Super Cheap Drop Dead Gorgeous Centerpieces

Ok, I am going to share my best idea ever with you because it`s just too good. Ice lanterns.

To make this you need a waterproof container about as high as you want your centerpiece to get (think 2qt pitcher, round or square). Fill the bottom with an inch of water and freeze. After it`s frozen set a tall plastic cup in the center and fill with pennies or a similar weight. Add very cold water and petals, shells, flowers, glitter, ect to the water return to freezer. If your additives tend to sink or rise in the water just do small layers. You can make these weeks ahead of time if you have the freezer space. The just before the reception remove the pennies from the center cup. Hot water will loosen the mold. Set your lantern in a good size dish and surround it with petals and candles that will float as the ice melts. Then set a candle in the center of the ice and light. We are using floater candles and galvanized oval tubs with several lanterns in each tub, but you could use glass bowls or ceramic.

If you are have a hard time picturing this check out martha`s weddings they do something similar with vodka bottles, but it`s much prettier with a candle. You might also use this as a vase for flowers, but that gets more expensive. In any event, try a practice lantern before you make tons. Set it out in the reception environment (air conditioning, outside temperature, shade, sun ect.) and see how long your size lasts and if you are happy with the puddle your filler makes as it melts.