Small Wedding Centerpiece Ideas For Every Wedding Size
Published:
October 2, 2025
Having a micro wedding means you get to splurge on all the details and that includes tablescapes and decor! A well-chosen centerpiece can transform a table from a simple surface into a stunning focal point that ties the whole look together.
In this post, we’ll explore some of the best small wedding centerpiece ideas for every style, budget, and theme. Whether you want something elegant and minimalist or fun and whimsical, these ideas will help you elevate your micro wedding reception.
You'll want to consider a few things as you plan your table decor for your micro wedding.
Wedding Style & Theme
Obviously the wedding theme is an important consideration! We always say that defining your theme is one of the first things you should do when you're planning your wedding. Once you do that, making decisions on things like decor will be so much easier. And, you can ensure that all the pieces of your wedding tie together for a cohesive look.
Size & Layout
Small weddings often mean smaller tables, so it’s important to choose centerpieces that fit the scale of your space. You want your centerpieces to be big enough to make an impact, but not so large that they dominate the table and block conversation. Consider whether your tables are round, rectangular, or long banquet-style, as each shape will require a slightly different centerpiece arrangement.
Budget
Your centerpiece doesn’t need to break the bank. There are tons of affordable options out there — from DIY to real-touch faux flowers and even rentals you don't have to sacrifice centerpieces for your small wedding even if you're on a budget.
Personalization
A small wedding gives you the perfect opportunity to add personal touches to your centerpieces. Think aboutincorporating elements that reflect you and your partner’s personalities—whether it’s through favorite flowers, meaningful colors, or small trinkets that tell your love story.
If you’re aiming for a chic and sophisticated wedding, minimalist centerpieces can be incredibly effective. Think simple but striking.
Candles: Tall, elegant taper candles or pillar candles in metallic holders can create a stunning effect without overwhelming the space. Opt for neutral tones like ivory or gold for a timeless look.
Single Stems: A lone flower in a delicate glass vase—like a single orchid or a sleek calla lily—can make a statement without overcrowding the table. Less is more with minimalist designs.
Monochrome Arrangements: Keep the colors simple, using all-white or soft pastel blooms for an elegant, understated centerpiece. Combine flowers with metallic touches, such as gold accents or silver trays, to elevate the look.
Display pictures and fun facts about you on your wedding reception tables like the ones pictured above by Smiles by Megan. These unique and affordable centerpieces serve as great conversation starters for your guests and double as keepsakes! Check out her designs here.
Rustic & Natural Wedding Centerpieces
Rustic weddings are a trend that doesn't seem to be going anywhere. If this is your vibe, here are a few ideas.
Wooden Slices & Mason Jars: A popular rustic option is to place flowers in mason jars or small glass bottles, then set them atop wooden slices for a rustic-chic vibe. You can also add small candles or fairy lights for extra charm.
Succulent Terrariums: Succulents are perfect for small weddings. A simple terrarium with tiny succulents, moss, and pebbles will add a natural, earthy feel to your table without overwhelming it. These can also double as wedding favors and place cards pulling double duty in the decor department!
Wildflower Bouquets: Wildflowers are an affordable and beautiful option for rustic weddings. They don’t need to be overly arranged—just a casual, hand-picked bouquet in a simple jar or vase can have a whimsical, natural charm. I purchased dried wildflowers for centerpieces which was a totally affordable and cute way to pull together my outdoor wedding theme.
Boho & Whimsical Centerpieces
For couples who love free-spirited, artistic vibes, boho centerpieces are a perfect fit. Think natural elements with a playful, relaxed feel.
Vintage Candlesticks: Scour thrift shops for vintage brass or copper candle holders to create a retro, bohemian atmosphere. You can add colorful flowers or greenery around the base to tie it all together.
Pampas Grass: This trend continues to be popular for a boho wedding. Tall pampas grass stems arranged in vases create a dreamy, soft look that’s perfect for a laid-back celebration.
Macrame & Dreamcatchers: Incorporate textured elements like macrame or hanging dreamcatchers into your centerpieces. These can easily be hung from the ceiling above the table, or you can use them as base decor for flower arrangements.
Modern & Geometric Table Decor
If you prefer bold, contemporary design, geometric centerpieces are a great choice. They add a touch of sophistication and structure to your table.
