^{Image Courtesy of Marielle Hayes Photography}

Ideas, Inspiration, and Budget-Friendly Tips

Centerpieces are more than just decorations for your wedding tables—they're conversation starters, memory-makers, and a beautiful expression of your style as a couple. Whether your reception is in a garden, a gym, or a grand ballroom, the right centerpiece can transform your tables into something truly magical.

But where do you begin?

Let’s walk through some wedding centerpiece ideas and options to help you decide what’s right for your style, budget, and venue.

Start with Your Wedding Theme and Colors

Before choosing any centerpiece, consider your wedding colors and overall theme. Are you aiming for rustic charm, elegant romance, modern simplicity, or whimsical fun? Let your theme guide your centerpiece decisions so that everything flows together.

Some LDS brides opt for simple white flowers in clear glass vases, while others go bold with colorful blooms, floating candles, lanterns, or themed accents like books, globes, or seasonal decorations. If you’re using the cultural hall, don’t worry—a stunning centerpiece can transform even the most basic tables!

Floral Wedding Centerpieces

Fresh flowers are a timeless option for wedding centerpieces—and they don’t have to break the bank. You can use:

• Single-stem roses or hydrangeas in slim bud vases

• Clustered blooms in mason jars wrapped with ribbon or twine

• Wildflowers for a more casual, country feel

• Silk flowers or faux arrangements (great for reusing or repurposing)

TIP: Borrow vases from ward members or family to save money. You can even check with the Relief Society or activities committee to see what they have on hand.

Non-Floral Centerpieces That Wow

If fresh flowers aren’t your style—or your budget—there are dozens of creative centerpiece options to explore. Here are just a few ideas:

• Candles in hurricane lamps or floating in bowls of water

• Glass bowls filled with candy, seashells, ornaments, or stones

• Framed engagement photos, scriptures, or favorite quotes

• Tiered trays with mini desserts or cupcakes

• Lanterns, birdcages, or wood slices for a rustic touch

• Books, especially with meaningful titles to you as a couple

Non-floral centerpieces are a great way to express your personality, add variety, and keep costs low.

Keep the Cultural Hall in Mind

If you're decorating a church cultural hall, you already know it takes a little creativity to elevate the space. Consider using:

• Taller centerpieces to add height and elegance to round tables

• Layers of table runners or fabrics under each centerpiece to add depth

• Colorful or themed accents that tie in with your wedding color palette

Try to set up a mock table ahead of time so you can see how the centerpiece works with your linens, chairs, and plates.

How Many Centerpieces Do You Need?

The number of centerpieces you’ll need depends on your guest list and table layout. Remember to plan for:

• Guest tables

• Buffet or dessert tables

• Gift and sign-in table

• Head table or sweetheart table

If you're on a tight budget, it's totally fine to vary your centerpieces so not every table has the exact same design.

Ask Yourself These Planning Questions

Before you finalize your centerpieces, take a moment to consider:

• Can I set this up quickly with help on the big day?

• Will it block guests' view across the table?

• Is it stable or could it tip over easily?

• Does it need water, electricity, or open flame precautions?

• Can it be repurposed (gifted, reused at another event, etc.)?

Simple, elegant, and practical is always a winning combination.

Want More Wedding Centerpiece Ideas?

If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, I’ve got you! My book, Wedding Centerpieces: Transform from Bewildered Bride to Décor Diva, is filled with photos, budget tips, setup ideas, and real examples from LDS receptions just like yours.

Grab your copy here

It’s the perfect guide to help you create beautiful, meaningful centerpieces—without the stress.

Your wedding day will be filled with love and joy. And when your guests gather around those carefully chosen centerpieces, they’ll feel that love reflected in every detail you so thoughtfully prepared.