How to Decorate for a Wedding Reception

Decorating for a wedding reception can be simple & elegant or detailed and sophisticated. Either way, with these tips, you will be able to turn the wedding reception into a memorable moment.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Helpers
• Centerpieces
• Name Cards (optional)
• Table Clothes
• Guest Favors
• Napkin Rings (optional)
• Chair Covers (optional)
• Flowers (optional)

1. Colors & Theme. The reception should revolve around the colors/theme of the wedding. Also, the time of day for the reception determines the decorations, as well. If in the evening, you can use tall candles with or without flowers, in addition to the centerpieces. If in the morning or afternoon, stick to full flower bouquets with shorter candles.

2. 
    

   Centerpieces. Depending on the wedding reception budget, determines how many centerpieces. Also, the size of the table (seating 6, 8 or 10) will determine how many you need as well. For example, they can be small and simple: flower bouquets, small pebbles in water on a mirror (put a few drops of food coloring to match)or large stones in sand. Centerpieces can be grand and elegant: long-stem calilies in a tall glass vase, rose bouquets or a bowl of water with floating rose petals and/or candles.

3. 
    

   Tables & Coverings. To go for a standard, simple look, use colored tablecloths. For an elegant reception, use white tablecloths with colored accents: napkins, name cards, etc. Make sure to have a special table for the bride, groom and wedding party. Another table for the cake and a separate table for the gifts. Each should have a centerpiece.
   ** You can put confetti on the gift table. Flower petals (that match the wedding party's flowers) on the cake table looks beautiful.
   **Napkin rings add an excellent flare.

4. 
    

   Chairs. Chair covers tied beautifully in the back transform the room from simple to romantic. You can buy them, but may be better off renting. Look them up (wedding chair covers) online for your area.

5. Name Cards. If guests will have assigned seating, you must use name cards. You can make them yourself by buying blank cards from an office supply store. You can also use business card paper if the cards have something to rest on so guests can see them or purchase place card holders.

6. Guest Favors. If each guest is going to receive a favor from the happy couple, you have some options. The favors could be on a table that guests see as they enter the reception. Another option is putting the favor at each place setting (depending on the size of favors). A third option is to put them near the exit door for guests to pick up as they leave.
   Favor Suggestions: small boxes, tins or satin bags of candy or mints; mini picture frames, crosses, champagne glasses or candles. Any of these can be personalized.

7. Helpers. If you are putting centerpieces together, this alone may take you days. Ask for assistance from the wedding party and/or family.

[athome]

on 3/12/2009 My son is getting married in June I will forward this to my soon to-be daughter in law 5*