How to Add the Perfect Table 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 dining room table complete with perfectly arranged place settings and perhaps some fresh flowers. 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. We're going to help you orchestrate the most beautiful table rustic centerpiece...ever!

Whether your goal is to have a simple farmhouse dining room table or to have your dinner table centerpiece make a statement, we have some simple tips to make sure you create a winsome centerpiece. Choosing a Pinterest DIY or having your centerpiece professionally created (e.g. Etsy), will still require a little bit of thought and pre-planning. The following tips pertain to a gorgeous centerpiece that will be the focal point of your entire dining room.

Important Things to Consider

Dining Room Table Shape & Size

The first thing to determine is the number of tables that need a centerpiece, as well as the shape and size of each dining table. For the sake of simplicity, let’s focus on one dining 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 a round or a square table centerpiece 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 down the length of your table between seats where guests on opposite sides won’t have to contend with an obstructed view.

Lighting

Add visual charm by making candles or electronically lighted foliage the focal point of your centerpiece. Alternatively, include some simple white candles to warm the ambiance of a dimly lit room.
For bright rooms or rooms with fluorescent lighting, a mostly white (or pastel-themed) centerpiece with a few pops of color is best. Perhaps adding a floral arrangement will bring some color to the brighter dining room.

Dining Room Centerpiece Ideas

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 for the dining table….

Clear any clutter from the dining table to make the centerpiece shine!
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 want to incorporate some raw nature, everything from backyard pine branches and cones (learn how to remove unwanted sap here) to fresh summer greenery and fresh flowers will add so much beauty to the décor of your home.
For those guests who may have pollen allergies, plan to include more foliage than flowers or even realistic-looking faux flowers.

Keeping the above-listed tips in mind when selecting your centerpiece will help stave off some avoidable decoration faux pas. The best (and most fun) part about this process is trying out different dining room table décor and table centerpiece ideas that speak to your heart. It's all up to you, we just wanted to provide some simple etiquette before starting. There is, unmistakably, a superabundance of ideas for any table, and I feel confident you’ll choose just the right one for your table setting.

Find More Dining Decor Inspiration

Want more dining table decorating ideas? Check out our other blog posts on decorating a spring and summer, as well as setting a table for entertaining. You'll find plenty of inspiration for hosting your next event!