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Table Flower Arrangement Ideas

Finding the perfect flowers for a table can be a challenge. For a dinner or coffee table, the arrangement needs to hold visual interest from all angles, and many floral arrangements are designed with a clear front and back, meaning guests sitting on the opposite side don't get to enjoy the beauty. To avoid these pitfalls, consider all-around arrangements with focal points on all sides.
  1. Bouquets

    • Simple bouquets in a favorite vase create a conversation piece for the table.

      Flower bouquets in a statement vase are great for any table. When finding the right bouquet, look for one with a focal flower (an eye-catching bloom) visible from any angle and without "holes" - areas that lack fullness, creating awkward empty patches from certain angles.

      The bouquet and vase should also match the table's size. An oversized bouquet on a small table will severely block sight lines. A tiny bouquet on a grand dining table will look understated.

    Low Centerpieces

    • Centerpieces like this are created in a foam that keeps the flowers fresh.

      Particularly great for dining room tables, low centerpieces offer visual interest without blocking any views for guests around the table. When looking for a low centerpiece, try to match the shape and dimensions of the table - a round table calls for a round centerpiece, a rectangular table calls for a rectangular centerpiece (or multiple round pieces placed in a row), and a square table calls for a square or round centerpiece.

      A good rule of thumb when selecting the size of a centerpiece is to use a quarter of the dimensions of the table. For example, if a round table is 24 inches in diameter, the diameter of the centerpiece should be approximately 6 inches. This leaves enough room for dinnerware when necessary but is also a proven aesthetically-pleasing ratio.

      Although centerpieces are usually made with floral foam that provides water and nutrients, they still need to be watered regularly. Water the centerpiece about halfway up the floral foam to keep it moist.

    Flower Baskets or Flowering Plant Baskets

    • Baskets are a great alternative to traditional floral centerpieces.

      Baskets with low handles and wide mouths are excellent for tables. They offer a different look and feel since they can incorporate green plants and flowers, like hydrangeas and violets, that normally aren't included in bouquets and centerpieces. Because baskets can house an entire plant as opposed to simple cut flowers, they are also long-lasting.

      Remember to use a liner with any plant or flower basket to avoid water leakage onto the surface of the table. Also take care to ensure that the bottom of the basket is smooth and won't scratch the table's finish. If needed, use a cloth to protect against scratches and scrapes.