Photographer Credit: Seeking Films Photography

One of the most fun parts of designing a wedding (in our opinion) is creating a beautiful tablescape for the reception space. We wholeheartedly believe that a well designed table sets the tone for the entire celebration.

Here is our step by step process of creating a thoughtful wedding tablescape…

Inspiration

First and foremost, compile a ton of inspiration photos. Create a wedding tabletop Pinterest board (or image folder on your computer) and save everything that makes your heart flutter. Look for photos that capture a wide range of content (tables, linens, flatware, flowers, plates, etc…). Whether that is a certain color palette, feeling you want to radiate, or specific styling details you want to include; the more photos saved, the easier it will be to see a pattern emerge!

Color Palette

Before you begin choosing specific design details, you need to determine your color palette as this will be the deciding factor on decor elements. Here’s a basic trick on designing a wedding color palette that is cohesive and keeps things interesting.

Photographer Credit: Christie Pham Photography

Choose a foundation color

The foundation color is a neutral tone that everything is built on top of. This will set the underlying tone of your tablescape.

A couple examples of a foundation color would be wood farm tables or white table linens.

Choose a principle color

The principle color is the theme color of your wedding. We recommend choosing a color that stays true to the overall vibe you want to create and one you genuinely love! Keep in mind the principle color can encompass a range of similar tones.

A great example of this is the color of flowers in your centerpiece.

Choose an accent color

The accent colors are complementary colors that add dimension and variation, but with a smaller footprint. It can be anything from bold, contrasting hues to neutral tones.

An example of this would be gold flatware, gold table number frames, and gold foil accents throughout the event.

Determine Details

Once you’ve determined the theme within your inspiration photos and color palette, you can decide on specific details.

Tables

When it comes to selecting tables, you can either do all round tables; all rectangular tables; or our favorite, a combination of both! The size and shape of the tables are going to be dependent on a few factors: the reception space size, the guest count, and the dinner menu. First, think about how many people you need to seat in total and then work backwards. If your meal is being served family style, opt for a bigger table to accommodate platters of food. Here are common tables used:

60” round = seats 6-8
66” round = seats 8-10
72” round = seats 10-12
6’x30” banquet = seats 6
8’x30” banquet = seats 8
8’x48” banquet = seats 8-10

Linens

After deciding the size and shape of your tables, you then need to decide on linens (unless you are using farm tables). Linens come in various colors, fabrics, and textures. Consider your color palette to decide what color and fabric you want to be the anchor. Keep in mind, this is a great area to incorporate the foundational color. You can either select multiple linen colors (especially if you want a table runner as well); or stick with one solid color for a clean look. Regardless, remember to select a linen size that is floor length to hide those pesky table legs!

Once you’ve selected your table linens, move on to your napkin. Just like the table linens, napkins come in selected colors and fabrics. This is the perfect opportunity to add a pop of color or tone down an area where color is used. Nevertheless, be sure to select a napkin that matches your color scheme and is functional for guests to use. (If you need ideas on various napkin folds, check out our Pinterest board here)

Chairs

Chairs can make a statement, so make sure they complement the table, design, and space. You want it to enhance the tablescape, not conflict with it. Take in consideration your budget as chairs can add up. Here are some common chairs we love to use:

Crossback chair - for a more rustic or boho design
Chiavari chair - for a more elegant or formal design
Bamboo chair - for a fun tropical vibe

Dinnerware, flatware, glassware

Now that you’ve decided on the base, you can begin selecting your table top pieces. There are endless combinations when it comes to creating your table setting. Do you want a charger? What combination of cutlery do you want? Do you want a water goblet, wine glass, and champagne flute at the table? What color of flatware? Like I said... the options are endless!! A great place to start is first evaluate your budget, dinner menu, and style of service you want. Tableware can get pricey, so consider those three factors in the beginning to help narrow your final decisions.

If you are unsure of where to start, here is the minimum things needed for your place setting:

Dinner plate
Dinner fork
Dinner knife
Water glass

If you are having a formal dinner service or simply want to elevate the overall table decor, here are add on items you can include:

Charger
Salad plate
Teaspoon
Dessert fork
Wine glass(s)
Champagne flute

Once you have decided on your tableware, you need to plan how it is going to be laid out. Depending on the type of dinner service you are having, there are various ways this can be done. Here are two basic diagrams that represent a casual place setting and a more formal place setting:

Like I said- there are various ways you can set your table. Just always remember, flatware works from outside in; and glassware works from left to right, starting with your water glass.

Photographer Credit: Taimane Photogrpahy

Centerpieces

Centerpieces are the most important statement piece for the table because it ties in all the design elements together. Floral arrangements and accents add texture, color, and add life to the table decor. Do you like tall or short centerpieces? Whatever your preference, either go very high or stay low to ensure that they won’t block the guests view.

Lighting

The last thing you want to forget is lighting. We always recommend adding candles to your tablescape, whether that is tapered candles or votive candles. Candles add a warm ambiance and can completely transform your design.

Stationery

Last but not least, determine what type of stationery you want to include. This can include table numbers, dinner menus, and place cards. Guests love having important information readily accessible, so designing beautiful menus or cards adds another design layer to your place setting. Not to mention, this is the perfect opportunity for you to get creative and add personal touches.

We hope our step by step process helps you in designing the perfect tablescape for you and guests!

HOW TO DESIGN YOUR TABLESCAPE

Inspiration