Although snow is still putting in an occasional appearance in Canada and parts of the U.S. and Europe, event calendars are well into spring.

Regardless of your budget, adding a touch of nature will freshen up event venues. Here are 10 ways to bring Spring and nature into any event.

1. Select a venue with lots of green space.
   It doesn’t have to be expensive. Think parks, university campuses, mountain chalets and botanical gardens.
2. Choose a venue near water.
   Examples include beach houses, lakeside venues, riverside venues, or venues with ponds and fountains.
3. Impress at the entrance.
   First impressions pack the greatest punch. When budgets are limited, bring in a few potted flowering plants or shrubs. Experiment with miniature orange or lemon plants. (These are often used in hotel lobbies and at events in Asia.)The photo to the right shows that flower vases and candles can dress up an entrance. If different areas are used for the reception and dining, they can then be moved and used as table centerpieces.
4. Create centerpieces and tablescapes with seasonal flowers.
   Event planners aren’t limited to tulips and daffodils. Consider lilacs,
   azaleas, cherry blossoms, trilliums, crocuses and hydrangeas.

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