With the I Dos shared and the party on the way, it’s time to turn your thoughts to how your reception tables will look. For some couples this will be a very important part of their overall wedding style and they’ll want to add lots of extras. If extra styling isn’t your thing, that’s perfectly fine too.
Your tables should do two things, look beautiful and most importantly, serve a practical purpose. It’s important to get the balance of style and substance just right – we hope this guide will help you decide how your tables will look…
What your tables need:
Cutlery: If you have chosen a hotel style venue, this will be included in your package. For other style venues you may have to hire cutlery as part of a dining package from either your caterer or decor stylist.
Glassware: Again, like cutlery your glassware will likely be provided, do ensure each setting has the appropriate glassware to include toasts etc.
Crockery: Your hotel or caterers will provide the crockery, but again you have the option of choosing a specific style, charger plates etc from decor stylists.
Stationery: Keep things simple with your table stationery by including it in your initial wedding stationery order. Things you may want to add to your tables includes, table names or numbers, place name cards, menu card, wine/cocktail list and a table plan.
Additional styling to consider:
Florals: From tall centrepieces to simple bud vases arrangements, this is one area that will add atmosphere and colour to your overall look, but it’s also one area that can quickly add up. Speak to your florist and take their advice on what they suggest so you don’t go over budget, or run out of space on the tables for the essentials. Round tables work well with a round arrangement in the centre, whilst long banquet tables really shine with long garland type displays.
Favours: Adding favour cards for a charity donation is a lovely way of paying tribute to a loved one.
Candles: Before you choose to include candles, check that your venue allow naked flame. Many will request that all candles are in holders or glass cylinders, so it’s best to know your options before ordering any. Candle light does give immediate atmosphere to any space and are a beautiful way of adding some extra colour.
Table linen: Your linen choices are where you have lots of exciting options, especially in 2024 as patterned table linen is having a moment! Speak with your wedding co-ordinator about their options or look to hiring table linen if you are after something different such as linen, pattern or silk. Don’t forget the addition of napkins will really make your table dazzle.
Styling Tips
Know your overall vision: If you have a vision in mind speak to your wedding co-ordinator first. From this meeting you will know if your venue can provide what you want or if you will have to hire pieces in from decor stylists. Find a fabulous bunch of stylist and decor professionals here.
Choose your top priority in line with your budget: Adding extra details to your reception space will add extra onto your budget. If you are being strict with it, choose the one or two key things and run with those.
Make sure all suppliers know your styling choices on the day: If you are hiring in items make sure your wedding co-ordinator knows exactly what’s coming and who will be setting everything up.
(Images: Stargaze Photography)
