The Mistake You're Making With Your Dining Room Centerpieces

Centerpieces are excellent for upgrading your table, whether you want to make a statement or soften the aesthetic of your dining room. However, using a centerpiece that doesn't successfully complement your table can have the opposite effect, potentially making your dining room appear sloppy or cheap. Ignoring your dining room table's shape and design when adding a centerpiece is a significant mistake.

Julia Sousa — an interior design TikTok user with two million followers — posted a video, saying, "Consider the size and shape of your centerpiece relative to the size and shape of your table. Ideally, you want to follow the shape of your table. In this case [for a long, rectangular table], longer shapes work best, or you could style it in a linear fashion. If your table is square or round, opt for equidistant shapes so that it looks proportional." Thus, it's crucial to note your table's size and shape and remember to use those proportions as guidelines when determining what to select as a centerpiece.

In addition to choosing a centerpiece with a shape that looks proportionate to the table's size and shape, you should pay close attention to the piece's style and vibe. Have fun with it; you should be unique or artistic and see a centerpiece as a way to express your style and aesthetic. "Dining table decor doesn't always have to be flowers," Cindy Rinfret, an interior designer, told Homes & Gardens. "We love to use found objects, architectural details, and textures to make an interesting tablescape." 

Also, you should not let the rule regarding the table's shape intimidate you. For example, don't assume you can't use a beautiful round vase as a centerpiece if you have a rectangular dining room table. Just be ready to make some clever accommodations. Instead of ditching the lovely vase, put it on a rectangular tray or table runner and add a few more accessories, such as candles. By making that adjustment, not only will the flowers and vase better fit the table's proportions, but the centerpiece will look extra unique and intriguing.

You shouldn't feel discouraged if the centerpieces you see when you shop don't seem the best fit for your table. If you have a crafty side, consider making your own dining room table centerpiece for a custom look. As long as you pay attention to your table's shape and size, there are still many exciting DIY options to explore. For example, TikTok user @kayleymillerhome shared a video teaching viewers how to create a festive dining room centerpiece for a rectangular table. The content creator laid a table runner down the middle of the table lengthwise, added some eucalyptus and ornament garland, and set up three elegant, slim candles in the center for a classy holiday look.

Or, if you have a round dining room table, consider filling a few glasses or containers with ornaments, candles, rose petals, flower stems, rhinestones, or anything else you enjoy. And, if you want, let those decorations float in water. Then, place your creations on a round tray. Swap out your centerpieces depending on the season or whenever the mood strikes. Just remember, even when following the rule regarding proportions, stay true to your style; and if you have a favorite color, use it!