Hi there!
I've been on the hunt for 2 pedestals to place on either side of the alter to put large floral arrangements. All I can find are ionic column rentals which doesn't particularly go with the way I have envisioned the wedding. Has anyone done something different or have any ideas? Particularly nothing crazy expensive (I've got bigger things to spend my budget on! ha)
Re: Alternative to alter pillars, HELP!
Not sure where you live but I just googled pillar rentals for weddings and got a ton of hits for a variety of different pillars. I would try every rental company in your area. You could also ask a local church if they would be interested in renting you pillars.
You could easily make by nailing together 2x4s, putting a square piece of wood on top and bottom and then painting whatever colour you want. Shouldn't be more than $100 and a few hours of your time.
What look are you going for? if it's rustic, you could use apple crates. If it's modern, you could use simple wire plant holders (check Home Depot).
You could buy two trees from your local garden center to flank your ceremony space and plant them after your wedding.