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I’ve always loveddecorating the tablefora special-occasion dinner多年,但我认为假日centerpieces. In my 20s they felt unnecessarily formal; a few strategically placed votives seemed festive enough. (Plus, fresh flowers were often prohibitively expensive.) As my style and budget evolved, I warmed to the idea of using a centerpiece to make a table look more polished, but in the spirit of keeping things casual, I still insisted on going the DIY route—usually some combination of mismatched but coordinatingcandles, antique metallic accents, and a floral element.
Now that I’m on the other side of the centerpiece debate (yes, the one that existed only in my own head) I’m happy to report that there are plenty of done-for-you centerpieces that don’t feel too stuffy or formal. Here are six ideas—and more than 20 products—for modern holiday centerpieces, whether you want to do it yourself or do no work at all.
A Cool Candelabra
A modern take on a classic candelabra adds visual interest and height to your holiday table without taking up too much space. You can keep the whole thing clean and minimal by simply addingtaper candles, or make it a little more festive by arranging flowers or fresh evergreen clippings around the base.
A Modern Holiday Floral Arrangement
Look, if you want to adorn your table with traditionalbig red bowsor evenpolyester poinsettias, I’m not going to stop you. But there are much more stylish options—from pared-down fresh evergreen to beautiful seasonal bouquets—that still feel super festive.
A Seasonal Sprig in a Minimalist Jug
If a full arrangement feels like too much, a few seasonal sprigs in avaseor glass jug can be equally pretty. Just keep height and scale in mind. An oversize vessel should have taller, more sparse branches or stems, and if you’re using something smaller, think shorter stems with fuller leaves or blooms.
A Collection of Pillar Candles on a Small Tray
Transform pillar candles into a modern centerpiece when you mix and match styles on a small mirrored, marble, or metallic tray. Try combining different shapes, heights, or colors (different shades of white as different colors) for a more interesting look. (And don’t forget alighter!)
Vintage-Inspired Ornaments in a Decorative Vase or Bowl
This is by far the easiest DIY holiday centerpiece, and it takes zero styling prowess. Just (carefully) add a collection of vintage-inspired glass ornaments to a clear glass vase or decorative bowl and voila! If your table needs more height, use a tall vase. If you’d rather not block any views, use a shallow dish. To make the whole thing feel more elevated, use a monochromatic ornament set (think green ornaments in a black or white bowl).
