5 Must-Read Floral Decor Tips

by Anne Chertoff, Posted Sep 3rd 2010 5:00PM

Courtest of David Beahm Design

High or low centerpieces? Long or round tables? These are the tough decisions you and your florist will have to make. No matter what you choose there are some guidelines you should follow to ensure that your centerpieces don't block your guests' view across the table. We asked New York event designer David Beahm for his expert tips on designing floral centerpieces and reception decor. Here's what he had to say:

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5 Must-Read Floral Decor Tips

First impressions are the most important, and typically those details are the last things your guests see as they leave. The escort card table and arrangement set the immediate tone of the celebration and starts to tell your story.

For instance, for Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones' wedding, we created a life-size tree (12' tall by 15' wide) from which the escort cards were hung (alphabetically, of course). An attendant assisted guests in finding their seating assignment and snipped each ribbon with a pair of golden, bird-shaped scissors. Instantly, the guests had another thing to talk about.

11 New Ideas for Displaying Seating Cards

5 Must-Read Floral Decor Tips

When approaching a round table -- height and your guests' sightlines are two important factors. The arrangement either needs to be under 12" in height to facilitate conversation or soar high above the table, leaving guests a clear view of their tablemates.

I think palm fronds are entirely underutilized and create bang for your buck with their feathery leaves hovering above the heads of your guests.

Browse our Floral Centerpiece Gallery

5 Must-Read Floral Decor Tips

A high design facilitates a "wow" factor as guests enter the room -- but what's equally as important is what that piece looks like to your guests as they sit at the table.

The underside of the arrangement; the dressing of the structure and the decor at eye level all comprise a successful arrangement – sitting under an umbrella-style canopy of floral is always a thrill.

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5 Must-Read Floral Decor Tips

Heaven is in the details -- consider every space that your guest will experience, including the restrooms. A small, thoughtful arrangement in the ladies room accompanied by a scented candle and amenities baskets let your guest know that their comfort and enjoyment has been thought through.

And should you like, we have completely upholstered a restroom in flora and foliage, creating a whimsical Garden of Eden (complete with reflexologists) in the most utilitarian place.

5 Must-Read Floral Decor Tips

A glistening river of clear glassware proceeding down the center of the table makes for a fabulous look. Each vessel is filled with water and a botanical element.

Connecting the display into a single arrangement are malleable floral elements such as bear grass, tulips or miniature calla lilies that "dance" from vessel to vessel. The entire look is punctuated by a plethora of flickering votive candles.

For height -- if needed -- the look can be augmented by a duo or trio of tall arrangements and a series of tall decorative candles.

Browse our Reception Decor Gallery

5 Must-Read Floral Decor Tips

Tags: centerpiece, centerpiece ideas, David Beahm, florist, wedding flowers