Boxes and Ribbons

• Whether you are celebrating a wedding or a special holiday, empty boxes and pretty ribbon can create a festive, elegant centerpiece. Collect large, medium and small square boxes. Spray paint them with metallic paint. Pile the boxes in the middle of the table and tie them with satin or organza ribbon. You can also use spray-painted gold and silver boxes as containers. Line them with pretty lace or a dressy fabric. Place a lined box on a pretty mirror and lay some flowers across the top. Place some ribbon curls around the box. Another easy idea is to use a spray-painted box as a base. Set a pretty urn or vase on it filled with flowers.
  
  

Candles

• Candles are elegant, versatile and help create a warm ambiance. Purchase stands of varied heights. Cluster them in the center of the table and put a candle on each stand. Fill a large bowl with water. Place a few floating candles in the bowl. Toss some flower petals around the centerpiece. Choose monotone candles in different heights and shapes. Cluster them on a pretty tray. Surround them with flowers that are the same color,