- For a simple, elegant look, rent free-standing, triple-armed silver candelabras (inexpensive, available at most party rental outlets) and make floral rings to decorate the candle bases. All the supplies for making the rings—including plastic bases, florist's foam, fabric flowers, and trimmings such as ribbons and pearl sprays—are available at craft supply stores.
- Place a bouquet of helium-filled balloons in the centre of each table. Tie the balloon strings to a weight placed inside a large, clean juice can covered with fabric or paper. Tie to the balloon knots extra lengths of curled ribbons that stream down to the table.
- For a dramatic look, cover calla lilies and curly willow branches with gold spray paint. Arrange three or five gilded lilies and a few branches in a glass vase, then fill the vase with clear marbles to keep the stalks in place. A less expensive alternative to marbles is clear plastic wrap, loosely crinkled and stuffed into the vase; the glistening result is surprisingly glamorous.
- Float large Casablanca lily blossoms in wide, shallow glass bowls. For extra pizzazz, line the bottom of the bowls with glass marbles before filling with water.
- For a tongue-in-cheek approach, fill black plastic top hats (available at costume supply stores and seasonally at gift card shops) with white carnations and baby's breath. Tape florist's foam, available at craft supply stores, inside each hat for ease in arranging the flowers. Arrange a collection of five-and-dime bride-and-groom cake toppers around each hat.
- For a country garden wedding, try painting inexpensive wicker baskets white and fill with small pots of living flowers. Stuff the holes between pots with greenery from your garden. Finish each basket with ribbons tied on the handles. Attach a toy butterfly to the bows. At the end of the reception, allow each guest to take a pot home as a keepsake.
- Create funky one-of-a-kind centrepieces from your own collection of vases, candleholders, figurines and memorabilia. Adorn each table with a grouping of pieces, filled with candles and tiny pots of living herbs and flowers.
