Decorating the Pavilion

One of the most common questions I get is, What are some ways to decorate the pavilion?

Good question.

I've seen about 150 different weddings, and I'm always surprised at the creativity I see from brides (and some grooms) and wedding coordinators when coming up with ideas on how to take our blank canvass and make it something wonderful.

One of the simplest, most appealing techniques I've seen is to take a tall, stem vase (there's probably some fancy, more accurate term) and fill it with colorful, tall stems like lillies and birds of paradise and other colorful, flamboyant flowers.  The overall height of the arrangement is about 3-4 feet and reaches near the ceiling when placed as a centerpiece on the dinner tables.  The stem vase has a round base, thin stem for about 18-24 inches, and then the vase itself is about 18 inches.  The flowers sprout up from there.  The thin stem allows people sitting at the table to see each other, and the height of the flowers drops the ceiling down.  At eye level, it's a virtual explosion of color!

I love this idea because it combines a traditional element (centerpiece) and negates the need for additional decorations hanging from the ceiling.  String up some twinkle lights in a long row or two and there you have it.

For my wedding we did something like this, without the fancy vases and with asiatic lillies.  It was simple, elegant, and added the feel we liked most.

What's your thought on decorating the pavilion or fireside room, flower arrangements or otherwise?