception and comment on how lovely every part of the day has been. Therefore, your centerpieces should not stand higher that 12-14", and the vases should be about 6-7" in length. Flowers that are normally cut to be the appropriate size for centerpieces include tulips, mini calla lilies, irises, or hydrangea. If you are interested in using flowers that are normally cut taller, such as large calla lilies, gladiola, lilies, French tulips, Gerbera daisies, or sunflowers, please feel free. However, you can expect to cut off most of the stems in order to fit the vases. With these flowers particularly, concentrating a larger number of stems into a smaller vase creates a stunning effect.
   
   
2. If you don’t have many flowers to work with, you can still make use of them for your reception centerpieces. Use a small vase of flowers or bowl of floating blooms. Surround it with things like sand, stones, candles, flower petals, etc., to create a look that is consistent with your wedding theme or feel. Placing a round mirror or glass underneath a table centerpiece is also a nice touch.
   
   
3. Be aware that some of your guests might not take too well to very fragrant flowers in a centerpiece arrangement, especially when the meal is served. Therefore, think twice when considering using the following in large amounts on tables: Stargazer lilies, Oriental lilies, freesia, lavender, or in some cases roses. One or two stems is usually fine, but you don’t want to overwhelm your guests.
   
   
4. Use your reception centerpieces to enhance the overall theme of the wedding. Did you plan a down-home, casual event? Consider Mason jars for vases. Wedding on the beach? Use sand and shells in your centerpieces, surrounding tropical flowers. Going for a softer, elegant look? Try laying lace under your centerpieces. A simple choice or addition can bring a cohesive look to your entire reception!
   

If you would like to share your reception centerpiece ideas, please feel free to email me, and I’ll post them in next month’s newsletter. Also, if you’ve had your reception with Flowerbud flowers, please feel free to send your comments and pictures! As always, thank you for your interest in Flowerbud.