Quick and Easy Spring Centerpieces

by: Melanie Jeffers Frassinelli

The reward of making it through another winter is the prolific beauty of spring flowers. From crocus to lilacs, spring flowers provide countless options for simple and often inexpensive centerpieces.

Check out your local nursery or florist for their selections of blooming bulbs. A 6" or 8" pot of tulips, hyacinth or daffodils placed in a decorative basket or foil is all you need for a cheerful focal point for your table. You can elaborate on the theme by surrounding the plant with smaller pots of plants to be given as favors.

Votive candle holders come in many shapes. Find one that mimics the shape of your flowers and add an appropriate color candle. For an elegant look, choose a candle in the same color palette as the flower. For a fun, less formal look, pick contrasting colors.

Hydrangea is another potted plant that would make a lovely centerpiece. It is available in blue, lavender, pink and white. Float a cloud of tulle around the pot and add pale-colored votive candles in bubble glass holders (to ensure tulle does not come in contact with flame).

If you are lucky enough to have spring flowering bushes and trees on your property, or know someone willing to share, a little effort can yield beautiful, inexpensive flower arrangements. A couple of blooms of lilac or branches of forsythia in a vase are all that are needed for a centerpiece.

Of course, you can get as elaborate as your imagination and supply allow. Make sure you have a back up plan, as weather conditions can make this a risky option. Blooming times can be variable and a cold snap could thwart a harvest.

Use these suggestions to customize a special spring theme for your wedding. Your florist or local nursery can help you explore other ideas.