Spring

Brides who aren't married to tradition may want to skip the bride-and-groom cake topper in favor of a pretty brooch, below.

Shape, color, or history (not price) make the piece interesting.

A fresh spring wedding reception, especially one held outside, needs a cheery cake. The three-tier concoction is topped by a modern mix of cake-safe flowers and a jeweled pin.

 

Fresh flowers adorn the top of the cake, making a gorgeous replacement for a traditional cake topper. A butterfly pin is the focal point of the arrangement and will be a lovely keepsake for the bride as well.

 

Layer colors and textures to create an out-of-the-ordinary display that will always be remembered.

Surprise details give your wedding decorations personality. Little touches, such as the beeswax-wrapped votive candles and stuffed terra-cotta pots take this garden-theme table to the next level.

Adding height makes a cake display visually appealing. Turn simple curtain rods into ribbon-tied maypoles that stick into the ground or lean against a wall.

If you don't have a garden, plant one by sticking floral stems directly into the ground. Flanked by maypoles, this colorful table is personalized with a monogrammed throw.