how do you style a wedding table

Wedding Table Settings On a Budget

• Don’t cover your tables. The design of your tables could add to the beauty of your table setting.
• Dress up your table with a lot of greenery. This is more cost effective than purchasing flowers.
• Re-use the flowers from your bridesmaids’ bouquets for the table setting in addition to the greenery. ...
• It doesn’t have to cost a fortune to set your wedding table. ...

Full Answer

How to set a formal wedding table?

There are steps to setting a formal wedding table. These are: Make sure the forks sit below the bread plate and butter knife. The dessert spoon and fork sit below the dinner plate. Set the stemware in a way that forms a triangle. The knife is below the water glass with the white wine glass to its lower right, all below the red wine glass.

How do you choose a tablecloth for a wedding?

The tablecloth can be floor length to hide unsightly table legs, or a medium length so guests can easily slide their chairs in and out. If the table is round, measure the diameter and height of the table. Select a color that will complement the color scheme of your wedding. Your table design will be built off your tablecloth color.

Do different wedding styles require different reception tables?

While different wedding styles require different reception tables, there are still a few basic rules you can follow for any reception table setting. Whether you’re having a formal reception, a laid-back dinner, or a highly themed event, it’s important that you properly set the scene for your meal.

How do you decorate a wedding table for a beach wedding?

Flowers are classic accents for a wedding table. Choose flowers that will complement the venue or color scheme of your wedding. Use differing flower heights to add dimension to the arrangement. Small glass pots of blue or purple hydrangeas set in river stones can add a needed pop of color to an ocean themed wedding.

How do I decorate my wedding table?

DIY Wedding Centrepieces with Flowers & PlantsWine Bottles Sprayed Gold and Filled with Flowers. Pinterest. ... Wicker Baskets with Fresh or Dried Flowers. ... Wooden Crates Filled with Flowers. ... Potted Orchid Centrepieces. ... Painted Pumpkin Vases. ... Bright Flowers in Coloured Glass. ... Buckets Filled with Flowers. ... Decorated Branches.More items...•

What should be on a wedding table?

Your Essential Wedding Reception Table ChecklistTable linen. Whether you spread a traditional table cloth (ensure any fold marks have been ironed out!) ... Centrepieces. ... Candles. ... Table numbers. ... Place cards. ... Glassware. ... Serviettes. ... Advice cards and table trivia.

How can I make my table look beautiful?

1:113:19Easy Tips To Set A Beautiful Table - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFeel tip 2 flowers you always want to put fresh flowers or fresh greenery on your table. So I alwaysMoreFeel tip 2 flowers you always want to put fresh flowers or fresh greenery on your table. So I always have flowers on hand in my house.

What are some good table decorations?

Table AccentsFlower Centerpieces.Table Vases.Decorative Trays.Table Runners.Placemats.Charger Plates.All Candles.Napkin Rings.More items...

How do you arrange a table centerpiece?

0:131:04How to Arrange a Centerpiece for a Circular Table - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWhen arranging a centerpiece for a circular. Table I find it's best to work in odd numbers so oneMoreWhen arranging a centerpiece for a circular. Table I find it's best to work in odd numbers so one larger centerpiece that's maybe slightly taller or raised. Up. This gives it nice height.

What do you scatter on at a wedding table?

Table Diamonds, Paper Confetti, Rose Petals and Metallic Confetti are a lovely addition to your wedding tables. Simply scatter the table sprinkles of your choice on your reception tables for an subtle but elegant finish.

How do you make an elegant table?

0:323:31How To Create An Elegant And Timeless Table Scape - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo get creative with those next layer your Chargers with your plates and salad plates neutral doesMoreSo get creative with those next layer your Chargers with your plates and salad plates neutral does not have to be boring look for textures. And interesting designs. Now add your silverware.

How can I decorate my table cheaply?

