Long tables with family-style service have become very popular for wedding receptions. The idea behind this style of dinner is to create a relaxed and convivial atmosphere that encourages conversation and good times. However, it is not enough to change long tables to round tables; You also need to set the table to encourage this friendly flow of conversation. Here are some centerpiece suggestions for family-style wedding receptions.
The tall, formal flower arrangements often seen on traditional round reception tables just don’t work for long, family-style tables. Not only are they too stuffy for the relaxed atmosphere of a family dinner, but their high height blocks the view of those across the table, hindering the flow of conversation. The number one rule of thumb when designing centerpieces for long tables is to keep them low. Your guests should be able to converse without craning their necks to see around the centerpieces.
If you opt for tall items like candlesticks, choose those with narrow bases and open designs that won’t create a wall between the two sides of the table, and place them in the gaps between cutlery to keep your line of sight clear. You can then fill in the spaces between the chandeliers with low flower arrangements. Rustic iron candle holders would be wonderful for a vineyard wedding with rectangular tables. For an airier look, create groups of clear glass candle holders with very tall stems at various heights. Float ivory candles in them to add the soft romantic glow of candlelight to your family-style reception, and you’ll cast a flattering light on your guests with your beautiful wedding attire and pearl earrings.
Flowers are very popular for centerpieces. A great effect for long family-style tables is to use a series of small, low centerpieces along the length of the table, rather than a few separate larger arrangements. It also makes it easier to pass dishes around the table, if necessary. A mix of floral colors and textures suits the relaxed character of the family-style service. Choose flowers based on the season, the location of your wedding, and of course, your personal taste. If you’re a bride who loves the timeless look of pearl earrings and lace, clusters of white garden roses, pink peonies, and yellow sweet peas drooping over the sides of clove vases and bowls antique whites would be lovely. Loose arrangements will give a “just out of the garden” feel to the centerpieces.
Unusual natural elements like succulents, river rocks, and desert flowers (but no prickly cacti, please!) would be a fresh, contemporary approach to decorating long reception tables. Set the table with white tablecloths and place a runner in the center to help unify the different decorative elements. The runner could be a natural color like wheat, or contrast with the understated decors by choosing a runner in a bright shade like hot pink or orange. This would make a fantastic tablescape for a country reception or a clean-lined venue like a city loft.
When decorating your family-style reception tables, don’t overlook the design possibilities of fruits and vegetables. For a classic fall celebration, place hollowed-out pumpkins, mini pumpkins, and eggplants in the center of rectangular tables. Fill them with seasonal flowers in shades of red, purple, orange, and cream. A fun idea for a summer reception would be to place low bowls filled with lemons and limes along the tables. Between bowls of fruit, layer very low arrangements of hot pink gerbera daisies, lime green mums, and a scattering of small white blossoms (to break up the rich color palette a bit). The final effect of your centerpieces will be attractive, festive and absolutely perfect for a fun family style wedding reception.
