Adding the Perfect Centerpiece

So it’s your turn to host this year’s big get together. After your initial gasp of hysteria, you assure yourself, I. CAN. DO. THIS. You imagine all the possibilities of an exquisitely adorned dinner table complete with perfectly arranged  place settings and coordinating decor. Everything is extremely well-designed -- so much so that even your chronically critical Aunt Clara is mesmerized by its allure.

Now, come back to the present so we can get started.

Whether your goal is simplicity or elegance, your heart's desire is to include a winsome centerpiece...the Ta-da! of the table. Choosing a  Pinterest DIY or having your centerpiece professionally created (e.g. Etsy), will still require a little bit of thought and pre-planning which should result in warding off any unsolicited objections. The following tips pertain to a centerpiece that will be the focal point of your table before, during, and after the meal is served. But some of these hints are non-issues if you’re planning to remove the decor before dining.

Important Things to Consider
Table Shape & Size

The first thing to determine is the number of tables needing a centerpiece as well as the shape and size of each. For the sake of simplicity, let’s focus on one table and, therefore, one centerpiece. But keep these thoughts in mind for each additional table:

• Round table centerpieces should preferably be round but, more importantly,  attractive from all angles.

• A  square table  can accommodate either round or square centerpieces but, just as with the round table, centerpieces should be  attractive from all angles.

• Rectangular and/or oval tables will require an elongated centerpiece or multiple centerpieces. (A variety of heights can add an interesting effect and allow you to be a little more creative.)
• To prevent the inevitable neck-craning and seat wiggling of your guests,
• limit the centerpiece height to no taller than the tallest glass (e.g., wine or drinking), or
• use slender vases with the bulk of the centerpiece higher than eye level, or
• place centerpieces at intervals along your table between seats where guests on opposite sides of the table won’t need to contend with an obstructed view 

Lighting

• Add visual charm by making candles or electronically-lighted foliage the focal point of your centerpiece or, minimally, include them to warm the ambiance of a dimly-lighted room.

• For bright rooms or rooms with fluorescent lighting, a mostly white- or pastel-themed centerpiece with a few pops of color are best. 

Theme

Unless you’re celebrating a holiday or special occasion with its own color scheme, you may not have a specific theme in mind. Some things to consider….

• Be confident in incorporating your own personal style and color preferences instead of going with the latest trends as you make selections for your unique centerpiece design.

• If you’re leaning towards bringing in a bit of God’s nature, everything from backyard pine branches and cones (learn  how to remove unwanted sap here) to  fresh summer greenery and flowers will add so much beauty to the decor of your home.
• For those guests who may have pollen allergies, plan to include more foliage than flowers.

Keeping the above-listed tips in mind when selecting your centerpiece will help stave off some avoidable decoration faux pas. Determine to enjoy the adventure as you explore the different decorating options available to you. There is, unmistakably, a superabundance of ideas for any table, and I feel confident you’ll choose just the right one for yours.