reception table design

By Kassandra Garcia
Photos by Kassandra Garcia

When it comes to designing every little detail in your wedding, you want unique reception tables that you and your guests will absolutely love! As you begin putting it all together, there are so many ways to make it memorable and one of a kind, without forgetting the traditional place setting. The design and decor of your reception tables is going to be the first thing your guests see as they take their seats. The sweetheart table, where the attention will be directed at your grand entrance, also gives you the opportunity to add anything else you would like.

​Traditional Place Setting
We have seen so many different designs while having the pleasure of serving people on their special day. From DIY intimate weddings to large-scale, high-end receptions, any idea can come to life to match your theme and the atmosphere of the location, with a little organization. To begin, choose a color scheme and style you want to show at each table.

Anywhere in your design, you can add a pop of color or have every table setting match. As seen in the photo above, the couple chose to have assorted styles and colors of water goblets. The kind of glassware needed will be determined by the beverages served or if you have a designated time during your reception for a toast.

When it comes to the actual plate, most use traditional china or the trendy eco-friendly option of biodegradable bamboo plates to add a rustic touch. Both options come in many different sizes and shapes. Each can be paired with a charger or placemat if you wish!

As you look into choosing your cutlery, take into consideration your menu and what would be needed for each course. Based on your budget, you can keep one set throughout the reception, which would include the basic fork, knife, and spoon, or provide a set for each entree.

Now onto the linens:  this is where you can do the most because there are so many different options! We have seen people create their own runners or special table linen for the sweetheart table, but others want to stick with a more traditional look. As pictured below, a simple runner and beautiful candles, surrounded by votives and plants, can do the job.

My favorite part of decor are the napkins because there is an art to them. You can use disposable ones, choose a fold with linen napkins that can hold the cutlery, or simply provide an accent color to your design.

For your place setting, here are some options:

• Charger
• Dinner Plate
• Salad Plate
• Salad Fork
• Dinner Fork
• Dinner Knife
• Teaspoon
• Soup Spoon
• Cake Fork
• Water Glass
• Wine Glass
• Napkin
• Napkin Ring
• Napkin Accent
• Place Card
• Place Card Holder
• Placemat
• Menu
• Favor

Accent Decor
​Anything special to you can be used as accent decor, even if you only have a few things. They can add that personal touch! Many love designing a seating chart and providing place cards that are easy to make and mean so much to your guests. You can simply buy a metallic marker and write on tiles, use printable folded place cards, or even make customized coasters as seen in the first picture.

For your accent decor, here are some suggestions:

• Table Number
• Centerpiece

• Garland
• Table Runner
• Tablecloth

• Vases
• Candlesticks
• Votives

• Wood art
• Lanterns
• Potted Plants
• Succulent Terrariums
• Personal Items (Family Heirlooms, Photo Frames, Antique Finds, etc.)

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​We hope this blog helps give you some guidance and a few tips as you start planning for your big day!