2:386:27How to Decorate Tables Cheaply : Table Decorations - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipI got one roll of the burlap ribbon and tied a bow around it. And then just filled the top. And thenMoreI got one roll of the burlap ribbon and tied a bow around it. And then just filled the top. And then I filled it with just colorful bell peppers.

How do you dress a table?

0:321:35Dressing Up Your Dining Room Table - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAdd sparkling napkin rings for a charming jewelry light touch and of course a beautiful vase ofMoreAdd sparkling napkin rings for a charming jewelry light touch and of course a beautiful vase of flowers as a finishing touch try coordinating chair covers.

What can you put on a table instead of flowers?

Lights. Towering globe lights provide a soft glow across your tables. ... Hot Air Balloons. Up, up, and away! ... Seasonally Appropriate. For a fall wedding, gather leaves and pinecones for a beautiful, seasonally-appropriate centerpiece. ... Candelabras. Crystal candelabras add elegance to your tables. ... Games. ... Branches. ... Candles. ... Tea Cups.More items...

What do you put in the center of a table?

Vase, books and stools. Another option is to use a large vase in the center of the table and keep it filled with fresh flowers or cut branches. Arrange stacks of books like spokes of a wheel around the vase, as before.

What do you put inside a centerpiece?

Things to Put in a Centerpiece BowlCandles. Candles are a staple centerpiece item. ... Fruit and Nuts. Sometimes the most decorative item you can put into a bowl are the fruits of the season. ... Flower Petals. ... Marbles and Accessories.

How do you set up a wedding table plan?

Discover how to create a wedding seating chart in 15 simple steps:Get the floor plan. ... Place the DJ or band, food, and other important party add-ons. ... Choose table shapes and sizes. ... Calculate the number of tables needed. ... Use a digital seating chart to place the guest tables. ... Choose the wedding couple's seat.More items...

What do you put in a guest table?

Decorations to ConsiderTable numbers and table number holders.Place cards if you'll be assigning seating for guests.Centerpieces.Napkin holders, placemats, and tablecloths.Labels or signage for dessert, gift and other tables.Florals (leave this to your florist)

Do you put bride and groom on table plan?

Traditionally, the bride and groom would sit at the centre of a long table with the chief bridesmaid, groom's father and bride's mother on one side and the bride's father, groom's mother and best man on the other side. However, not all families fit this mould so it's really up to you how you plan your top table.

Should you seat couples together at a wedding?

Always seat couples at the same table. Anyone who is married, engaged, in a long-term relationship or has brought a date has the right to sit with their partner. If you're having round or square tables, try to seat couples next to one another.

Wedding Styling Tips

Whilst I’m focusing purely on styling your tables today, to ensure consistency, it’s still essential to consider how this element fits into your overall décor scheme.

Hire a wedding stylist!

As an award-winning wedding stylist, I design beautiful weddings across the UK. You can reach me on 0800 772 0765 or [email protected]

What to put on a round table for a wedding reception?

A floral centre piece and candles can make for a chic and classic tablescape.

What is wedding table decor?

Wedding table decor, although sometimes left to the last minute, is a big part of your wedding day and working out how best to style your tables for the reception is a really fun part of the wedding planning process. Your tables fill the room and are where your guests will spend a considerable part of your reception, ...

What is Tablescaping?

Tablescaping is the art of creative table-setting and involves decorating and style a table with well-though out decor, centerpieces and table dressings. Tablescapes are often designed to reflect a theme, season or a special occasion.

What is the theme of a wedding?

Your wedding theme and the wedding decor is all about setting the perfect scene for you and your partner to declare your love. It should be an opportunity to reflect each of your individual characters and your little quirks as a couple. From succulents instead of bouquets to mis-matched crockery in a nod to a Mad Hatter’s tea party, tablescapes and table settings are just another way for you to have a bit of fun and step away from perceived wedding traditions.

Do reception tables need a centrepiece?

