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The arrival of the holidays brings with it the opportunity to entertain. We gather together to celebrate the joy of the season through a multitude of lovely parties * our own or those of our friends* or family*s. Nothing sets the tone of a holiday gathering more than the decorating of one's home. Candles are lit, wreaths are hung, and garland is strewn. And for the holiday table around which we gather, there is the Christmas centerpiece.

A Christmas centerpiece can encompass many things * a basket of pine cones, a grouping of candles, or an arrangement of flowers or plants. The possibilities are only as limited as your imagination. While many hosts or hostesses will purchase their Christmas centerpiece, this can be quite expensive; especially if you are purchasing a fresh or dried flower arrangement.

But a beautiful Christmas centerpiece need not only result from a trip to a high-end store. There are plenty of ways to inexpensively design your own Christmas centerpiece for little money; all it takes is some creativity and time. For instance, if you have your heart set on a Christmas centerpiece that focuses on fresh or dried flowers then try your hand at designing your own. There are plenty of wholesale flower markets where you can find a bargain; purchasing your own flowers and then arranging them in a festive vase can make a lovely Christmas centerpiece. Just be sure to keep the arrangement on the short side; you want your guests to be able to see each other and for conversation to flow smoothly.

For dried flowers, visit your local craft store. You'll find a large variety of dried flowers in the colors of the season to help you construct a beautiful Christmas centerpiece. Because these flowers don*t require water, feel free to arrange them in a container that suits you, such as a basket.

While you are in the craft store, you may want to check out their class schedule. Most retail craft stores offer periodic classes for crafters to learn a certain project. Around the holidays you'll find classes in everything from wreath making to candle making. If you look around you'll be sure to find some classes on designing and making a unique Christmas centerpiece.

As you welcome your family and friends into your home this holiday season, light your candles and lavish your table with the beauty of the season. And in so doing, don*t forget to include a beautiful Christmas centerpiece. It will put the finishing touches on your home's holiday spirit.