Table Decorating Ideas for a Wedding

The right table decorating ideas for a wedding can turn functional furniture into an integral part of the décor, creating a beautiful tableau for the reception and the beginning of a couple’s happily ever after.

Head Table Decoratoins

When deciding how to decorate tables at a wedding, the first thing to understand is what different types of tables will need to be decorated. Depending on the style of the wedding reception, tables may include:

• Head Table: This is usually a long table for the bride and groom, their parents, and possibly the bridal party.
• Sweetheart Table: This is a more intimate table for just the bride and groom.
• Cake Table: The wedding cake is undoubtedly a showpiece of the reception, and its table should be decorated accordingly.
• Buffet Table: If the meal or snacks will be served buffet-style, the table will require some decorative accents.
• Guest Tables: From just a few to a few dozen, each guest table should be coordinated.
• Signing Table: This table may have frame for guests to add sentiments to, an elaborate guestbook, or other way for guests to offer individual comments.
• DJ Booth: A DJ will require a large table for the music equipment, and decorating it appropriately will make it a part of the reception rather than pile of electronics.
• Gift Table: Though it is better etiquette not to bring gifts to the wedding reception, couples may need to be prepared with this type of table space.
• Grooms Table: A table with the grooms cake that shows the grooms interests.

With so many tables to decorate, a couple’s budget could be stretched thinner than a table cloth when choosing how to make each table attractive. There are many easy ways to decorate tables, however, without excessive spending on wedding reception decorations.

10 Table Decorating Ideas

The shape and arrangement of tables is a subtle but powerful decorative element. Small round or oval tables are more elegant than rectangular tables, and arranging tables in clusters encourages conversation and mingling. Buffet tables may be arranged in a U-shape or other format for more distinction than a straight line. Adding a backdrop behind the head table or cake table can also accentuate the decorations and create a picture perfect setting.

Classic white table cloths are the most common choice for weddings, but they are also the most predictable. Use these easy ideas for unique table cloths to add flair and distinction to the table decorations:

• Choose colored cloths for more dramatic palettes that will also conceal stains more easily
• Use streamers, ribbons, or layered cloth napkins to create a central runner or add color to the table cloth
• Choose patterned or lace cloths for more textural detail
• Drape cloths along the edges of the table for greater visual impact

Adding lightly sprinkled items is a fast and inexpensive way to decorate wedding tables. Sprinkles can be combined with centerpieces or used on their own for more simple designs. Popular items to sprinkle on tables include:

• Glitter or confetti that matches the wedding colors
• Rose petals or other flower petals
• Autumn leaves for a fall wedding
• Faux ice cubes for a winter wedding
• Glass beads or rocks
• Mini rose buds
• Small sea shells

How a reception is lit can greatly enhance table decorations, and many table decorating ideas for a wedding incorporate different light sources as part of the décor. Options include:

• Candle centerpieces or tea lights as centerpiece accents
• Floating candles or candles on mirrors to reflect the light
• Twinkle lights strung along the sides of the table and wrapped in tulle or lace
• Rope lights along the edges of the table

12 Wedding Centerpiece Ideas

Centerpieces are the most common way to decorate tables at weddings, but a centerpiece can be more than just a pretty bouquet of flowers. Try these centerpiece ideas for unique and beautiful decorations.

• Alternate short and tall centerpieces to provide layers of decorations
• Incorporate the bridesmaids’ bouquets and bridal bouquet as part of the centerpieces to save money
• Use unusual items such as autumn leaves, ice sculptures, mirrors, or picture frames as part of distinctive centerpieces
• Create breakaway centerpieces that can double as wedding favors
• Create edible centerpieces for tasty decorations, such as carved vegetables, a fruit bowl, salt water taffy for a beach wedding, or other delectable treats

Extending table decorations to the edge of the table will create stunning place settings that add to the overall décor of the event. While place settings must be functional, these tips can make them beautiful as well.

• Choose upgraded china, cutlery, and glasses for immediate elegance
• Use elaborately folded napkins to decorate individual plates
• Add place cards to assist with seating charts and add a formal flair
• Coordinate colors of china, napkins, table cloths, and other items for an integrated, professional look
• Decorate chairs with covers or ribbons to further extend the décor

It is easy to go overboard with table decorations, and couples must remember that many times the simple approach is elegant and beautiful (as well as more economical). Other things to avoid include:

• Crowded place settings that can be difficult for guests to enjoy their meals
• Tables with too many guests seated at them
• Centerpieces that are too large and block conversation

With care and planning, it is easy to incorporate many table decorating ideas for a wedding that can create a stunning wedding reception setting for beautiful pictures, an elegant event, and gorgeous memories.

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• Category:Wedding Decoration