Equally, with pared-back ceremonies growing in popularity and rustic charm being the order of the day for many couples, your reception tables don’t always need a dominating centrepiece. We love the laid-back country charm created for this table thanks to an abundance of small jam jar blooms that harmonise with each other perfectly.

Can you use tablescapes for weddings?

Although the perfect opportunity to go all out with table settings, tablescapes aren’t just limited to weddings. We’ve seen the interiors trend take social media by storm in recent years as more and more people are getting creative with table displays for parties, dinners and styled shoots. Some people have even started entering tablescaping competitions!

What is a king's table?

"The king's table is usually an eight-foot by four-foot table used as a head table for family-style appeal ," says Rouffe. "They are a little more modern than the traditional round reception table." King's tables are often surrounded by smaller round or rectangular tables, and their expansive size allows for elaborate centerpieces. However, Rouffe says that this shape isn't very intimate. "This can be considered a con since guests won't be able to chat with everyone seated at their table as easily as with a round table option," she says.

How many people can sit at a round table?

Standard 60-inch and 72-inch round tables comfortably seat anywhere from eight to 12 guests , depending on the meal service and table décor. Round tables are widely available and allow maximum capacity in nearly every venue. What's more, couples will find countess linen options on the market. In terms of centerpieces, Rouffe recommends sticking with shorter floral arrangements; otherwise, blocked site lines will discourage conversation across the table.

What is a sweetheart table?

Having a sweetheart table—a small table for just the newlyweds—can be the perfect solution. The sweetheart table faces out to the reception, and it's near the couple's closest friends and parents. Keep in mind, however, that brides and grooms at sweetheart tables may feel disconnected from guests, who may come up to chat anyway.

How many people can sit on a wooden farmhouse table?

These wooden tables, which are usually around eight-feet by 42-inches, seat a maximum of ten people comfortably.

Can you rent a serpentine table for a wedding reception?

If you want to make a bold design statement, then rent serpentine tables for your wedding reception. Several curved tables are pushed together to create a long, winding, and whimsical piece of furniture, and they're especially impactful if they're large enough to seat all of the guests together. Due to their space requirements, serpentine tables work best at outdoor weddings with much space to spare.

Can you have a single table at a wedding?

Nobody says you need to have a single table style at your wedding! Mixing tables of different shapes and sizes results in a beautiful and unique reception set-up. You can even create custom seating—whether it's a U-shaped or cross-shaped table. Don't be afraid to get creative, and make sure to order the correct linens for your desired set-up!

Can you mix serpentine tables?

Serpentine tables may be the option for you. You could also mix multiple types of table to create a look that best suits your space. After you've learned about the options available, you'll need to think about which table type makes the most sense for your wedding's style and your guests.

How to decorate a wedding table?

Arrange a bouquet of fruits and vegetables to add pops of color to your table. Having an edible bouquet is a clever way to accent the theme and color scheme of your wedding. Pick fruits and vegetables that go with the season or venue you are having your wedding at.

How to make a wedding table look warm?

Add soft lighting to the tables at an evening or outdoor wedding. Place little pockets of lighting on the table to create a warm ambiance at your wedding. It can also tie together any other table elements you might have. Try pairing the lighting elements with contrasting flowers and foliage, or make the lighting display your focal point on your table.

What color tablecloth should I use for a centerpiece?

If your place setting or centerpiece is going to have many multi-colored elements, opt for a tablecloth that is neutrally colored. Neutral tablecloths will balance out the other bold table elements.

What is a good table for a beach wedding?

Plastic folding tables can be inexpensive rentals hidden under sleek tablecloths. These tables will be sturdy enough for your guests to lean on and will allow you to allocate money to other parts of your wedding. Folding tables are a good choice for beach weddings because the moist and gritty sand will not damage the metal legs.

How to bring a wedding to life?

Once you have picked your wedding theme and color scheme, the next step is to bring it to life. One of the best ways to do this is to focus on your table arrangements and centerpieces. Tables play a large role in dictating the wedding atmosphere, as they are often the focal point of a venue. Choosing the right table style and accent pieces will complement and enhance your special day.

