DWP - Eco-Chic Table Centerpieces

I'm sure all of you are wondering what is DWP? Well, it is my version of DIY. Instead of DIY, I think every bride should "do with planner" or DWP. I have a number of projects from assembling favors to creating centerpieces that I want to share with you.

Working with clients and brainstorming about how to create unique event design is something I love to do. I am also passionate about caring for the environment. So, I was in my kitchen peeling the label of a Dole Pineapple can and about to toss it into our recycling bin when thunder struck!

I thought, "Wow. This could be used to make a beautiful green centerpiece." In more ways than one. 

Not only was my goal to reuse my recycling for a different purpose, I wanted to make the centerpiece beautiful.  As I was thinking about how to make it look completely different, the connotation of "green" was at the forefront of my creative process. "Green" is a word used to describe being environmentally friendly and it is also classic color.

To create something beautiful out of recyclable cans is not an easy task but it can be done using a little imagination. I decided to cover the cans with florists moss because it is very inexpensive and it is also a very Earthy, organic material.

Over the next few days I collected various shapes and sizes of recyclable cans. My husband was wondering why I was keeping these cans and kept tossing them back into the recycling bin. This is why I say to DWP because it will sound so much more legitimate to your significant other when you tell them that your planner told you to save all of these cans. Plus, your planner will come over and help you assemble your “green” centerpieces.

The first step in creating these centerpieces is to spray paint the cans green. After they dried, I used my glue gun to hot glue on the florist's moss. You and your planner should wear rubber gloves while doing this so that you don't burn your fingers. (Yes, this is knowledge I am passing on to you.)

After gluing on the florist's moss, then you will need to put florist's foam into the cans and fill them with water. To make a beautiful arrangement, simply buy flowers from your local farmer's market or grocery store. Or you can drop them off at your local florist's shop so they can create a fantastic centerpiece to be delivered to your reception venue. (This is what I prefer.)

The great thing about these centerpieces is the moss comes off very easily and the cans can still be recycled. Obviously, it will take some time to save cans of varying shapes and sizes but it can be easily done when you start early enough. Have a space set aside to put the cans so that they don't clutter up your living space. This could be a closet, spare bedroom or garage.

When the time comes, DWP. Make a day of it! Put on your favorite tunes then start spray painting your recyclable cans. When they are dry you can start with hot gluing on the moss. It is a really easy process if you make an assembly line. You could have 12 tables done by days end.

This should be done at least a week before your wedding. I know it is crazy busy during this time but it is important because if you have your "green" vases done they can easily be delivered to the florist. Of course, you can DWP and put the flower arrangements together the day before your wedding. Either way, this project takes time but it is simple and kind to the Earth.

I sincerely hope I've inspired.