Decorate from the ground up starting with the furniture and linen.
Aside from the wardrobe and venue, floral arrangements will likely get the largest comment at your wedding. Select centerpieces that create the atmosphere you desire. For a Hawaiian wedding, you may draw inspiration from the cultural traditions of the island people, the surrounding natural beauty, or the stylized image of Hawaii portrayed by popular media.
Flowers
Utilize the temperate Hawaiian atmosphere to fulfill your flowery fantasies. Indoors or outdoors your blooms will enjoy a mild breeze and indirect sunlight -- promoting color retention and moisture -- so you don't have to worry about droopy displays. Consider using anemone, orchids, hydrangeas, crown flowers, pikake or plumeria. Carnations are inexpensive additions to your wedding centerpiece that can add depth and color as well as durability. Yellow hibiscus is the official state flower. Rather than place cut flowers in a vase, consider using a plant pot or bowl. You can even wrap the vase in a paper bag for a casual wedding. Surround your display with maile sprigs, ti leaves and kukui nuts to match the groom's lei.
Beachcomber Centerpieces
If budget constraints are a concern, take a walk on the beach. Collect a mixture of organic and inorganic materials to compose tabletop beaches. Fill a shallow container such as a candy dish with sand. Arrange found objects in the sand as desired. Consider including a miniature set of Japanese sand garden, or karesansui, tools. Be sure to wash all objects thoroughly.
Candles
Set the mood for a sunset wedding reception with candles. If hosting an outdoor celebration, always consider the strength of the evening breeze. Thins or taper candles may prove a fire hazard. Use thick pillar candles or enclosed light fixtures such as votive candles in a hurricane vase. Incorporate mirrors or water in the design to enhance the luminescence. Experiment with submerged objects; for example, affix a blossom to the bottom of a crystal bowl and float a votive on the surface of the water.
Takeaway Centerpieces
Leis, mini bouquets and betta fish may all be used in centerpieces that double as party favors. Pile leis in the center of the table or arrange flowers in small portable sections to make their purpose clear. Invite guests to take the centerpieces home or, if supply is short, hold a contest to see who wins each item. If giving out leis, be sure to inform guests before the meal is complete to allow them a few hours of use before the reception ends.
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