We all want our holiday tables to bring cheer and style, but are often put off by the potential expense and concerns that the task may be too daunting. But don’t fret! I’ve come up with four centerpiece ideas that will hopefully inspire you to get creative and think outside the standard flower and candles box. They are economical too -- everything here has a use long after the party is over!
Centerpiece 1: Winter Wonderland
What you’ll need:
- Antique Mirrored placemat from Z Gallerie ($119 for set of 4)
- Mercury votives from Ballard Designs ($12.99-$19.99)
- Mercury Vase from Home Goods ($19.99)
- Trees from J.Seitz ($24 each)
- Antelope statue from Dwell in white ($25)
Be sure to anchor your piece to something like a place mat or tray, use height to create drama and fill in the different levels to create visual dimension. Mix like-minded textures and colors like mercury and white for an elegant festive feel that's not too holiday.
Centerpiece 2: Sophisticated Kids’ Table
What you’ll need:
- Tray from C Wonder ($78)
- Good Luck Trolls from Urban Outfitters ($8)
- Gummy Bear lights from Urban Outfitters ($30)
- Mercury glass votive holder from One Kings Lane ($25 for 4)
- Classic Marbles from Restoration Hardware ($9.49)
- Children's Card Games form Restoration Hardware ($10.49)
Why should the grownups have all the fun? Keep the kids table creative with interactive components that are stylish and keep the kids occupied until the food arrives (and after)! They'll appreciate the colors and whimsy, plus each guest may choose something to take home. (Moms will love to reuse the votives!) Have your kids get involved and help you assemble -- they'll respect the final creation more!
Centerpiece 3: Botanical
What you’ll need:
- Runner from Anthropologie ($88)
- Metallic cracked herb pots in gold from Anthropologie ($14)
- Capiz bowl from Z Gallerie ($79.95)
- Log Vases from West Elm ($19)
Sometimes the most beautiful way to ring in the New Year is by showcasing what nature provides: elegant flowers combined with natural textures and shapes. As a base, put a runner down first and keep it simple, allowing the beauty of the bowl to set the tone. I balanced out the low pots, which make great guest gifts, with the higher log vases filled with white tulips. White is elegant and looks great paired with wood as it dresses it up.
Centerpiece 4: New Year’s Guest Gift
What you’ll need:
- Happy 2013 monogrammed tray from Mark and Graham ($50)
- Monogrammed hexagonal Mint Julep Cups from Mark and Graham ($25)
- Frames from Z Gallerie ($13.49)
What a better way to ring in the New Year than by giving your guests a token of your appreciation and a memento from the special evening straight from the centerpiece. The monogramed julep cups are perfect keepsakes for guests and the monogrammed tray with year is a great way, as a host, to remember it too!
