1. Set a small pumpkin in the middle on top of an artificial fall leaf wreath. Tuck in small pumpkins and gourds. We found some gilded Styrofoam pumpkins at a craft store but you could always add your own gold paint or glitter yourself. If you want to add candles to your centerpiece, hollow out the center of a mini pumpkin, scoop out seeds and place a small glass votive holder and candle inside. This arrangement works great on round or long buffet tables.
2. Let your centerpiece also be a favor/treat, which your guests can enjoy during the reception or take home with them. Fill baskets with apples and place on center of table. We used a burlap runner underneath for texture and added a few artificial leaves and berries for color.
3. Use an inexpensive glass vase (thrift stores are a great place to find vases for $1 or under) and wrap with a wide burlap ribbon and tie with jute cord. I used an artificial mum plant and snipped the bulky plastic stem so I could create a tight bouquet. Place bouquet in vase and insert berry stems randomly. Since this is all artificial, you can assemble these centerpieces a few weeks before your wedding. This would be a nice thank you gift for helpers or family members to take home as they leave the reception.
Tips to save! Get a green thumb and plant your own pumpkin seeds next spring so you can use them for your wedding décor and save money. You probably know someone who has an apple tree and would be happy to let you harvest as many apples as you may need for your centerpieces or sliced caramel apple desserts for guests
Check back tomorrow for more centerpiece ideas on a budget!