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The centerpieces for each table at your wedding reception will play a major role in setting the tone and style of your wedding. They will be a major focal point for your guests while they are eating their meal, and spectacular or unique centerpieces can add an element of sophistication or surprise to your event.

Flowers are the most established and expected centerpiece. There are literally hundreds of floral centerpiece designs, from tall lilies to tightly packed roses.

When planning a wedding on a tight budget, its important to shop around and check out wedding supply shops and online specialists to get a sense for centerpiece possibilities and pricing. Keep in mind that you will need a centerpiece for every table, so it could get expensive if you are planning to invite a large guest list.

Following are money saving tips for creating affordable centerpieces:

Buy flowers from a wholesaler. For a cheaper option, buy the flowers yourself from a wholesaler, and produce simple displays such as six tulips in a glass vase. You could also use the bridesmaids bouquets as centerpieces to really get the best value out of them.

Use potted plants. Instead of fresh cut flowers, consider using potted plants as centerpieces. Consider decorating terracotta pots and pick plants that flower in co-coordinating colors to your scheme. These centerpieces will last long after the day has finished, and provide a lovely gift for those you would like to give them to.

Consider candles. Candles are popular alternatives to floral centerpieces. Candles are a wonderful way of creating an air of romance and enchantment for your wedding, and look particularly effective if your venue is dimly lit. However, if you plan to hold your reception in the afternoon, with plenty of natural daylight, candles may not produce the appropriate dramatic effect. Placing candelabras on each table adds an elegant look. Or, consider the less formal appearance of floating candles in a large glass bowl. Ensure that any holders or bowls you use are heat-resistant, and check with your venue for any restrictions they may have on the use of candles.

Decorate with food. Fruit is a nice and decorative choice, and can also be eaten later in the evening! Other edible choices include candy, chocolate lollipops or Hersheys Kisses. Use your imagination to display whatever treats you choose in an exciting way, using glitter, streamers or balloons.

Choose a theme. Choosing a wedding theme often makes it easier to decorate your wedding reception venue. For example, affordable centerpieces for a beach theme could involve filling glass bowls with seashells, placing an assortment of tropical fruit in the middle of the table, use small potted palm trees, or fish bowls with brightly colored fish.

Add a personal touch. You can be as original as you like when it comes to your centerpieces. Consider choosing something personal such as hand-written poems or family photographs in ornate picture frames.

Use your creativity to find affordable centerpieces. The more unique centerpieces often create fun discussion points for your wedding guests.

Hilary Basile is a writer for MyGuidesUSA.com. At MyGuidesUSA.com (http://www.myguidesusa.com), you will find valuable tips and resources for handling lifes major events. Whether youre planning a wedding, buying your first home, anxiously awaiting the birth of a child, contending with a divorce, searching for a new job, or planning for your retirement, youll find answers to your questions at MyGuidesUSA.com. Find wedding planning tips and resources at http://www.myguidesusa.com/weddings

// posted by wgvx @ 11:31 PM