How To Set a Fabulous Reception Table

Floral centerpieces may be the crown jewel of the reception table, but it takes linens, chargers, and even menus to pull it all together.

Think reception tables don't leave much room for creativity? Think again. Imagine a reception table as a giant jigsaw puzzle, and each component (the tablecloth, the dinner plate, the menu card) is but one piece. Take a tip from renowned event designer David Beahm, president of David Beahm Design: "When you're looking at designing a room, think of the big picture. What do people see when they first walk in? You want something that pulls them into the room and gets them talking."

Tablecloths

Tablecloths should be functional enough to hold crumbs and soak up spills from clumsy guests, but they should also be decorative, laying the groundwork for what will become your ultimate tablescape.

The Trend: Textured cloths. "Never put on a white cloth -- that's the number one rule," Beahm says. Not only is it boring, but white doesn't read well on camera, and you want to make sure your photographs will do the room justice. Table coverings run the gamut from lace and linen to cotton and crushed velvet; you can add personality with stripes, or even a bold damask pattern. Take a cue from the formality of your event: gingham is the perfect complement to a casual, garden-chic wedding, while silk dupioni sets the stage for a black-tie, ballroom affair.