Centerpieces for rectangle tables?

I agree with candles! I think varying heights of things will look really nice.

What we did was to have basically a row of centerpieces. So like a cluster following the path of a runner if that makes sense. A line of things down the center of the table. It worked out great. I agree that one thing is the center can look very odd with rectangular tables.

I think your idea of one lantern with a slim vase on either end is a great one. Small white votive candles might help fill in the table more along the length of it, and they're pretty inexpensive. Wal Mart sells packs of 12 for $5.99.

We are having banquet tables too, with 4-5 bud vases on each and small, white votive candles. But that is all I'm doing for our reception tables! I think simple is beautiful.

My tables are long as well with the same theme. I bought a lot of candle holders/bottles of all different heights and am painting them gold. Some will have candles and some a flower. They will line the table. Also doing a long green garland with a few flowers on it

Also with this garland or something similar

My tables are rectangular too. I'm doing a long, low glass vase with some candles on each side to fill it up a bit. I thought just one vase would look kinda empty.

I think the lantern and vase on each end would look great I love long tables.

We also had long rectangular tables. I did a greenery runner down each table with smaller vases scattered throughout. Our table numbers were in gold rectangular frames towards the end of each table.