Your wedding welcome table is one of the first things your guests will see when they walk in. You can have a welcome table for the ceremony and reception, or you can combine them. A ceremony welcome table typically has your programs, bubbles or rose petals, fans or tissues. A reception welcome table will have your version of a guest book or alternative, card box, signage, and photos of the two of you. All of these items are completely optional but a fun way to play into your theme and add personalized touches.
Guest Book
The guests that come to celebrate your marriage are a huge part of what makes your big day so special. A guest book serves as a meaningful tribute, preserving the memories of those who shared in your celebration. With a multitude of options available, thoughtful consideration of your style and theme will guide you to the ideal guest book. Additionally, envision its lasting presence in your home, ensuring a timeless reflection of this momentous occasion for years to come. Check out our
Traditionally, if you have a registry, your guests won’t be toting gifts to the wedding. However, cards still make their grand entrance, whether they’re loaded with cash, gift cards, or simply a sweet congratulatory note. That’s where the card box comes in - a designated spot for the thoughtful cards. Consider repurposing an old mailbox or embracing the charm of a bird cage.
If you anticipate a generous influx of gifts from your guests, opt for a spacious table designated specifically for this purpose. Enhance the clarity of the set-up by incorporating a “cards & gifts” sign, ensuring your guests locate the best drop-off spot for their thoughtful gifts.
Memory Table
There are a number of emotions that come along with saying “I do” to your person. Experiencing a range of emotions is a natural part of the journey to becoming newlyweds. In the absence of loved ones who have passed away, the act of tying the knot can add an additional layer of emotion to the day. If there are certain individuals who are no longer with you but who you wish could attend the celebration, creating a memorial table with a collection of memorabilia or photos stands out as one of the most meaningful ways to honor and cherish their memory.
Couple Photos
Infusing your reception with photos of the two of you is an adorable and personal touch. Elevate the charm by incorporating them into your guest book or gift table, adding a delightful décor element to fill any empty spaces. Whether showcasing engagement photos or a collection spanning your entire journey together, it’s a sweet way to let your guests take a nostalgic peek into your shared history!
SWEETHEART VS. HEAD TABLE
When it comes to the couples placement during dinner at the wedding reception, they have two options: a head table or a sweetheart table. A head table is a larger table that includes the newlyweds, their wedding party, and/or immediate family members. The sweetheart table is a smaller table where the couple sit by themselves at their own table during the reception.
DESIGNING YOUR TABLESCAPE
When it comes to creating the best wedding tablescape to wow your guests, it is an art form. Whether it’s something you are creatively DIYing or working closely with your florist and venue team, there are several important elements to consider. There are, of course, gorgeous and timeliness trends you’ll see carried over season after season, but beautifully crafted tablescaping is also an opportunity to bring your style through on your wedding day. From flowers to votive candles, cutlery and glassware, charger plates, and stationery, we’re here to help your dream tablescape come to life!
OUR TOP TIPS TO CREATE YOUR WEDDING TABLESCAPE DESIGN
FOLLOW YOUR STYLE QUIZ RESULTS - this will help keep all your tablescape elements cohesive and convey the mood, theme, or experience you want your guests to have.
PLAY WITH LAYERS - this can create visual interest and depth. We suggest using things like charger plates and runners or overlays.
FRESHEN UP WITH FLORALS AND GREENERY - your florist will help you determine what floral centerpieces work best for your tables.
ADD MENU CARDS OR STATIONARY - incorporating stationary is a great way to design a more sophisticated wedding table. Add stationary such as table place cards, menus, and table numbers to create an elevated tablescape.
DIY YOUR DECOR - a great way to express your style is to get crafty! This is a great way to personalize your tables and incorporate décor that helps tell your love story.
ACCENT LIGHTING
Music isn’t the only way to set the mood for a fabulous party; light is an impactful tool to highlight things you want to accentuate and create a festive vibe! Accent lights will add color and fun to your dance floor. Uplights are placed on the ground around the room to reflect light off the walls.
WEDDING SIGNAGE
When planning your wedding décor, signage may be one of the last things that come to mind. However, wedding signs are one of the first things your guests see when arriving, and they play a key role in your wedding. Signs can be used for almost everything from welcoming guests, telling them where to set their gifts, and introducing your signature drinks!
SEATING ARRANGEMENT
You have two options: assigning guests to a specific seat at a particular table or placing them at a table and letting them pick their chair. Whatever you choose should depend on your mix of people and the party style you want to throw. Typically, seating guests at an assigned seat is the most formal. You have three ways of letting your guests know where to take their seats: escort cards, a seating chart, or place cards with a seating chart. Place cards are needed if you decide to assign everyone a specific seat. Unsure which option is best for you? We are here to help.
Escort Card Table
The table is usually set up at the dining area entrance, and on it are the escort cards (arranged in alphabetical order) with each guest's name and table number. Each guest will walk up to the table to find their name, so ample space around the display is necessary to avoid congestion. An escort card table opens the door to creativity and fun while expressing your unique personality and style.
Seating Chart
The seating chart is a large sign, or a group of small signs, with all of your guests' names clearly written out and arranged by table number. It will be placed at the reception entrance and allows for a quick transition through spaces as guests find their name and head to their seat.
The creative possibilities are endless regarding a seating chart; acrylic stands, wood, vintage mirrors, and chalkboards can all be used to create a beautiful display.
Place Cards with a Seating Chart
This is essentially a combination of the two above. Instead of having an escort card table, the card will be placed at the place setting you want the guest to sit at. The seating chart will direct them to the table that their place card is at.
As you can see, ensuring your wedding guests find their seats at the party requires careful planning and consideration. All three options effectively get the job done. In weighing your decision, it really comes down to personal taste and practical logistics.
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