When entertaining, I always prefer cleverly repurposing everyday items in a beautiful way over blowing the bank on something store bought or adding yet another trinket to my overflowing cabinets. Thus, I’ve become known for “creative” entertaining ideas.

This holiday creation is one of my all-time favorites. I conceptualized it for Domaine Chandon who hired me to contribute some savvy entertaining tips to their SavvyEntertainer.com website and help them get the word out about their Savvy Entertainer contest (see the link to “enter contest” and note there is a $25K prize).

It’s so simple and inexpensive to make, yet it’s rediculously stunning. Here’s how it’s done:

Ornament Centerpiece

24 various holiday bulb ornaments
1 box thin taper candles
1 serving tray
1 package of floral clay strip, Quake Wax, or Fun Tack (available at craft stores)

Cluster and adhere bulb ornaments to the tray with floral clay strip or other removable adhesive, ensuring that six large ornaments stand upright. Remove the tops of the six upright ornaments so they become bulb vases. Insert a candle into each one, light the wicks, and let the party begin.

–Erika Lenkert

Technorati Tags: centerpiece, holiday, ornament, inexpensive, candle, easy, fast, bulb