Centerpiece Ideas for Every Type of Event: What Works and Why

When it comes to event design, centerpieces can completely transform a space, whether you're planning a corporate mixer, birthday dinner, wedding reception, or company holiday party. But not all events call for elaborate floral arrangements or towering tablescapes. The key is choosing the right centerpiece that fits your vibe, layout, and budget.
Here are some of our favorite centerpiece ideas that work beautifully in a variety of settings, plus a few pro tips we’ve learned from hosting hundreds of events at Bonaventure Brewing Co. in Downtown LA.

1. For Corporate Mixers or Networking Events 
Go for: Clean, modern, and low-maintenance

• Small potted succulents or minimalist floral arrangements
• Votive candles grouped in clusters for a warm glow
• Branded acrylic signs with table names or key messaging

Why it works: These events often include food stations and mingling, so tables don’t need to be cluttered. Keeping it simple helps the space feel polished and intentional without distracting from the purpose of the event.

2. For Birthday Parties or Social Celebrations
Go for: Playful, colorful, and personal

• Bud vases with bright seasonal flowers
• Mini balloons in jars or bold taper candles
• Photos of the guest of honor or themed décor elements (vinyl records, travel icons, etc.)

Why it works: These events tend to be more casual and energetic. Light, fun touches that reflect the personality of the host help set the tone and make the event feel curated.

3. For Weddings or Rehearsal Dinners
Go for: Romantic, layered, and timeless

• Low floral arrangements with greenery and soft blooms
• Floating candles or hurricanes
• Mixed-height elements to create depth and ambiance

Why it works: Romantic lighting and lush arrangements elevate the space and bring focus to the table. Just be sure to keep sightlines open so guests can see each other across the table.

4. For Buffet-Style Dinners or Partial Seated Events
Go for: Minimal and mobile

• Single floral stems in narrow vases
• Lanterns with LED candles
• Table numbers with small greenery accents

Why it works: If guests are mostly grabbing food and moving around, lightweight and movable decor keeps tables functional while still feeling thoughtful.

5. For Large Events With Long Tables or Communal Seating
Go for: Repetition and visual rhythm

• Garland-style greenery or eucalyptus runners
• Repeating groupings of candles and florals every few feet
• Simple ceramic or glass vessels in matching tones

Why it works: Consistency along a long table brings cohesion and flow to a large group setting. It also photographs beautifully from any angle.

Our Favorite Add-Ons That Elevate Any Table

• Table menus or mini drink menus
• Personalized place cards for plated dinners
• Chargers or colored napkins to tie in your color palette

Want to Keep It Simple? We’ve Got You Covered
​At Bonaventure Brewing Co., we provide votive candles for each table as part of your setup. They add just the right amount of ambiance without competing with your décor. If you want to bring in your own centerpieces, you're welcome to—our team will help place them during setup to make sure the final look feels balanced and polished.
If you're not booking with us but still planning an event in LA, we hope these ideas help spark inspiration!

Explore More Helpful Event Planning Tips:

• What Add-Ons Should I Include for My Event?
• How to Choose the Right Dinner Setup for Your Event
• Event Planning Checklist: What to Ask and Confirm Before You Book