For a recent autumn table setting, I created a centerpiece inspired by the colors and textures of the season to add a decorative, poetic touch. While I often use bouquets to adorn my tables and other settings, toward the end of the year, I like to take extra time to craft centerpieces that highlight and celebrate the season. Creating a natural fall centerpiece isn’t very complicated, and here (and in video). I’ll explain how to do it in just a few simple steps.
As always, all you need are the right tools and an understanding of the various stages. I often call the centerpiece a table garland, as it’s a bit like a garland in its flexibility. You can even use this technique to decorate a staircase banister, for example. I’ll explain two ways to create it: a simplified, practical version (especially useful if you live in the city) and another that starts entirely from scratch.
Simple version: the autumnal centrepiece with a "fake" garland
What you need
- Autumn garland (in store or online)
- Pruning shears
- Beech and oak branches
- Berries
- Pine cones
- Fresh hazelnuts
- Moss
- Cucurbits (butternut squash, pumpkins, etc.)
- Black candles
- Colored candles with candleholders
Begin by arranging your autumn garland in soft waves and curves to create a sense of movement along the table.
Prepare the branches you’ve collected from the forest (such as beech, oak, etc.), trimming them into smaller sections. Slide the flatter branches under the garland, and insert the fuller branches vertically into the garland to add volume.
3. Next, add a few berries vertically throughout the garland to introduce color and volume.
4. Along both sides of the garland, place small orange pumpkins, white pumpkins, and other unique gourds in various shapes and colors to enhance the arrangement.
5. Place black candles on either side of the garland to create striking contrast, along with colored sparklers (don’t be afraid to use bold, pop colors) and candleholders wrapped in foam at varying heights to add dimension.
Elaborate version: the autumnal centerpiece made from scratch
Watch the second part of the video above for a step-by-step explanation.
What you need
- Long curved branch (approx. 3-4 cm thick)
- Pruning shears
- Metal florist’s wire
- Metal wire cutter
- Scissors
- Rustic twine
- Beech and oak branches
- Berries
- Pine cones
- Fresh hazelnuts, chestnuts
- Cucurbits (butternut squash, pumpkins, etc.)
- Black candles
- Colored candles with candleholders
- Start by creating small, flat bundles about 20 cm in length. For example, take a flat beech branch and layer smaller beech branches on top to add some volume. Secure each bundle with rustic string, and repeat this process to make several more bundles following the same method.
2. Attach the bouquets along the main branch using metal florist’s wire, keeping the wire continuous without cutting it. Place the final bouquet in the opposite direction, pull the wire tight, and only cut it once all bouquets are securely fastened.
3. Insert elements such as berries and branches with small buds vertically throughout the garland.
4. Arrange gourds, pine cones, hazelnuts, chestnuts, and similar items along both sides of the garland.
5. Add candles on either side, as in the simpler version, and your centerpiece is complete.
Note: This type of arrangement can dry out quickly, so I recommend assembling the centerpiece on the day of your event or the day before. If prepared the day before, store it outside overnight to keep it fresh.
