Savvy Entertaining

When you are entertaining, place a centerpiece on your table for some added “Wow” factor.

If you are hosting a  formal plated dinner party, remember to keep the centerpiece out of the line of vision across the table. If you are not sure where that line is, sit at the table and look across. You don’t want a mass of  flowers and greens blocking your view of others. For that reason, keep centerpieces low or put on a pedestal above the line of vision. With a long table, you could do a grouping of small bouquets in low containers, interspersed with votives.  Make sure the centerpiece doesn’t take up too much of the dining space if you are using a round table.

If you want to go high with the centerpiece, keep in mind the height of your ceiling. A really tall centerpiece will not work well with a low ceiling or low-hanging chandelier.

For buffet-style entertaining, you have an endless array of choices. Anchor one corner of the table with your centerpiece and make sure it is the highest visual point.

With any type of centerpiece that will be around food, steer away from highly scented florals. They can overpower the food smells and some guests may be bothered by strong scents. Also,  choose florals that don’t “shed.” The last thing you want is a trail of little green fronds floating into your food.

Mirrored trays and candles are nice accents for your centerpiece and create a beautifully finished look. Have fun with your centerpiece – let it be a reflection of you!

To find the votive centerpiece used to create this arrangement, subscribe to my newsletter or click here.