Normally you try to avoid all things prickly at your wedding (we're talking to you, Great-Aunt Edna), but when it comes to these cute centerpieces, we're unable to resist! Using cactus, especially for Southwest or fiesta-themed weddings, is not only interesting and pretty, but also very practical. These hearty plants can be gifted and live long past your wedding day. Another cool thing about cactus plants is how easily they can be transplanted, so place them in vases filled with large beads for your reception and then replant in tiny pots the next day.

Cacti are available in a wide range of shapes, colors, and sizes. You can mix and match to create an eclectic desert tablescape (above, left) or use tiny ones to decorate small spaces like the area around your welcome table or dinner buffet (above, right).

Crazy about cactus plants and their pretty coral flowers? Use them as place setting decor (which can also double as the guests' favors). Just remember to substitute another type of plant (such as a succulent) on places for child guests. Because some kids prefer to learn the hard way, but not at your wedding.

Unlike more delicate flowers and greenery, cacti can be used in a variety of different styles. Plant them in a glass terrarium and surround them with moss and succulents (this works well for a low centerpiece at a round table). You can also create a cool centerpiece down the length of a long family-style table by clumping bunches of terra cotta pots together (above, right). Displaying at varying heights and then surrounding with flowers in bright colors can also give your decor plenty of contrast (below).

And sometimes the container can be the star of the show! For a vibrant fiesta wedding, use bright aluminum cans (above). For a really dynamic touch, think about adding even more texture to your cacti arrangements by using unconventional holders, like shiny ceramic planters, pineapples, and peat pots (below).

DIY a chic centerpiece by painting half your clay pots white. Then stack on top of each other for a unique twist (below, left). Glam up plain containers by affixing shiny metallic washi tape in your favored design (below, right).

Looking for a large centerpiece to fill a big round table? You don't have to go high to make a statement. Have a florist create giant planters for you filled with Southwest plants and flowers. Whether your palette wants to stick to greenery (above) or delightfully colorful, these planters pack a punch! And trust us, a few might just disappear mysteriously at the end of the night.

And because we can never resist the chance to show you things that merge cute and sweet, we give you this absolutely adorable cake topper and hand-painted macarons. So very creative!

Credits: This Modern Romance | Angela Cox | Tec Petaja | Delbarr Moradi | Chaz Cruz Photographer | Local Milk | Mike Olbinski | Gideon Photography | Sarah Yates | Studio DIY | Justin Lee | Sugar & Cloth | SF Girl By the Bay | Susty Party Blog | Brooke Aliceon | Sugar & Cloth