A centrepiece is repeated on every table, so it weighs on the budget more than almost any other piece. It can be low, below eye level, or tall, on a pedestal stand or a slim vase, with the flowers above the guests' heads. On a banquet table, garlands or rows of small vases are common.
It has to leave room for plates, glasses, bottles and service, so plan it with the caterer's table setting. The guide to centrepiece prices gives indicative ranges and ways to save; the one on wedding centrepieces gathers ideas for every table; the one on table layout starts from the floor plan.
What to ask: height and width, whether the vases are hired, and a mock-up on a real table.
