After stowing away the holiday trimmings, a little toning down on the glitter is in order.

Let’s start with a basic tropical theme using local woven mats as the main backdrop for a table runner and seating, as well. By putting together a local element like the coconut and using leaves to balance the look, we came up with an eye-catching tropical centerpiece!

You will need:

Banig or woven mats (Quiapo market)

3 coconuts (any local market)

Big and small leaves (fillers for gaps) and berries (your own garden, flower shops, Dangwa)

Flowers (optional)

Floral foam

Small plastic bag to fit foam in

Scissors

1. Start with a big banig.

2. Lay a big leaf in the center and put floral foam on top. Tip: Fit the plastic bag around the floral foam to contain the water so it does not leak onto the table cloth a nd banig table runner.

3. Cut leaves and fillers to the desired length (ours are 5 inches) and insert into the floral foam. Arrange in a semi-symmetrical way so colors and textures come out even. Continue doing this, going around the foam.

Place coconuts on either side of the arrangement to balance it out.

Tip: To add color and interest, you may want to add a flower or two, or even fruit.