The Power of Centerpieces
By: Meredith Lewis
When setting a beautiful table for a party, gathering with loved ones, or even for a casual weeknight dinner, half the fun is in the planning. It’s wonderful to use seasonal china, polished silver, and monogrammed napkins, but the true finishing touch is always the centerpiece. This is where your creativity has the chance to truly shine!
Living in the South, we’re fortunate to be able to snip from our gardens nearly year-round, which I absolutely love. If something is in bloom—whether it’s camellias, daffodils, nandina berries, or even just the pretty foliage of magnolia leaves—these often make their way to my table. I also enjoy mixing grocery store flowers with clippings from the yard. It creates a much more interesting and unique arrangement than simply placing a store-bought bouquet into a vase.
Speaking of vases, let’s think outside the box! There are so many unique vessels that can make stunning centerpieces. A cornucopia in November, a cabbage bowl in the spring, or a blue-and-white ginger jar from the mantle—these can make beautiful containers year-round. (Just be sure to place a waterproof pad under any container that isn’t sealed at the bottom. Trust me, I’m speaking from experience!)
You can also get creative and use something other than flowers as a centerpiece. A blue-and-white bowl filled with bright green Granny Smith apples is simply stunning. Or how about pinecones gathered from the yard in a pottery bowl, a ceramic bunny for Easter, or silver ball ornaments in a Revere bowl for Christmas? This is one of my favorite ways to mix things up, giving each season its own unique flair.
On a daily basis, when my table isn’t set, I love having a large French blue-and-white antique tureen sitting proudly on display. It’s one of my favorite pieces and adds so much charm to the space. We all have items around our homes that could make a lovely centerpiece, so go ahead—find a beautiful bowl, basket, or tureen and fill it with things that bring joy and beauty to your table. I’d love to hear what centerpiece items you love to use!
Happy hosting!
-Meredith Lewis
Our Favorite Planter Vessels:
About the Author:
Meredith Lewis is an influencer based in Wilmington, North Carolina, where she lives with her husband and their three college-aged children. What started as a way to connect with her kids and their friends on social media quickly blossomed into a thriving platform, as Meredith shared her passion for gracious living, home design, and beautiful table settings. Known for her traditional, cheerful, Southern, and elegant style, Meredith’s social media presence has resonated with followers who share her love for timeless beauty and thoughtful details.
Over the years, Meredith has collaborated with numerous women-owned businesses across the country, and her enthusiasm for all things tabletop has only deepened. She has been honored to speak to groups of women about the art of setting a lovely table and flower arranging, forging lasting connections along the way. Additionally, Meredith owns a charming boutique called “Polished” in Wilmington, located within the multi-vendor space, Spruced. At Polished, she curates a collection of tabletop pieces, gifts, and home décor, bringing her signature style to customers who appreciate a refined yet welcoming aesthetic.
Find Meredith Lewis on Socials @Meredithlewis05
Photos provided by: Meredith Lewis
Share this post:
Click this link to visit our shop! Follow us on social media below!
Southern Hospitality Company
One response to “The Power of Centerpieces”
Meredith’s tablescapes are gorgeous, such a talented woman!!! The tureen with the white pumpkins is to die for!