Author: The Flower Lady

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CENTERPIECE CONSIDERATION

How do you know what centerpiece to pair with what reception table? Wedding reception traditions have begun to change dramatically in the last 5 years, from traditional 60”/72” round tables to 40” square or 8’ long banquet tables stacked end to end. These changes can make it difficult to choose the right centerpiece for your wedding look. In this article, we will discuss the different types of centerpieces, reception table styles and how to choose the right centerpiece.

Types of Centerpiece Arrangements

            As there are many types of arrangements, this article will focus on the designs most commonly used in wedding receptions. The current reception trends encourage couples to boldly use color and shape to create dramatic effects. Go beyond the common look and mix up your centerpiece arrangement styles and sizes. For example, throw in several tall (vertical) arrangements in with your low horizontal arrangements when using long banquet tables. Or mix in tall (vertical) arrangements with low round arrangements when using 60”/72” banquet tables. Consider varying color combinations and floral materials.

Round/Oval Arrangement – contains floral materials that outline and fill in the shape of a sphere of oval. This arrangement looks the same from any side and is under 12” tall (to ensure guests can communicate without an obstructed view) and less than 24” in diameter. The round arrangement can be used on any style table.

Picture:  Al Fresco

Triangular Arrangement – contains floral materials that form a triangle. The shape of the triangle may vary from high and narrow to low and wide. This piece can be created to be 3 dimensional or 2 dimensional. This style of arrangement is commonly used at the head table or on buffet tables.

Vertical Arrangement – is a tall, slender linear design. The floral material can radiate upward at any point of the arrangement. Vertical arrangements are can vary in height, however to be effectively used at your reception, the floral material should radiate above 24” tall. (This allows guests to communicate without an obstructed view.)  The vertical arrangement can be used on any table style.

Picture:  Grandeur

Horizontal Arrangement – is usually low and follows a long horizontal line. These arrangements are 3 dimensional. They will vary in length, are under 12” tall, and no wider than 6”. The horizontal arrangement is a perfect choice for long narrow banquet tables.

Types of Reception Tables

As there are a variety of reception tables available to bridal couples today, current trends are shaking things up by mixing things up. Couples are mixing square with round, or mix in a few square tables to break up a long banquet table seating arrangement. Mixing up the table design gives your wedding a designer feel. Consider mixing up your linens too!

60”/72” Round – this is the most commonly used table in wedding receptions. It allows guests a fair view of the bride and groom, by limiting the number of guests with their backs to the bridal couple. This reception table style also creates easy pathways throughout the room, without creating rows or columns.

40” Square - this is a newer table design that started appearing on the reception scene about 3 years ago. This look provides a clean, hip statement, and may be used when space is limited. Most square tables seat 8 guests, 2 on each side. Stagger their placement to avoid creating rows or columns.

Long Banquet Table – this style of table is used in long narrow environments and allow maximum seating in minimal spaces. Examples of places these tables may be used are along side pools, in barns, in winery cellars, etc. The banquet tables are groupings of 6’ or 8’ banquet tables and cast a feeling of a royal feast.

High-boy Table (Cocktail Table) - these tables are smaller and taller tables typically used in a cocktail environment. They allow guests a small space to rest hors d'oeuvres or their drinks. These tables can be used in a variety of reception settings and can be dressed up or down, depending on the formality of your event.

How to Choose the Right Centerpiece

There are several questions to ask yourself when making a centerpiece selection.

1. What are the dimensions of the table?
2. What is the purpose of the table? (Dinning, place cards, cake, sweet table, etc)
3. What items will be placed on the table? (Sugar, butter, cream, plates, placement cards, glasses etc)
4. How much space will these items take up?
5. How much space does that allow for a centerpiece or other décor (candles)?
6. What height will work best for this table? Remember, guest tables should either have arrangements under 12” tall or over 24” tall.

If you understand your arrangement and table options, while answering these 6 questions I have no doubt in my mind that you will select fabulous centerpieces to really set off your reception. 

BIO:The Flower Lady has created more than 12,000 floral arrangements in her years as a professional bridal/event consultant and silk floral designer. Visit www.BloomedToLast.com to learn more tips, see floral examples or to read more wedding planning articles.

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