How to measure table size?

The dimensions are needed to purchase an appropriately sized tablecloth or a runner. To obtain accurate dimensions, use a measuring tape over a ruler . If you rented your tables from a rental company, the staff will be able to supply you with precise dimensions.

What is a polyester tablecloth?

Polyester blend tablecloths provide a clean look that can easily be dressed up. These are inexpensive and come in a variety of colors and shades to fit any wedding decor. The polyester blend will prevent the linen from wrinkling or creasing during your big day.

How are banquet tables created?

Banquet style tables are created by positioning rectangular tables together end to end , to create one or a handful of long tables for guests, the happy couple, and the bridal party to be seated all together, whether the wedding is large or small.

What is rectangular table?

Perfect for an outdoor reception (with or without a tent) a rectangular table creates a sort of symmetry throughout the space. On the downside, from a catering perspective, you could potentially run into a few hang-ups when it comes to rectangular tables.

What is a sweetheart table?

Sweetheart tables have long been implemented in a reception design, whether a small round, square, or even rectangular table. Creating a point of separation for the bride and groom, the sweetheart table might prove to be a welcome respite amongst the hustle and bustle of the day.

What is a square table?

With more surface area to cover, a square table will easily accommodate a larger centerpiece design (floral or otherwise) and still create a sense of togetherness for guests. Square tables are similar to rounds in that they’ll work in almost any reception space.

How many people can sit at a round table?

As a general rule, standard dimensions make round tables available in 36”, 48”, 60”, and 72”, with enough space to be able to seat 2-4 people, 4-6 people, 8 people, and 10 people per table, respectively. “When it comes to social distancing, every state and county is different on rules, but typically with a 60” round, we are seeing four guests at a table that size to offer substantial space for guests,” says Kelly.

What is the biggest decision in a wedding reception?

The biggest decision (after settling on the location, of course) is perhaps how exactly the room is going to come together. Design elements aside, the question of “Who’s going to sit where?” is preceded by “How many tables can we fit in this space?” and “How many people will this table actually seat?”

How to make your wedding table stand out?

One way to make your wedding stand out from the rest is to add a unique touch to your dinner table. Be it through unexpected centerpieces, detailed menus, or cool and creative dishware, an innovative tablescape may be just what your wedding needs to bring your personality-infused theme to a whole new level. Not sure where to start? Try new colors, shapes, and textures, which can all transform your reception table décor. Here, get inspired by these real wedding table settings, designed for a diverse range of styles, tastes, and needs. Because while falling back on classic decoration is never a bad idea, swapping out tradition for more modern, one-of-a-kind designs can be a really good idea.

What did the Palm Springs bride want her tables to look like?

This Palm Springs bride wanted her tables to look like they were set with rad finds from the flea market —nothing too formal or matchy. Agates, geodes, and a mix of candles were set out along with simple arrangements of fritillaria, cacti, and ranunculus, while brass bracelets doubled as napkin rings.

What kind of dinnerware was used at Palm Springs wedding?

Pastel dinnerware, rose-gold flatware, and menus weighted down with glittery pyrite rocks set the scene for dinner at this Palm Springs wedding, while vintage vases with peach, orange, and white poppies added a bright pop of color.

How to make a place card interesting?

To make menu and place cards more interesting, consider using an atypical shape instead of a square or rectangle. This bike-loving couple included cutouts that topped their yellow-and-white plates, which the pair collected by visiting every nearby Target store. Matching napkins, mixed glassware, modern gold flatware, and woven chargers that had been painted white rounded out the setup.

What flowers are used in a Kentucky wedding?

Long garlands of olive branches, laced with blush-colored roses, and pomegranates decorated wooden farm tables at this Kentucky wedding. As a finishing touch, an olive branch rested atop each napkin.