The 11 Best Wedding Table Decorations That Will Brighten Up Your Reception

By
Stephanie Montes
Stephanie Montes
Stephanie Montes

Stephanie Montes is a Los Angeles-based fashion and beauty writer with a decade of experience. Most notably, Stephanie served as the beauty director at Zoe Media Group for three-and-a-half years.

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Published on 05/02/22 07:37PM

Brides / Lecia Landis

While every detail in your wedding decor is equally as important as the next, you'd be remiss not to spend a little extra attention on your wedding table decorations. "Table decor helps bring in the elements from your ceremony to the reception—it ties the event altogether," explains McKenzi Taylor. This is where your guests get up close and personal with your wedding decor, and, honestly, it's where they'll spend the most time during your reception.

To help you make sure every detail in your wedding is perfect, we've rounded up all the best decorations to dress your tables, from centerpieces, table numbers, place settings, and more. Taylor tells us, "I've seen everything [on a wedding table] from confetti, candy, colorful floral arrangements, photograph mobiles, crystal centerpieces, and more." Whether you're hosting a romantic rustic retreat or a modern black-tie wedding, there's something for everyone.

Read on for the best wedding table decorations.

Alfie and Gem Boho Rattan Chargers

Alfie and Gem Boho Rattan Chargers

Etsy

Creating the perfect place setting is all about layering texture, and this woven placemat is the perfect place to start for boho or beachy weddings—stack plates one by one, starting with the largest at the bottom for a balanced setting.

Twistionery Wedding Table Numbers

Twistionery Wedding Table Numbers

Amazon

This metallic table number is an elegant option that's also super versatile. Place it on a wooden stand for a rustic theme, display it in a double-sided acrylic frame for a modern soiree, or tuck it inside a bouquet of dried flowers for a boho feel. The best part is that they come ready to use, so it will take the stress out of your decorating.

The Mela Design Co. Custom Round Menu with Wax Seal

The Mela Design Co. Custom Round Menu with Wax Seal

Etsy

A custom-made menu card is a nice touch to any place setting—it gives your guests a preview of the meal ahead and the opportunity to follow along as each delectable course arrives. For a vintage, romantic touch, we love the addition of a wax seal on this menu design.

NUPTIO Metal Flower Trumpet Vase

NUPTIO Metal Flower Trumpet Vase

Amazon

The vase or stand you use in your centerpiece is just as important as the actual flowers you choose to create your bouquet. A higher stand, like this modern one, is perfect for black-tie gatherings and fancier receptions. The sculptural base is airy and open enough that guests will be able to keep conversations flowing across the table.

Nestlings Vintage Brass Candlesticks

Nestlings Vintage Brass Candlesticks

Etsy

Nothing sets a mood for a wedding more than candles, and tall, tapered candlesticks instantly add a touch of elegance to any setting. These golden holders have a weathered, vintage sheen and would work for a variety of reception styles, from rustic to black tie.

High Vibe Honey Co. Gauze Napkins or Cheesecloth Table Runner

High Vibe Honey Co. Gauze Napkins or Cheesecloth Table Runner

Etsy

If the magic is in the details, you don't want to skimp on style when it comes to selecting your table napkins. Swap traditional cloth napkins for a light and airy gauze fabric for an unexpected, romantic feel. Pale hues and pastel colors look beautiful in bohemian settings, while darker tones will feel right at home at a modern reception.

Memorable Wedding Wedding Trivia Napkins

Memorable Wedding Wedding Trivia Napkins

Etsy

Serving hors d'oeuvres and cocktails at your reception? These personalized cocktail napkins feature fun facts and trivia about the happy couple—it's a sweet touch that family and friends will love.

Hooray Days 25 Wedding Table Games

Hooray Days 25 Wedding Table Games

Etsy

Nothing makes a table look more inviting than a group of guests having a good time. These fun cards come in a chic, wedding-appropriate box that fits in perfectly with the rest of your table decor. It's an ice breaker that your guests will actually love.

Willett and Co. Oyster Shell Place Cards

Willett and Co. Oyster Shell Place Cards

Etsy

A gorgeous addition to a nautical and coastal wedding theme, these creative place cards add a beachy touch in a way that still feels formal. The oyster shells are painted with gold trim and embellished with each of your guests' names. It's a place card that doubles as a favor that they'll take home and treasure forever.

Books and Timbers Fairy Tale Pages Wedding Table Runner

Books and Timbers Fairy Tale Pages Wedding Table Runner

Etsy

If you both love to read or are just looking for an update to the traditional cloth table runner, look no further. This creative composition features pages from favorite fairy tale stories to dress the table—it's sure to be a hit in any rustic, woodsy, or outdoor setting.

Picture Perfect Papier Personalized Written in the Stars Coaster

Picture Perfect Papier Personalized Written in the Stars Coaster

Etsy

The perfect accessory for a wedding reception in an observatory, these constellation coasters are as pretty as they are useful. Featuring the couple's astrological signs and names, it's a favor that also works well for a new age-inspired wedding.

Meet the Expert

McKenzi Taylor is the founder of Cactus Collective Weddings and on the board of directors for the Las Vegas chapter of the Wedding International Professionals Association (WIPA).

What to look for in wedding table decorations

First off, make sure to consider your overall wedding decor. Are you hosting a laidback, seaside ceremony or a modern event in an urban art gallery? A black tie event at a museum or a summer camp-themed wedding at a woodland preserve? The wedding table decor should be in alignment with your style, palette, and wedding vibe.

That being said, don't be afraid to mix things up! Sometimes a pop of color or metallic print can add a touch of unexpected whimsy to a table. Modern fonts in table numbers, place cards, and other paper goods can elevate a rustic look and make it feel more contemporary.

FAQ
  • How do I keep table decor in my budget?

    Table decor can run the gamut from very expensive accents to DIY-friendly projects. Since almost any design style can be achieved on any budget, it's important to plan within your means.

    If you're working with a limited budget, upcycling and making things yourself can help offset costs. Put a call out to crafty friends and family members to crowdsource supplies and assistance.

  • Do I need to have table numbers and place cards?

    It's really up to you. If you prefer open seating where your guests can choose where they sit, that's perfectly acceptable. However, keep in mind formal settings and black-tie affairs usually feature assigned seating. It can be helpful for guests to be guided with table numbers and place cards. (It takes the guesswork out of the process!)

  • Does every wedding table require a centerpiece?

    It's not a requirement! While centerpieces act as a focal point for the table, you can get creative with your table decor. Consider table runners down a long table instead of a large, central bouquet, votive candles set within bud vases, or photos in place of the classic centerpiece.

Why Trust Brides

Brides contributor Stephanie Montes has been writing about the latest trends in beauty, fashion, and lifestyle for over 10 years. Stephanie's bylines have also appeared on Elle, Byrdie, Who What Wear, Women's Health, Well + Good, and more. She keeps her finger on the shopping pulse, including the best in gifts at all price points.

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