How to Set a Wedding Reception Table
Wedding table set up involves an amount of planning prior to the actual laying out of the tables. Regardless of the theme of your wedding, a well-set wedding reception table is important as it enables your guests to feel comfortable and enjoy their meal.
- Lay out the wedding table linens. Cover the wedding tables with a tablecloth and then place a square overlay with a different color on top to create contrast. Place linens evenly on the table and smooth them out. Use table clips at the ends of the wedding linen to weigh it down so that it stays put on the table throughout the meal.
- Determine the number of wedding guests per table. Lay out your wedding reception table according to the number of people assigned to a table. Space each individual setting with enough room that allows guests to maneuver their food and utensils without elbowing each other. Position wedding table accessories like candles and table number cards towards the center of the table to avoid interferance as guests eat.
- Set out the glassware, plates and silverware on the wedding table. Center the dinner plate with the napkin on top at each individual setting. Place forks to the left of the plate, and knives and spoons to the right with the silverware being used first on the outer ends. Place glassware on the upper right side of the dinner plate and the bread and butter plate on the left upper side. Set the card assigning seat places directly above the dinner plate with the cake knife and spoon positioned between the seating cards and the dinner plate.