10 Best Summer Wedding Centerpieces

Create stunning summer wedding centerpieces with these 10 DIY ideas. From sunflowers to seashells, find budget-friendly, creative, and beautiful centerpiece designs.

When I started planning my summer wedding, I knew the centerpieces had to be special. After all, they’re the focal point of every table and a huge part of the decor. But I also wanted them to be affordable and personal, so I decided to DIY them. The result? Beautiful, one-of-a-kind designs that fit my budget and looked incredible.

Summer weddings are perfect for embracing bold colors, natural elements, and fresh blooms. Whether you’re planning a beachy theme or a rustic garden vibe, there’s something magical about summer wedding centerpieces. And the best part? They’re so easy to make yourself!

If you’re ready to create your own wedding centerpieces, let me share 10 stunning ideas that made my tables pop. From inexpensive centerpiece ideas to more elaborate designs, these ideas are perfect for any style or budget.

10 Best Summer Wedding Centerpieces

1. Sunflower and Daisy Arrangements

Nothing says summer like the cheerful combination of sunflowers and daisies. These blooms are vibrant, rustic, and easy to arrange, making them ideal for DIY wedding centerpieces. For my wedding, I placed these flowers in vintage milk cans and mason jars for a relaxed, country vibe. The bright yellows and whites added warmth and charm to the tables.

This look works beautifully for barn weddings or outdoor garden receptions. Pair the flowers with accents like burlap, lace, or wooden slices for a rustic touch. You can even mix in wildflowers to create a more whimsical feel.

Tips for keeping flowers fresh: Trim the stems and keep the flowers in water until right before the event. Use floral food or a DIY mix of sugar and vinegar in the water to keep them vibrant all day.

2. Citrus-Inspired Displays

Citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, and limes are fresh, vibrant, and perfect for summer centerpieces wedding themes. I used clear glass vases filled with sliced citrus, topped with fresh greenery and blooms. The combination of colors and textures created a bright, modern look that wowed my guests.

These centerpieces are versatile and affordable, making them perfect for weddings on a budget. They also add a natural, zesty aroma to the tables, which is a delightful bonus.

Tips for preventing citrus from drying out: Assemble the vases the day of your wedding and keep the fruits refrigerated until ready to use. For added longevity, consider using faux citrus fruits.

3. Wildflower Mason Jars

Wildflowers bring a carefree, whimsical vibe that’s perfect for outdoor summer weddings. Mason jars filled with wildflower bouquets were a hit at my wedding. They’re budget-friendly and easy to arrange, making them an excellent choice for DIY wedding centerpieces. Add twine, lace, or ribbon around the jars for a personal touch.

These arrangements are perfect for rustic and boho themes. Plus, wildflowers are hardy and hold up well in summer heat, so you won’t have to worry about wilting.

Tips for sourcing flowers: Pick wildflowers locally if possible, or buy them in bulk from a flower market. Mix in greenery for added volume and texture.

4. Tropical Floral Arrangements

For a bold, exotic look, tropical flowers like hibiscus, anthuriums, and bird-of-paradise are stunning options. These vibrant blooms scream summer and pair beautifully with lush greenery. I placed these arrangements in tall vases for a dramatic effect, and they instantly transported my guests to a tropical paradise.

This style is perfect for beach weddings or tropical-inspired themes. You can even incorporate pineapples or coconuts as part of the design for added flair.

Tips for tropical flowers: Choose hardy varieties that can withstand heat and humidity. Keep them hydrated and arrange them just before the event.

5. Succulent and Candle Combinations

Succulents are trendy, versatile, and long-lasting, making them an excellent choice for diy centerpieces for wedding. Pair them with candles for a minimalist, modern look. I used small succulents in terrariums alongside pillar candles, and the effect was simple yet elegant.

This centerpiece idea works for both intimate and grand weddings. Plus, your guests can take the succulents home as favors, making this a two-in-one solution.

Tips for assembly: Use heat-resistant candle holders and arrange the succulents in advance. Opt for battery-operated candles if you’re worried about open flames.

6. Lavender and Herb Bouquets

Lavender and herbs like rosemary, mint, and thyme create an aromatic and visually stunning centerpiece. I arranged these in small pots and tied them with twine for a rustic, garden-inspired look. The calming scent of lavender added a relaxing ambiance to the reception.

These bouquets are perfect for outdoor garden weddings or rustic themes. They’re also practical since herbs can be reused or gifted after the wedding.

Tips for keeping herbs fresh: Mist the arrangements with water throughout the day and keep them in a cool area before the event.

7. Floating Candles with Petals

Floating candles surrounded by petals are timeless and elegant. For my wedding, I used shallow glass bowls filled with water, added rose petals, and placed floating candles on top. The soft glow of the candles created a romantic atmosphere as the evening set in.

This look is simple to execute and works for both formal and casual weddings. Choose flowers that match your theme to tie everything together.

Tips for setup: Place the candles securely in the center to ensure they stay lit. Use unscented candles if you’re already incorporating fragrant flowers.

8. Seashell and Sand Displays

Seashells, starfish, and sand make stunning centerpieces for beach weddings. I used glass bowls filled with sand and decorated them with shells, small candles, and sprigs of greenery. The natural elements tied in beautifully with my coastal theme.

This is one of the best wedding centerpiece on a budget ideas since you can collect many of the materials yourself. It’s also a unique way to bring the beach to your tables.

Tips for sourcing materials: Use craft stores or online suppliers for affordable, eco-friendly options. Secure the sand with a clear adhesive to prevent spills.

9. Vintage Lanterns with Greenery

Vintage lanterns filled with greenery and fairy lights add a romantic, whimsical touch to wedding tables. I found mismatched lanterns at thrift stores and filled them with ferns, eucalyptus, and soft lights. They were a huge hit and looked stunning as the sun set.

This centerpiece idea works beautifully for rustic, boho, or vintage-themed weddings. The soft glow of the lanterns creates a cozy, magical ambiance.

Tips for finding lanterns: Check thrift shops, flea markets, or online marketplaces. Add battery-operated fairy lights for hassle-free illumination.

10. Peony and Rose Arrangements

Peonies and roses are timeless choices for summer centerpieces for wedding. I combined these blooms in soft pastel shades and placed them in gold vases for a classic, elegant look. The full, lush arrangements added a touch of luxury to the tables.

This centerpiece style is versatile and works for both modern and traditional weddings. Pair the flowers with greenery or filler blooms to create depth and texture.

Tips for keeping flowers fresh: Store them in cool water until just before the event. Use floral foam in vases to secure the arrangements and extend their lifespan.

Conclusion

Creating your own summer wedding centerpieces is not only rewarding but also a great way to save money while adding personal touches to your big day. From bright sunflowers to elegant floating candles, there’s a centerpiece idea for every style, theme, and budget.

Remember, the key to successful DIY wedding centerpieces is planning ahead and staying true to your vision. Whether you’re crafting rustic wildflower jars or luxurious peony arrangements, these ideas will make your tables shine and leave your guests in awe. So roll up your sleeves, get creative, and enjoy every moment of bringing your vision to life!