Think back to any large wedding reception or corporate event you’ve attended and you’ll likely recall an abundance of one thing – tables! Tables can take up quite a bit of square footage within your venue space, so take advantage of them. Function and flair converge with tablescapes that set the tone and ambiance for your event.
Linens, place settings, glassware, and centerpieces can make a dramatic statement, create a rustic and relaxed vibe, or transform a blank space into an enchanted garden. Whatever your vision is, a thoughtfully-designed tablescape can help bring it to life!
There’s no shortage of tablescape ideas available on Pinterest and online blogs, but with so many ideas flooding your imagination, your own vision and style can get lost in the mix.
Take the tablescape piece-by-piece and build a custom look from the bottom up!
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Linens
If you’ve started to plan your wedding, you may have already chosen a color scheme, but don’t feel like you have to match your tablecloths and napkins to your bridesmaids’ dresses. Instead, consider the big picture. Your linens can reflect the style of your event (sophisticated, glamorous, modern, festive, etc), so choose tablecloths, runners, and napkins that will complement the look and feel of your reception. Play with texture (like lace, natural burlap, or sequined linens) – and don’t be afraid to mix and match.
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Place settings
The plates, flatware, and drinking glasses (water, wine, champagne) you choose can elevate your table – but keep your overall theme in mind. Chargers are purely decorative but come in an array of colors, textures, and patterns. Chargers, china, flatware and glasses don’t have to match – but there should be some element that ties them all together to present a cohesive look.
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Centerpieces
The centerpiece of a table speaks volumes about the tone of your event. A tall, elegant floral arrangement with candles might be perfect for a formal event, but if you want your guests to kick back at the table and chat, you may want to think about a centerpiece that won’t obstruct conversations.
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Personal Touches
- If you are creating a seating chart, consider table numbers and place cards that coordinate with your décor. Instead of a simple place card written in calligraphy, consider personal laser-cut names to place on each charger for an elegant touch. For a country-chic reception, individual names written on bark will add a touch of rustic beauty to the table. Having a vineyard wedding? Use corks to display each name!
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Favors
- Some brides and grooms incorporate wedding favors for their guests into the tablescape. Here are a few favors that can complement the decor:
- Individually potted succulents
- Wine glasses, copper mugs, or champagne flutes
- Personalized candles
- Small, beautifully packaged treats, truffles, or macarons
Don’t forget the kids table! The tablescape for the children attending should be kid-friendly, colorful, and entertaining. Elements from the other reception tables can be intermingled with special items just for the kids, like crayons and coloring books, candy, bubbles, and disposable cameras so they can capture their favorite memories of the night.
