When it comes to creating the perfect wedding tablescape to wow your guests, it really is an artform. And whether it's something you're creatively DIYing or working closely with your florist or stylist, there are several important elements to consider which must all be tied together to bring your vision to life. There are of course gorgeous and timeless trends you'll see carried over season after season, certainly here on One Fab Day and also on your Pinterest feeds, but beautifully crafted tablescaping is also an opportunity to bring your own personal style through on your wedding day. From flowers and fruit, to candlelight, cutlery and collectables, layered fabrics, champion charger plates and bespoke stationery we're here to walk you through the process of creating your dream wedding tablescape. Not only that but we have some incredible photos for you to swoon over below, from our real weddings and styled shoots, so we can assure you that you won't be sorry you stumbled upon this wedding feature. Let the inspiration begin...
What is a Tablescape?
Let's start at the very beginning, shall we? A wedding tablescape is basically a decorated dining table that is carefully curated to create the wow factor, and can be for a small or large sitting, one table or many. The tablescape brings together several different décor elements, such as glassware, tableware, textiles, textures, stationery, lighting, flowers, favours and accessories, which all work together to provide a statement effect. Each element is layered and placed meticulously to create a really special overall design that ties in with the style and vibe of the wedding day itself.
How to Tablescape
To make creating your wedding tablescape an aesthetic piece of cake, we explain each gorgeous element below with clever top tips, but here are some key styling points to keep in mind when you're just getting started.
- Pick a theme or style
- Work in layers from the bottom up
- Use items of different heights
- Mix and match textures
- Include candlelight
- Don't foget the personal details
Style & Colour Palette
The colour palette is a very important starting point when it comes to wedding décor. Whether you wish to go neutral and minimalist, whimsical and fun, or modern with vibrant pops of colour, once you make this decision, all the other elements can fall into place. We recommend three shades when choosing your palette. For example, if your bridesmaids are wearing pink or lilac, choose one similar shade, then choose a neutral shade and one more contrasting shade like a sage or burgundy.
Top Tip: Don't forget to choose your metal when deciding on your colour palette. Choosing the right shade of gold, silver or copper will allow all your shades to gel together beautifully.
Textures & Fabrics
Tablescaping is about building layers, and tablecloths, table runners, placemats, napkins and napkin ties are an often neglected but important layer to consider as they offer the chance to bring in a number of different colours textures. These can be made from fabrics including chiffon, linen, silk, velvet and cotton, and can be such a cost-effective addition to make a big impact overall. Believe it or not, napkins can be quite the hero item. Use patterned or coloured fabrics to add interest to the table and get creative with your folding technique!
Top Tip: Look at the table itself and ask does it need to be fully covered. If it's made from a beautiful material such as marble, reclaimed wood or glass you could skip the tablecloth and incorporate the table top into your tablescape.
Florals & Foliage
Glorious blooms, whether dried or fresh, tend to be the jewel in the crown of most wedding décor and are probably the most impactful element of tablescaping. Spring, summer, winter or fall, the floral centrepiece can reflect every season and style, but it is important to keep table shape and size in mind. For a round table, florals in a footed bowl work magically when paired with a tall floral stand on every second table. Surround either with a mixture of tea lights and tapered candles in holders in a complementary shade. As for trestle tables, floral or foliage garlands are by far the most suited, and extra sprigs of foliage can help to fill in gaps. Bear in mind, that trestle tables are more narrow so go thin or tall with your choice. Add some tapered candles of different heights throughout the centre, and voilà !
Top Tip: Repurposing the florals and greenery from your ceremony is a great styling tip and a super sustainable choice and we have a whole post on how to right here!
Flatware
Symmetry is key when it comes to tableware and is what makes it so appealing to the eye. This step is the real game changer and one that can totally elevate the whole tablescape. Charger plates, the large plate which sits under the dinner plate, offers the chance to really make the setting pop whether you choose something ornate, full metallic, made from glass or even in a texture like rattan.
Top Tip: Nothing says glamour like gold details, and charger plates are an easy way to add a touch of metallic to your tabletop. The effect will be luxurious even if the dishes, glassware and flatware are minimal.
Glassware & Cutlery
Antique goblets and gold rim glasses and the ever-so-desirable gold cutlery are the elaborate touches to really enhance your settings. If you are choosing to host an intimate wedding with a handful of tables, then this styling could be the ultimate cherry on top to elevate your wedding feast.
Top Tip: Why not contact a catering company and hire out the glassware and cutlery as a sustainable and eco-friendly option. Check out our decor and hire suppliers here!
Candles & Lighting
Candlelight is the key to setting a romantic atmosphere, so make sure your wedding table settings have plenty of candles in various vessels of different shapes and heights, such as tapered candle holders, candelabras, and votives. Just be sure that your guests can still see and talk to each other - the last thing you want is to stem the flow of conversation because people are hidden behind a huge centrepiece. Oh, and check for any potential fire hazards in your set up!
Top Tip: Glass bottles like whiskey, wine and gin bottles in coloured glass and unique shapes can make great tapered candle holders. Just be sure to start collecting them early so you have enough for the amount of tables you have.
Seating
Chairs can really up the wow factor of a dining space, so, if budget allows, consider ghost chairs, classic bistro chairs, Chiavari chairs or luxe gold accent chairs or even rent chair covers.
Top Tip: Create your own bespoke chair covers with fabric and ribbon. Simply drape it through the back of the chairs and tie it off. If you have pew ends for your ceremony, repurpose them by attaching them to the back of the top table chairs!
Favours
To show some more love to your guests or to a charity that's close to your heart, a wedding favour is a beautiful token to say thank you! And let us tell you, there are plenty of versions to choose from. Create your own sustainable favours, choose local produce to highlight your location, or get creative if you're a dab hand at DIY or baking, after all, that is what your wedding is all about - what matters to you!
Top Tip: Ensure little waste and ultimate usage by choosing a favour you know your guests would love to use after the wedding. Edible and drinkable favours are perfect in this instance!
Stationery
Table names, place cards, menus, and even extra special touches such as a personalised letter to the table all add character and uniqueness to your wedding aesthetic. If it's in keeping with your theme, look for ways to add extra details such as ribbon or wax seals to your menus and place cards.
Top Tip: As a nod to your relationship, why not create quirky and personal table names? We have a post with over 40 brilliant wedding table name ideas here.
If you loved these wedding tablescape decoration ideas, check out our other wedding décor ideas and trend posts, including these 19 Tablescapes to Make You Swoon. We also have inspiration for Beautiful Outdoor Wedding Ceremony Styling Ideas here!
