Table Centrepieces

At the 125th anniversary gala for the National Geographic Society in June, the “Land, Sea, and Sky” theme inspired an array of custom tables and toppers, including glacier ice sculptures. Select Lucite tables were not topped with any decorations, but instead held water and plant life, or natural objects like seashells.

The “Facing Center” iPad centerpieces from Keep Interacting allow organizers to incorporate photos and other information into an event’s table decor. Launched earlier this year, the iPads display a slideshow of photos, product images, sponsor information, or other content provided by the event’s host ahead of time. Then, at the event, the company provides a photographer to take photos that are instantly added to the display. Using the touch screens, guests can also share the images on social media, send them via email, and order printed copies to pick up from a kiosk on site.

The Starlight Children's Foundation hosted its Starlight Gala, sponsored by Toys "R" Us, at Toronto's Fairmont Royal York Hotel in April. The event’s circus-inspired ideas included dinner tables topped with miniature Ferris wheels that held cupcakes with colorful frosting.

Russell Simmons’s Art for Life benefit, held in the Hamptons in July, featured an idyllic theme—“Field of Dreams”—that came to life in the whimsical centerpieces. Floating kites suspended over each table and anchored to wheatgrass flats had colorful signs on their tails that held the names of artistic vocations such as “dancer” and “poet.”

Make-your-own champagne cocktail bar with orange and pineapple juices, Angostura bitters, sugar cubes, lemon twists, fresh fruit, and champagne, by the Mandarin Oriental in San Francisco

An empty picture frame cleverly highlighted a 3-D centerpiece from MB Custom Florals.

For a fall-hued table, JM Event Design arranged apples, pumpkins, and other gourds into a pleasing cornucopia. Velvet-covered and leather chairs set a warm tone.

The table design from MB Custom Florals drew eyes upward with hanging vases.

Red roses, carnations, and candles created a holiday mood at the table from Cameron Keating Event Design.

Boca by Design used iron lanterns, calla lilies, and hydrangeas to create a rustic setting.

At the table from Designs by Sean, moss served as the centerpiece's foundation. Mini bouquets attached to the chair backs added a sweet touch.

Richard Grille Events mixed pillar candles and votives with tulips and other orange-hued flowers.

With hanging grapes, Tropical Elegance evoked a lush bacchanalia.

The event was held at Panache Party Rentals facility in Boynton Beach.