Using your flower stand is easy. First, assemble it following the included instructions. It's a straightforward process with all the necessary screws and a screwdriver provided. Once assembled, you can place it anywhere you like - at a wedding as a centerpiece, at a party, or in your home for decoration. You can buy a top plate separately to place items on it. When it comes to weight, you can put up to 40 lbs on it as long as you use a flat plate on top. Just be careful how you distribute the weight. As for maintenance, since it's made of metal that's not easy to rust, a simple wipe with a dry cloth every now and then will keep it looking good. Remember, the order only includes the flower stand, so don't expect any other accessories.