How to Style Your Reception Tables

By Heather Rouffe, Atlas Event Rental

Reception table design involves many elements and goes beyond your basic linen and centerpiece. So what do you need to know?

Where to Begin

First, explore different looks and choose your color palette. If you wish, you can also select a theme. Early on, have a realistic conversation about your budget so you are clear on what you have to work with. Also, confirm what your venue provides and if it matches your style.

Select the Basics

A visit to your rental supplier is the perfect opportunity to try mixing and matching table pieces. At a minimum, you will need a linen, chairs, napkins, flatware, and glassware. If your budget allows, all of these can be upgraded. A tabletop charger is not a requirement, but it is nice to have and usually does not break the bank.

Take it Up a Notch

A moderate bump in the budget to upgrade your linens and chairs can really transform your look. Go from basic white or ivory linen to something colorful with texture or sparkle, and folding to a Chivari or ballroom chair. Few people realize the dramatic impact that an upgraded linen and a specialty chair, together, can make on a room.

Meeting Necessities 

Bring photos and samples of your ideas to your rental appointment. Helpful items include shots of floral centerpieces you love, color swatches, styles that appeal, cake details and even your place cards. Also, ask your venue if you can borrow a charger or a sample piece of china as it makes a big impact on your overall design.

Be Realistic
Understand that inspiration photos are usually unattainable at any cost. They were meant to intrigue, not to scale to an actual event. If your budget is limited, except that you can’t have everything – but trust that we will help you assemble something great.

The tabletop design doesn’t have to be a mystery. If you get too lost in the details, turn to your trusted rental supplier for guidance. We are here to help!

Heather Rouffe is the Director of Sales and Partner of Atlas Event Rental, a full-service event rental industry serving the Southern Florida market for over 30 years based. Recently named one of the top 30 rental companies in the US by Special Events Magazine, Atlas provides top quality merchandise and unparalleled customer service to each and every customer.

Photography provided by:

Krystal Zaskey Photography – http://www.krystalzaskeyphotography.com/

PS Photography – http://psphotographyandfilms.com/weddings/

Ray Santana Photography – https://www.raysantanaphotography.com/