By Esther Muchene

Have you ever wondered what guests notice first upon arriving at a wedding? Well, if you said dÈcor, then you guessed right.

DÈcor can break or make your theme. Before going for a dÈcor you loved so much at a friend’s wedding or one you saw on TV, it is wise to first take your time and clearly understand the theme you want rather than be branded the unoriginal copycat bride.

Centerpieces

Before settling for the clichÈ roses centerpiece, think about your theme and what you and your partner love. Use this to guide you on coming up with a unique idea.

For example, if you’re having a party theme, you could use wine bottles as centerpieces. Use a tag with your engagement photo; names and wedding date to act as a label then have an intricate flower hang downwards. Complete the look by incorporating small wine or martini glasses filled with coloured water and little umbrellas on the side.

You can also have sliced fruits and vegetables put in clear vases.

Floral arrangements

Go for unique flowers such as sunflowers, gerberas, chrysanthemums and orchids, which add colour and a hint of fun. These flowers are attractive such that you don’t need to do much for a pop out effect. For example, place long stemmed flowers into tall vases with some fillings at the bottom and a bow to finish the look.

For those who don’t like fresh flowers, the florist can work magic with dried flowers. This costs less and there will be no worry of staining the tablecloth or attracting uninvited guests such as bees.

If you are an outdoor lover, incorporate huge or small flowerpots and miniature trees to bring out a garden or park effect. Here anything goes. From live to plastic flowers and trees, depending on how well they are used will look unique. To make it more fun, have your initials spelt out using coloured petals on the walkway where everyone walking in can see.

You can splurge on chandeliers to create a hanging garden effect where flowers can be structured and positioned to look like they are floating. Ivies will work great for this idea.

Lighting

For the evening reception, incorporate fairy lights on the ceiling or walls taking note of the poles as well. Get the lighting done in your colour scheme.

For a party theme under the stars, make use of spotlights in different colours to light up the entire place. For a more disco feel, bring in disco balls and some neon lights.

Lastly, you can also have tikki torches, lamps, lanterns and candles put in simple brown bags held in place with sand, to light up walkways and tables.

Accessories

When it comes to accessories, you are spoilt for choice. Use those that will complement your theme. For example, if you’re having a party theme you can use disco balls, neon lights, ice sculptures filled with beer cans and bottles underneath. Do not forget smoke machines that will cheer the mood on the dance floor.

You could also add decorative pebbles, confetti, butterflies, photo frames with your photo and candles to bring out that particular theme you’re aspiring to achieve.

Lastly, when choosing your centerpiece, have the following in mind:

The size of the table with relation to the centerpiece. You should consider the amount of space your guests will have at the table or it will look crowded.

Avoid elaborate centerpieces especially when the table has been set up with crockery and cutlery. In this case, simply add confetti, glitters and simple flowers.

Consider the height of the centerpiece. Avoid pieces that will block guests’ view of each other.