21 Compote Centerpieces That'll Upgrade Your Reception Tables

When it's time to choose your wedding centerpieces, you want to consider what type of reception table dynamic you're looking for. If you're attempting to create a high-drama, big-impact floral arrangement, you'll likely go with sky-high, vertical arrangement. These types of displays might make your guests' jaws drop, but they do have one downside—they definitely limit conversation once all attendees have taken their seats. If you want to encourage across-the-table, mid-dinner mingling, smaller-scale centerpieces are a better option. Luckily, going small doesn't have to mean sacrificing that wow factor.

Enter compote wedding centerpieces. These particular displays are petite and typically arranged in a small bowl or short vase. The most defining element of a compote centerpiece, however, is its overall shape—circular, with close-together blooms that don't obstruct the arrangement's vessel (you can typically see it!). Though this essentially sums up this specific centerpiece style, there is, of course, room for customization. Take this short arrangement by Nicolette Camille, for example. It's moody dahlias and garden roses (the color palette ties the arrangement back to the earthy gray tablecloth!) are decidedly short, but a few strategically-placed tall buds add a moment of verticality.

Another way to bring a degree of personalization to these arrangements? Get creative with its vessel. Consider an antique bowl for classic celebrations, or a wooden iteration for a bohemian fête. This is also the perfect chance to incorporate a family heirloom (your "something old," perhaps?) into your wedding décor. Click through to discover the prettiest compote centerpieces to inspire your own.