Your Guide to Finding the Ideal Centrepiece
- donnabatson
- Jul 21
- 5 min read
The Secret to a Show-Stopping Centrepiece
The centrepiece isn’t just a pretty detail – it’s the visual anchor of your table and sets the tone for your entire event. Whether you’re planning a wedding, birthday, or corporate celebration, the right design brings cohesion, elegance, and personality to your space.
This guide will help you choose a centrepiece that complements your style, suits your venue, and transforms your table into something truly unforgettable.
1. Start with the Table
The shape and size of your table matter. For long rectangular tables, consider:
Multiple smaller arrangements spaced evenly
A floral or greenery runner with interspersed candles
Round or square tables work well with a single, bold, symmetrical display.
Tip: Always allow enough room for tableware, food, and drinks – your centrepiece should enhance the setting, not overwhelm it.
2. Match Your Theme & Mood
A rustic design might feel out of place at a black-tie affair. Think about the overall theme of your event and let that guide your centrepiece choices.
Style Your Centrepiece by Theme & Budget:
At Classy Parties, we believe stunning centrepieces shouldn’t come with a hefty price tag. That’s why we offer a wide range of decor options — from simple glass vases and candles to elaborate floral displays — so you can bring your vision to life no matter your budget. Whether you're planning a small celebration or a grand affair, we’ll help you find the perfect pieces to suit your style and your spend.
Modern
Geometric stands & sleek lanterns
Contemporary candelabras with LED taper candles
Clear glass vases or cylinder vases with clean lines
White & cream artificial flowers with a bold pop of colour
Mirrored bases, tealight holders, and LED pillar candles
Minimalist table runners and modern chair sashes to complement
Romantic
Soft silk florals in blush, ivory, or champagne tones
Gold martini vases & matching accessories
Gold geometric stands with large floral displays
Birdcages, bud vases, and vintage-style lanterns
Mirrored bases, ornate candleholders, and LED tea lights
Add coloured roses to match your bridesmaids’ dresses or theme
Rustic
Log slices and hessian table runners
Faux greenery garlands and eucalyptus stems
Birdcages and lanterns with flickering LED candles
Bud vases, wooden candle holders, and natural textures
Add jute-wrapped jars or glass bottles for extra charm
Tie in soft-toned chair sashes or dried floral accents
Boho
Pampas grass, bunny tails & dried flower accents
Gold, rattan, or wood-style candleholders
Earthy-toned cheesecloth or organza table runners in terracotta or blush
Mixed-height vases with LED pillar or taper candles
Bud vases, amber glassware, and neutral-coloured chair sashes
Tip: Whether you’re using fresh flowers or high-quality artificial designs, build your look with accessories that reflect your theme and create atmosphere from top table to aisle.
3. Set the Tone with Colour
Your centrepiece should harmonise with your event’s colour palette. Whether you're echoing key tones or introducing complementary shades, be intentional with your choices.
Browse our coloured artificial roses to find the perfect match for your theme.
Pro Tip: Use neutral base florals and highlight your main colour with candles, foliage, or accent flowers for a balanced, timeless look.
4. Tell a Story with the Details
Personal or seasonal touches add depth and charm. Consider:
Winter: Rich reds, forest greens, pinecones, berries, fairy lights
Spring: Pastels, tulips, daffodils, ribbons, soft greenery
Summer: Citrus hues, herbs, woven textures, glass vases
Autumn: Burnt orange, pampas, amber glass, mini pumpkins
These looks can be created using fresh or artificial elements depending on your budget, venue, and preferences.
5. Fresh, Faux – or Both?
Both fresh and artificial flowers have their perks:
Fresh: Natural scent, organic beauty, seasonality
Artificial: Longer lasting, consistent colour, allergy-friendly, more colour options
At Classy Parties, you can:
Hire our fully styled artificial centrepieces
Use your own fresh flowers with our dry-hire vases
Mix both for maximum impact and flexibility
Why not mix and match? Use fresh bouquets for key moments and style tables with lifelike silk centrepieces – most guests won’t even notice the difference.
Classy Parties Styling Tip:
Repurpose your bridesmaids' bouquets as table decor. Pop them into our vases and you're done – a clever way to stretch your budget while keeping everything beautifully coordinated. These bouquets can also be used around the venue for extra decorative impact — place them on the cake table, gift or guestbook table, ceremony signing table, bar area, or windowsills. It’s a simple, elegant way to get the most out of your flowers and tie your whole look together.
6. Make a Statement (Without Blocking the View)
Tall arrangements can add drama – but choose slim stands or vases that allow guests to see through. Low, lush florals bring intimacy without obstructing sight lines.
Balance is key: Go tall for impact or low for conversation-friendly settings, depending on your space and layout.
7. Consider Practicalities
Before you commit, think about:
Venue decor and lighting
Indoor vs outdoor setting
Event duration and timing
Fresh flower lifespan vs artificial durability
Candle policy (open flame vs LED)
LED candles are an ideal alternative for venues that don’t allow open flames. They provide that romantic glow without the mess or fire risk.
Explore our blog on LED candle ideas
Centrepiece Ideas by Occasion
Weddings: Floral centrepieces, statement stands and candelabras, greenery runners, and matching backdrops for the top table or ceremony.
Dinner Parties: Medium-sized vases with soft florals and candle clusters for an intimate, elegant setting.
Corporate Events: Faux florals in brand colours, sleek styling, and practical designs that stay fresh-looking all day.
Birthdays: Small floral centrepieces, vases with LED lights or floating candles, helium balloons displayed in lanterns, birdcages, or weighted vases.
Themed Events: Vintage, rustic, romantic, or seasonal styling using log slices, pampas grass, coloured roses, antique-style lanterns, and other customisable props to match your event’s mood and palette.
Balloon Styling Tip: Drop balloon weights into decorative vases to transform basic bunches into beautiful, elevated decor. Add LED floating candles, acrylic stones, or fairy lights for a magical touch.
Final Thoughts
The perfect centrepiece strikes a balance between beauty and function. It enhances your table, complements your theme, and reflects your personality.
Whether you prefer fresh florals, lifelike artificial blooms, or a mix of both, Classy Parties is here to help you create a look that's as memorable as your celebration.
Most importantly: Let your style shine. The most show-stopping centrepieces are the ones that feel true to you.
Centrepiece Planning Checklist
✅ Know your table shape and size
✅ Choose a colour scheme and theme
✅ Fresh, faux, or a mix?
✅ Pick the right height for the venue
✅ Add seasonal or personal details
✅ Include lighting (candles, LEDs)
✅ Plan for stability and set-up
✅ Check it from every angle!
💌 Need help choosing your centrepieces?
From simple candle arrangements to grand floral displays, we have centrepieces to suit every style and budget.
Get in touch with Classy Parties for personalised styling advice and affordable hire options across West Sussex and Hampshire.
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