Different Wedding Tables

Monday, April 14, 2014

Different Wedding Tables

Set up a table specifically for desserts.

When planning a wedding, there are an array of table styles to consider. Not only do guests need a place to sit during the reception, but a couple must also provide a place to collect gifts, display the wedding cake and desserts and serve the food, among other things. Understanding different wedding table options, as well as ways to decorate them, will get you one step closer to the wedding of your dreams.

Head

The head table is traditionally where the newlywed couple and bridal party sit during the reception. This table is typically a long rectangle with the couple seated in the middle and the bridesmaids and groomsmen on either side - with everyone seated facing the reception and guests. Couples might also choose to create a sweetheart table where only the bride and groom sit, and assign seats for the bridal party with other guests. Whichever style of table, it should be decorated with tablecloths, with bustles in the front for added elegance. Don't use flowers or centerpieces that will obstruct the guests' view of the bride and groom; instead, put the bouquets from the wedding ceremony into vases to create short floral centerpieces.

Guest

There are a variety of seating options for wedding guests at a reception. Round tables are a wedding favorite as they allow everyone to chat and see each other. Use a centerpiece in the middle of the table that guests can see around, such as a short square vase filled with hydrangeas or a tall, skinny vase with feathers or calla lilies towering overhead. A square table is another option. This modern style can typically fit eight guests per table - although trying to squeeze in another seat will be difficult. Again, short centerpieces are ideal with this style. Some wedding coordinators might pick a rectangular table for guests that are joined to create a long stretch of table and chairs. Decorate this table all along its length with short bouquets or candles and tea lights connecting it all.

Food and Dessert

If the food is being served buffet-style, coordinators will need a long rectangular table. Guests should be able to grab a plate at one end and move down the table collecting their food. If there isn't much space available, place it against a wall. Otherwise, allow guests to walk down either side of the table to get their food. The dessert table should showcase the treats on a small round or square table set in a prominent location of the venue. Decorate with a tablecloth that works with the wedding's theme or color scheme. The wedding cake should have a prominent table, decorated to coordinate with the theme as well.

Gift and Guestbook

Guests need a place to set the gift they've purchased for the couple, so provide them with some sort of gift table. This can be square or round, and can be pushed flush against a wall or in a corner. Again, use a tablecloth to decorate the table. Also, provide a place for guests to sign the guest book. This should be at a comfortable height for adults to write. A podium by the door would be ideal.

Other Tables

Consider any other tables that might be needed at the wedding. If there's a DJ, ask if he'll need a place to set up his equipment and what style or shape of table he would prefer. Couples might also want to include cocktail tables around the venue. These tables don't have to be accompanied by chairs; instead, they should be high enough that people can stand around and use them without having to hunch over. Wedding tables can also be used to hold decorations, such as ice sculptures or extra flower arrangements. Check with the vendor creating these decorations to see what style would best fit the look.

Century bird cages

Monday, April 14, 2014