Pineapples can make decorative, edible centerpieces.
When you are throwing a party with a tropical or beach theme, pineapples can add a fresh touch to table decor. The unique shape, color and texture of pineapples adds an unexpected touch to centerpieces; after the party is over, you can use the fruit for meals and desserts to reduce waste.
Candle Holder
For a simple centerpiece, turn a pineapple into a candle holder. Cut a window out of the front of the pineapple and scoop out the fruit, making sure that the interior is as smooth as possible. Leave the greens on top for visual effect. Put a candle in the hollowed out space so it shows through the window and place the pineapple on a plate or a mirrored tile. You can also cut the top off like a jack-o-lantern, take out the fruit, and cut designs in the sides of the pineapple before putting in the candle for a more subtle effect.
Palm Tree
When you are looking for a big, dramatic centerpiece for a buffet table or a very long table, make a pineapple palm tree. Cut the top and bottom off of three or four pineapples, depending on the height you want the tree to be, saving the greens for later. Use dowels to attach the pineapples together to form two or three trunks, adjusting them so they bend gently. Anchor the dowels to a heavy piece of wood to form a base. Attach floral wire to the ends of the pineapple greens and put them into the top of the palm tree stem to form the fronds.
Vase
If you are using pineapple in your party food or at home, turn the rest of the pineapple into a vase. Cut the top off of the pineapple and scoop out the fruit. Put a piece of foam or floral foam into the empty pineapple. Find bright, tropical flowers and greens and arrange their stems in the foam so the flowers spill over the edge of the pineapple and conceal the cut edges. The texture of the pineapple will contrast with the flowers for a more subtle, tropical look.
Fruit Pyramid
For a large, attention-getting centerpiece, make a fruit pyramid. Find a foam cone and use skewers to attach different tropical fruits to the outside to cover the exposed surface. Cut off the top of the cone and use a skewer to attach a pineapple; you may need to cut off the bottom part of the pineapple to make it fit. Fill the spaces in the fruit with smaller fruits like cherries, grapes and limes.
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