Non-Floral Wedding Centerpieces: Tuscan Decor on a Budget

You can re-create the rustic feel of Tuscany without breaking your budget. With a bit of planning and time management a DIY bride (with the help of family and friends) can create a personalized reception, with a hand-made touch, without sacrificing quality or elegance.

This centerpiece is both functional and decorative. Placed at the center of each guest table, the slate pieces will be used for a presentation of cheeses, grapes, olives, prosciutto, sliced baguettes and breadsticks. As guests arrive to the reception they'll have an antipasto display to dine upon while waiting for the bridal party to arrive.

To make the rustic centerpieces, you'll be using natural materials:
Slate - found at a landscaping supply store
Terra Cotta Pots (in various heights) - found at craft stores
Terra Cotta Saucers - found at craft stores
Gold Paint - found at craft stores
Light Green Paint - found at craft stores
Spanish Moss - found at craft stores
Hot Glue Gun & Glue Sticks - found at craft stores

Take the following steps to assemble:
When selecting slate, choose pieces that are as flat as possible and on the larger side.
Paint a clear varnish on the slate; paint well in advance so that varnish has an opportunity to thoroughly cure.
Using the gold and light green paint, roughly mix and lightly brush onto terra cotta pots to create a patina.
Randomly glue Spanish moss to the terra cotta pots.
Also glue Spanish moss around the bottom perimeter of the terra cotta saucers.

Voila! You're done - easy, beautiful and functional centerpieces.

Place hors d'oeuvres in abundance to create a lush presentation. Grapes, cubed cheeses, and prosciutto can be placed at the center of your slate. Use the terra cotta saucers for olives and marinated cheeses. The taller terra cotta pots will hold the breadsticks while the shorter pots will hold sliced baguettes and crackers.

To continue the Tuscan theme throughout your reception, layer your tablecloths with colors and textures. Use a white, floor-length, round, linen tablecloth and top with a square tablecloth of burlap. Cluster candles around to add ambient light. Continue to think of items that evoke Tuscany: wrought iron, natural/raw/rustic textures, fresh greenery such as trees and shrubs, etc. Use creative ways to incorporate those elements into your décor. Don't be afraid to think outside of the box and use traditional items in non-traditional ways. You're guests will be commenting on your creativity and presentation for years to come!