In search of the prefect branch

[tomfromcrossroads]

I have done several weddings where I use tall branches with hanging votive candles and dendrobium wrapped around the stems for centerpieces. My problem is I use curly willow which looks good, but does not support the weight of the hanging votives very well. I thought about Manzaita branches which are strong enough, but too expensive and too dense. I was thinking about a mountain laurel branch, which might work.
Can anyone recommend a good branch that has a nice shape and is sturdy??

 

[CarverFlowers]

I use birch branches.

 

[Lizi]

Birch is what we use.

 

[KABERS]

I really like the look of curly willow more so than birch - especially when it's fresh and curly. I cheat as much as possible with added support of wire and armatures - because nothing is more important than mechanics and not burning the place down. That would make a pretty poor "happily ever after story"

 

[marysunshine]

I really like the look of curly willow more so than birch - especially when it's fresh and curly. I cheat as much as possible with added support of wire and armatures - because nothing is more important than mechanics and not burning the place down. That would make a pretty poor "happily ever after story"

Have you tried mixing the two? You get the beauty of the strong branches and the strength of the birch.

 

[Tuberose]

I've used the thicker lower parts of the curly willow and let them dry, add several stems to the bucket of plaster and let dry. if You wanted that curlier finer look you could add several of the thinner twigs to the plaster as well, but just use the heavier branches to hang stuff.