DIY Guide to Winter Wedding Centerpieces

Everyone knows that the cost of wedding has skyrocketed over the last several years. However, now, perhaps partially due to the effects of the current economic crisis, more and more people are cutting back on some of their wedding extravagances. This guide offers suggestions on do it yourself winter wedding centerpieces that will look great for minimum money, leaving more to spend on that all too important honeymoon!

First, when constructing a winter wedding centerpiece you can't go wrong with the following: candles, glass bowls or plates, wicker basket, pine cones, fruit like berries, pomegranates, berries, and apples (which doesn't necessarily have to be real), and ribbon. Combine a few of those and you'll have an elegant, seasonal centerpiece. Plus, I know for a fact that all of these are available at local dollar stores, which means each centerpiece will cost around $10. If you're planning a winter wedding for the following year and hit the after Christmas sales you'll save even more!

To make my personal favorite winter centerpiece you'll need a small decorative crate similar to this one, craft foam, and your favorite fruit (real or plastic) of a winter color, like apples, pomegranates, or berries. Depending on your budget you will probably want to buy plastic fruit since it's not only cheaper, but since it won't spoil it will allow you to make them ahead of time. Cut the foam to fit the size of the box, though a couple of inches shorter. Then place your fruit inside the box, either one kind or a mix. The foam in the box will take up enough space so that you only have to place one layer of decorations instead of filling an entire box that no one will see. If you don't like the idea of a predominantly red centerpiece you can replace the fruit with Christmas balls of whatever color you prefer. You can even tie ribbons to the box that attach to your guests' place cards.

Another centerpiece suggestion involves a large glass plate, candles, and pinecones. Place a few candles of varying sizes and colors in the center of your plate and garnish it with pinecones. Adding a few flowers or pieces of fruit are also a great, colorful touch. Just make sure that if you're planning to light the candles (if you're planning an evening reception) that anything flammable is kept away from the flames. If you're using long, tapered candles keep them in stable holders.

All in all, if you're planning to save a few dollars on your winter wedding reception, making your own centerpieces are one of the easiest, most creative, and least expensive ways to go. Always remember that you can't go wrong with candles and flowers. Just use your imagination and the sky is the limit!