This Stylish Centerpiece Might Be Hiding in Your Crisper Drawer

About two months ago, my family and I moved to Buenos Aires, Argentina. As I started to get to know our new home, I fell in love with the country’s vast network of flea markets. One day, while exploring one of those markets, I came across a peculiar little piece I’d never seen before: the celery vase. 

These vintage glass vessels have a distinct look, like a combination of a wine glass, a vase, and a Champagne flute. As it turns out, this odd little vase has a rich history — and it’s been making a major comeback on social media. Antique-lovers everywhere are seeking out the celery vase, and bringing it back into tablescapes once again. Who knew such chic decor was hiding in the grocery store produce aisle?

Although you could use it for florals, the celery vase was actually designed to display celery. According to the Art Institute of Chicago, “Celery was considered an expensive luxury food in the mid-19th century.” In fact, the now-humble crunchy vegetable used to cost more than caviar! Displaying bunches of celery on either ends of the dinner table was considered an elegant status symbol in the Victorian Era. 

Thankfully, nowadays, celery can be found for a reasonable price at your local grocery store. So for your next dinner party — or even just for a break from your regular florals — skip the pricey bouquets and go straight for the produce. You might even have some already in your fridge! With a chic little celery vase to display it in, celery can be an inexpensive centerpiece perfect for an upcoming dinner party or just a casual arrangement for your coffee table that’s sure to spark conversation. (And let’s face it: Popping celery sticks in water with ice cubes is also much easier than arranging a bouquet!)

You probably know where to get celery, but what about the vase? I bet you’ve seen plenty of celery vases at the thrift store without knowing, and once you recognize their form you’ll be seeing this iconic tableware everywhere. Generally tall and narrow with a short stem, pedestal base, and a V-shaped flared body, this elegant silhouette is designed to elevate celery stalks while creating a dramatic effect on the table. In the past, paneled or fluted ornate designs were more common and often sold as a set. Those rarer antiques tend to be more expensive, so I keep my eyes peeled for simple pressed glass versions.

I haven’t had much luck finding two of the same celery vases, but I like variety. Last time I went antiquing, I opted for a duo with different heights and bases, which I ultimately felt added more visual interest to my table. But to ensure these pieces complemented each other, I chose two gorgeous designs with similar wavy glass rims. Consider this your sign to be on the lookout for this quirky little vintage gem — it’s probably the easiest (and cheapest) way to wow your dinner guests this holiday season. I’m on the hunt for one more piece to complete my collection so I can create a whimsical trio for my own holiday table.