Wedding Reception Centerpieces

I'm doing the wedding reception centerpieces for my friend's wedding.

I have done a few before, simply elegant ones.

My friend picked tall 20 inch cylinder vases.

I suggested that perhaps she should go low vases so people can talk and actually see each other.

She was set on tall ones. Now she wants the tall floral arrangements on pedestals so people will not have the obstruction of the vase but just thin pedestals.

I can't find pedestals for that purpose ANYWHERE.

Any suggestions?

Thank you so very much, I'm lost!
Maura

Answer by Diane:

Hi Maura,

Thanks for writing in to us with your question.

You are correct in advising your friend to avoid the area in the center of the table that would obstruct her guests view of each other.

In general that means either a low centerpiece no higher than the length of distance between your elbow to fist or a higher centerpiece but out of sight such as the one you are looking for.

I'm wondering if you have checked the party rental places so that you could possible just rent and not buy the centerpiece stands.

If you could not find the pedestal that you are looking for, they will certainly carry candelabras that you can apply the same flower arranging to.

In any case, you are correct when you advised your friend to stay out of the "conversation zone".

The only thing that I've seen done that doesn't really disrupt the view but also is very pretty is using the tall cylindrical vases, fill them right up with water, add some decorative stone in the bottom and then sink a whole stem of cymbidium orchids in the vase.

The look is very dramatic and very easy to do...just an idea for you.

I'm also wondering if she has the 20 inch glass vases, that you could possibly set a arrangement on top of the glass vase... maybe that would do, but I'm just thinking of the teetering that might go on.

I would really be worried if the arrangements are not sturdy and steady on the table. If the pedestal arrangement are tippy and the tables get knocked, I would hate to see them fall over during the reception...maybe that's another thing you should advise you friend of.

I hope that it helps you out.

Take care and best wishes always,

Diane