How to Decorate a Reception Table

It is important to decorate a reception table to match the theme and ambiance of a wedding. The reception is an extension of the marriage ceremony, and the reception table should be both comfortable and elegantly enhance the wedding experience. This article will give you tips as to how to decorate a reception table.

Things You'll Need

• Tablecloths
• Flowers, candles, and other decorative elements to match the theme of the wedding

Instructions

How to Decorate a Reception Table

1. Determine the theme of the wedding. Is it a more casual, colorful affair, or a formal, traditional wedding? Will you need to use candlelight and flowers or balloons and streamers? The theme of the wedding will drive the decoration of the reception tables.

2. Decorate for conversation. It is best not to put tall items down the middle of the table, because this will block conversation with the person across the way. Choose short centerpieces such as small candles, white twinkling lights, decorative stones, or long, twisting flower arrangements.

3. Use your best creative ideas. Sprinkle the table with confetti, shells for a beach wedding, rose petals, or even feathers. Add small mirrors to reflect back the soft light.

4. Make it fun! Add small baskets of disposable cameras so that the guests can take candid pictures as a gift for the bride and groom. At each place setting, include a "fun fact" about the bride and groom as conversation starters.

5. Take advantage of what the reception hall offers. Many places already have table clothes you can use. Simply add an elegant or decorative runner down the middle of the table, or drape the table with garlands, bows, and bells.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with the bride and groom before you decorate! The wedding couple may have firm ideas of what they want at their reception.

• Be careful when using candles, especially if at an outdoor wedding. Do not surround the candles with flammable materials such as paper confetti.

Resources

• Wedding themes and more