Geometric Vases: Choose from metallic or clear glass geometric shapes that hold flowers or greenery. These can range from cubes and spheres to pyramids and prisms, and they add a modern, sleek touch to your decor.
Bold Colors: For a modern feel, pair dark-colored elements with bright pops of color. Black vases with vibrant yellow or fuchsia flowers create striking contrasts that catch the eye.
Floating Candles: This is such a simple and affordable way to add a classic, romantic look to your micro wedding centerpieces. Choose tall glass hurricanes or shallow glass bowls. Combine this with some greenery or small flowers for an elegant, contemporary look.
Lantern Wedding Centerpieces
There are several ways to incorporate lanterns into your wedding decor.
Rustic Charm: Fill a lantern with a pillar candle surrounded by greenery and baby's breath, placed on a wooden slice with scattered pinecones or moss.
Romantic Glow: Use a lantern with fairy lights inside, surrounded by small vases of seasonal flowers and tealight candles.
Beachy Elegance: Add sand and seashells inside the lantern with a candle, and place it on a bed of driftwood and starfish for a coastal vibe.
DIY & Budget-Friendly Centerpieces
A small wedding is the perfect time to get crafty and save on expenses. Here are some ideas for easy-to-make, budget-friendly centerpieces.
Repurposed Items: Use old books, wine bottles, or mismatched teacups as the base for your centerpieces. You can paint them or leave them as-is for a more vintage look.
Simple Flower Arrangements: If you’re on a budget, you can easily create small bouquets using affordable flowers like baby’s breath, carnations, or daisies or even dried flowers. Arrange them in small mason jars, vintage bud vases, or even wooden crates.
Candles and Twine: Wrap mason jars or tin cans in twine and fill them with simple candles or flowers. These DIY centerpieces can be made in bulk and placed on every table for a cohesive, rustic look.
How to Personalize Your Small Wedding Centerpieces
One of the best things about small weddings is the ability to infuse them with your personality. Here’s how to make your centerpieces uniquely yours.
Incorporate Family Heirlooms: Add sentimental items like family heirlooms, photographs, or pieces that represent your journey as a couple. A vintage photograph in a small frame can serve as both decor and a beautiful reminder of your love.
Seasonal Flowers: Choose flowers that are in season at the time of your wedding, or incorporate fruits like pomegranates or apples for a seasonal, personal touch.
DIY Elements: Handcrafted touches—whether it’s custom-made tags with your initials or hand-painted vases—can make your centerpieces feel more intimate and personalized.
Floral vs. Non-Floral: What Works Best for Small Weddings?
When planning your centerpiece, you might consider something other than flowers -- I am loving this trend! Here are the pros and cons:
Floral Centerpieces: Fresh flowers are the classic choice and you really can't go wrong with this option. The only downside to fresh is that they can be expensive.
Non-Floral Centerpieces: Non-floral centerpieces can be a great option for budget-savvy couples or if you're looking for something totally unique. Choose candles, greenery or other non-floral elements to put a totally different spin on table decor.
This is one of my favorite wedding flower hacks. I wrote a whole guide about how to use dried flowers in your wedding (including links to affordable dried flowers online) because it's such an easy way to get flowers for a fraction of the cost.
Buy a few bouquets and break them down to fill tiny antique bud vases
Selecting the perfect centerpiece for your small wedding is an opportunity to reflect your unique style and personality while enhancing the overall aesthetic of your celebration. Whether you lean towards elegant and minimalist designs, rustic and natural elements, boho and whimsical touches, or modern geometric shapes, there’s a plethora of creative options to choose from. By considering your wedding theme, budget, and the size of your tables, you can create stunning focal points that not only capture attention but also foster an inviting atmosphere for your guests. Remember, the essence of a small wedding lies in the details, so take this chance to personalize your centerpieces and make them a meaningful part of your special day. With thoughtful choices, you can elevate your micro wedding into a beautifully curated event that celebrates your love story.
Author Bio
Jennie Swenson is a former micro wedding bride, and she now supports countless couples in planning their own intimate celebrations through her blog, featuring real micro wedding stories and a curated vendor directory. Her practical advice and firsthand experience make her a go-to resource for those seeking to create memorable and meaningful micro weddings.
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