Tada! Here is my first centerpiece.

I wanted the centerpieces to (be):
1. Affordable
2. Low - to not interfere with conversation at guest tables
3. Fit the theme (Chinese Tea)
4. Reusable for the most part
5. Easy to transport and set up
6. Incorporate something with life (flowers or plants)
7. Include candles as part of the centerpiece (as opposed to just adding votives around the piece)
8. Unique
I purchased 7 of these ceramic tea sets. The evolution of the mockup is pictured as follows:
Version #1:
Added red velvet liner, red tealights, silk red hydrangea (meant to be replaced by real flowers later) to the original tea set
Version #2:
Replaced velvet liner with red beans to add texture
Version #3:
Swapped silk flower with fresh carnations
Final Version:
Used large silk flower placed in the tray instead of in the pot
* Tea sets retail for $24.99 but I purchased them from various stores (Amazon, Ross, Le Gourmet Chef) on sale.
** Red tea lights were on clearance (90% off).
*** Silk Ranunculus also on clearance (75% off)
What do you think?
very unique — i reminds me a bit of a chinese version of mrs. lovebug’s teapot/book centerpieces. great score on all the deals! you can even send guests home with the tea pots and cups/votive holders if you like and just save one set for yourselves!