Zen

For Centerpieces:
Zen gardens or "dry landscape gardens" were first created in Japan as meditative havens for followers of Zen Buddhism. Scaled down replicas are increasing in popularity worldwide as conversation pieces and as wonderful relaxation techniques. Purchase or create Zen gardens complete with sand, stones and rakes to create a relaxing centerpiece! Candles, bonsai trees, moss or stones around the garden will add height. Interactive centerpieces will surely keep your guests entertained.

For Favors:
Buy little rakes, boxes, stones and sand from a craft store for your guests to take home. Wrap up the stones and sand in little baggies to avoid the pitfall of a mess.

Fountains

For Centerpieces:
· For Centerpieces: Fountains don't have to be expensive if you're ready to do some work. Purchase some small electric water fountain pumps on the Internet or from your local hardware store and make sure you stay safe by following the directions and taking advice from the experts. A simple bamboo spigot will work well with this theme and don't forget to put some stones at the bottom of a sleek ceramic bowl. You can put floating candles, moss or lay bamboo sticks across the top of the bowl and place a small floral arrangement or bonsai tree on it. Then, just add water!

For Favors:
Giving mini-fountains to each of your guests may be expensive, but it's still possible to tie in your fountains with the favors. Remember the stones you put at the bottom of the bowl? Buy bigger stones engraved with wise sayings in Japanese and English - "Longevity", "Prosperity" or "Good Luck" as gifts. Wrap the stone in handmade paper and tie it with some raffia to finish the piece

Water

For Centerpieces:
Love the idea of water but don't want the electrical devices? Let's not forget ice! Purchasing small ice sculptures are not as expensive as you think OR you can purchase ice sculpture molds for under $20 and do it yourself! Throw in some food coloring to match the dominant colors of the reception and your guests will be in awe of your creativity. Use a subtle ceramic or glass bowl with conveniently placed flowers to catch the melting ice.

For Favors:
Anything with water is hard to transfer as gifts so you'll have to use a little artistic license. Buy chocolate or lacquered boxes in the shape of the centerpiece or if you want to personalize it a bit, go to your local craft store and buy small matching molds to fill with chocolate. Your guests will appreciate the "sweet" personal touch!