How to guides Choosing Wedding Table Decorations

Wedding Table Decorations

It is traditional to decorate a wedding with flowers. Flowers have a unique ability to be both aesthetically pleasing and to silently communicate strong emotions. The use of flowers during a wedding acts as a thread which runs through the entire occasion, bringing a level of consistency across, in many cases, multiple venues. A theme is often chosen for the wedding and the flowers will be a prominent way of bringing this theme together. Flowers are carried by the bride and the bridesmaids and are worn by the groom, his party and members of the congregation. The flowers are also used as decoration. The church or place of worship can be respectfully adorned using flowers and the flower arrangements are an integral part to the decorations used at the reception.

The origin of table decorations

The first recorded use of flowers at weddings was by the ancient Greeks who believed flowers and herbs would keep evil spirits from entering the hearts of the wedding couple and bring about a happy marriage. Flowers have been incorporated into the wedding ever since. Using plants as table decorations during a wedding dates back to when herbs were still used as part of the arrangement. During this time a so-called kissing knot arrangement of rosemary and roses was placed above the heads of the bride and groom when they were sat at the top table, a tradition believed to bring love and luck to the couple. To compliment this, small floral decorations were placed beside each of the guests as a token of happiness.

Table decorations

Table decorations are a centrepiece placed in the middle of each table at the wedding reception. The decoration of the table is very important as it is the main ornamental focus for the guests, making them feel like an important part of the special day. The décor used on the tables sets the mood for the whole reception. It may also act as a talking point or an ice breaker for guests who are not closely acquainted with one another. The flowers that are chosen for the table can be complimented by balloons, crystals and candles. Pre-designed table decorations can be bought, or, as is often the preference, bespoke arrangements can be specifically designed for the occasion.

Table decorations are traditionally placed as follows:

• The main table decoration in the centre of the table, known as the centrepiece adds completeness to the reception decoration. It can be as simple or as lavish as befits the overall theme and any other arrangements in the venue.
• Each guest's table setting can also be decorated. Flowers are often placed on the napkin next to each guest, to give each person a small, individual, floral gesture. This harks back to a time when commemorative wedding favours were given to each guest by the family of the groom.
• Petals can be scattered on the table to add romance to the decorations. They can also be used to mark out the place settings.
• The back of the guest's chairs can also be decorated with flowers, complimenting the main table decorations. Chair decorations are often offset with a ribbon tied in a bow or a specially chosen type of linen.

Types of table decoration

The table decoration chosen will depend upon the size of the table, as well as the design of the reception and the atmosphere that the bride wishes to create. An elegant, yet fairly low key centrepiece can be based around orchids, which represent beauty love and refinement. They can be complimented by green leaves and beads for extra detail. A slightly more unusual choice for the centrepiece is allium which, although a simple choice, attracts attention. Allium symbolises unity and patience so is a perfect choice for a wedding. Daisies offer a fresh, playful feel to an arrangement. They represent loyalty, romance and gentleness. Large headed, Michaelmas daisies look very effective simply placed in a silver bucket.

The table decoration can be well structured in a simple round arrangement. If desired, further interest can be engendered by adding height to the arrangement with long thin leaves, such as grasses. Another choice would be to have a long, less structured spray of flowers. Decorating candles with a ring of flowers is pretty -- or surrounding floating candles with a flower arrangement can give a mystical impression. Do be careful with regard to any fire risk when using a combination of flowers and candles: many guests are likely to be less than entirely sober by the end of the evening! Flowers can also be simply arranged in vases in the centre of the tables. The shape of the table may dictate which arrangement is preferred and should be factored in.

Primary considerations

When choosing the flowers for the table decorations the most important consideration is that the theme ties in with the rest of the wedding. Firstly the bride's dress and the rest of the wedding party's attire should be taken into consideration. The flowers should then be chosen to go with it and with any flowers used by the wedding party. The décor and style of the venue should then be considered and any overall themes that the bride may wish to choose for the day. Fresh flowers can be delicate and will not last much past the wedding day. An alternative choice is thus to use silk flowers, which are resilient and can be kept as a memento.
 

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