You know how the story goes: your sister’s had peonies, your cousin’s had lilies, and your mom’s probably had roses. And while using florals in your wedding centerpieces is a rule nearly written in stone in the bridal Bible, there are countless ways to create the perfect table setting without using any pesky petals. Whether you’re an eco-friendly fiancée or just looking for the latest and greatest décor, here are 17 alternatives to the classic floral centerpiece that will certainly get your tables talking. 

1. Metal Lanterns

Make sure your guests can admire every minute detail of your tables even after the sun goes down! Whether they’re of a vintage model or a minimalist glass, this simple addition to the spread adds a gorgeous glow to any arrangement while minimizing the heat that would emit from an open flame. 

Larissa Cleveland

Onelove Photography

2. Succulents

Among other things, 2017 was definitely the year of the succulent. These desert divas have much more potential than acting as your favorite desk accessory. Pairing their rich greens and subtle pops of blue and violet, these tiny plants can add a natural charm to just about any table setting.

Milou and Olin Photography

Penelope L\'Amore Photography

3. Food

Make your wedding day the one exception to that whole “don’t play with your food” rule! Take inspiration from seasonal fruits and veggies, like the deep hues of a hearty artichoke or the bold pink of a pomegranate, to add something completely organic to your centerpieces.

Clayton Austin Photography

Sorella Muse Photography

4. Driftwood

A must-try for any beach wedding! Let the ocean do the work for you by collecting pieces of natural driftwood and transforming them into a table-topper that your guests will track you down to find the Pin for.

Lexia Frank Photography

Yvette Roman Photography

5. Old Leather-bound Books

Find elegance in the past by dusting off a few of your favorite classics and sprucing them up as a new centerpiece. By bounding them in ribbon or encasing them in glass, you’re sure to find fairytale-worthy happiness with this unique addition to the table.

Emily Link Photography

Susannah Gill Photography

6. Palms

Yes, they’re not just for Sunday or Hawaiian vacations. Place these trendy leaves in an intricate vase or let them free-float in water to showcase the stunning green hues that make them so coveted.

Elaine Palladino Photography

Our Labor of Love Photography

7. Candelabra

Give your tables a splash of European class by placing one of these in front of your guests. The multi-pronged light will remind your guests of the historical romances that the shape is iconic to.

Marissa Kay Photography

Ryan Zarichnak Photography

8. Floating Candle

Treat your guests to a real light show by placing your décor in water. The reflection of the flame will act as your mood lighting, bringing a lovely ambiance to the table and, more importantly, your night.

Candy Cake Weddings

Christian Oth Studios

9. Wine Bottle Lanterns

For the crafty bride, this is the ultimate DIY. Instantly, turn your favorite bottle of vino into a rustic lantern by filling it with decorative lighting or a single flame candlestick. After all, what’s a wedding without a little wine and candlelight?

Lights and Decor

Pretty Designs

10. Fairy Lights

While we all know that only a true fairy can produce the best fairy lights, we will settle for replicating their handywork with this Pinterest favorite. By placing mini-LED’s into your choice of medium (perhaps mason jars, wooden yard balls, or glass casings), your guests are sure to be mesmerized by the enchanting appeal of these tiny centerpieces.

Frugal 2 Fab Blog

Moncheri Bridals

11. Live Fish

Whether they’re of the gold or Beta variety, this fun and interactive décor is an interesting addition to any table scheme. Bonus points: put a few of these at the kids table and watch their faces glow with intrigue! 

Deer Pearl Flowers

Stockphotos

12. Wine Corks

Take any vineyard wedding to the next level by swapping petals for corks! Remind your guests to relax and enjoy a nice glass of red or white by integrating these into your centerpieces or table numbers.

Betsi Ewing Photography

Hampton Morrow Photography

13. Geodes

You don’t have to be a geologist to appreciate the gorgeous colors found in these crystalized gems. Just like your wedding, these crystalized centerpieces are one-of-a-kind and worth treasuring for a lifetime.

Hi Miss Puff Blog

Lauren Pretorius Photography

14. Birdcage

Your guests will go cuckoo if you consider placing this bridal staple on your tables. Small embellishments like moss-covered monograms and details of flora and fauna can quickly enhance this centerpiece from functional to fabulous.

Cedarwood Weddings By Jen and Chris Creed

Styled Shoot Photography

15. Vintage Objects

It’s all about restoration when it comes to using these authentic antiques to add a little charm to your tables on your big day. Knick-knacks like Victorian teapots and gas lamps tie in beautifully with lace-focused and vintage-styled nuptials, making your guests feel like they just stepped back in time to watch you take your vows.

Alexan Events

Confetti Blog

16. Seasonal Foliage

Tis’ the season to use what’s around you! Whether you’re saying “I do” on a beach in July, an apple orchard in October, or on the North Pole with Santa and Co., take inspiration from the scenery and replace those flowers with natural substitutes that will make your centerpieces unique to your day.

Deer Pearl Flowers

Hi Miss Puff Blog

17. Faux Florals

If the show absolutely, positively cannot go on without some florals at on your big day, consider imposters like flowers made of newspaper, tissue paper, or the pages of an old book. Regardless of how they’re made, they’ll add a certain amount of individuality to your tables and leave guests wondering “How did she do that?”.

Purl Bee Blog

Scrappunchino