Amazing Centerpieces

Keith Lewis/www.avideye.com

When it comes to creating a dazzling centerpiece for a holiday meal, Ron Morgan knows his stuff. The Alameda resident—who won his first floral arrangement competition at age 10—has written four books about floral decor, travels the United States speaking at garden clubs, and has designed window arrangements for Harrods in London. He also decorates Star Wars director George Lucas’s lavish parties.

To impress your Thanksgiving guests, Morgan suggests bringing the produce section into your decorations. “Produce has more guts than fluffy flowers,” he says. “Pomegranates are one of my favorite things to use at this time of year.

”Morgan also says to avoid the single clump in the middle of the table. “It’s easier to do a few small arrangements than one massive centerpiece,” he says. For added flair, he adds, “try sprinkling leaves and berries along the table. Grab some from your yard or your neighbor’s yard. People don’t realize how much is right in their neighborhood.” Hungry for more tips from the master? Stop in to see Morgan in his new antiques and home-style shop, Loot, at 3598 Mt. Diablo Boulevard in Lafayette, where he will teach floral arrangement classes once a month.

For information, go to www.ronmorgandesigns.com