1970s Style Table Centerpieces

Fondue Pot

• Pick up a harvest gold or avocado green fondue pot and give it a place of prominence in the center of the dining room table. Serve up melted cheeses and bread squares or dipping chocolate and fruit. To really get guests mingling, set up several types of fondue at different tables. Not in the mood for fondue? For a different twist, fill a vintage fondue pot with water, insert a floral frog and arrange a far-out floral centerpiece.

Disco Ball

• What 1970s-themed table would be complete without a mirrored disco ball? Source party rental stores for a disco ball, or purchase one at a second-hand shop specializing in items from the decade. Place it in the center of the table as an instant conversation starter.

Smiley Face

• Brighten a buffet or dining table with a cardboard cutout of this ubiquitous symbol of the 1970s. Cut out a large cardboard circle and create a base with two rectangular pieces of cardboard. Fold the base pieces in half and glue one on each side of the cardboard cutout for support. Paint the circle bright yellow and add the familiar grin and eyes with a black marker. For a birthday party, bake a round layer cake and decorate with yellow and black icing to recreate the well-known smiley face.

Ceramic Owl Collection

• Owls, a popular design trend from the 1970s, make a wise choice for a decade-centric centerpiece. Go in search of ceramic owls of all shapes and sizes at local antique malls and thrift stores. An eclectic grouping of these feathered critters will look right at home as a centerpiece in a retro-inspired space.

Lava Lamp

• Add mood lighting to a room and make a definite 1970s statement by placing an iconic lava lamp in the center of the table. While lamps may not be the first choice for a centerpiece, the lava lamp's place of importance in the design world makes it a natural for a 1970s party. Lava lamp reproductions are available from novelty shops and a variety of retailers. Avoid the hassle of electrical cords by purchasing an inexpensive cardboard lava lamp from a party supply store.