Wedding Reception Ideas - Southern Living

Photo: Erica George Dines

Vibrant Tables

Vibrant, coordinated linens make a pretty presentation, as do simple floral centerpieces. Dress up simple glass vases by wrapping them in ribbon and adding a table number written with elegant flourish. Hang dinner napkins, personalized with your monogram, on the backs of the chairs for added color.

Photo: Katie Stoops

Burlap Tablecloth

Great for an outdoor wedding reception, burlap adds texture and an organic feel to wedding and table decor.

from the wedding of Keli and Nick

Photo: A Bryan Photo

Vintage China Settings

Instead of renting china to serve so many guests, try finding vintage china at flea markets and antiques stores. Not only will it help with your budget, but the mixed patterns will make each setting special.

from the wedding of Caroline Estopinal and Clark Brewer

Photo: Kate Headley

Sleek and Simple

Keep your reception tables sleek with votive candles and a small flower arrangement.

from the wedding of Alison Noelker and Chris Vinciguerra

Photo: Liz Banfield

Seersucker Tablecloth

Pink and white seersucker, bought by the yard at fabric stores, is a fun alternative to pricey, rented table linens.

from the wedding of Beth and Graham Patterson

Photo: Kate Headley

Reception Centerpiece

Use a tall floral centerpiece to fill a large reception space and also to draw attention to the head table.

from the wedding of Jessica Glenn and Eric Hallstrom

Photo: A Bryan Photo

Reception Brunch

White linens and white umbrellas give a more casual feel for reception brunches.

from the wedding of Caroline Bell and Jon Stowe

Photo: Alisa Lynn

Blue and Yellow Reception

Burlap runners add texture to the tables and complement the simple gingham napkins.

from the wedding of Hayley Todd and Charlie Sells

Photo: Melanie Mauer

Ornate Centerpiece

Ornate iron baskets filled with flowers serve as centerpieces at the reception.

from the wedding of Julie Knorr and Tony Youssefi

Photo: Jen Fariello

Colorful Tables

Don't stop with the flowers. Also use colorful glassware to carry out your color scheme.

from the wedding of Leigh Burwell and Scott Beal

Photo: Erica George Dines

Reception Buffet

If you're not having a seated reception, you can still get creative with your buffet tables. Instead of opting for the standard-issue white, rented tablecloth, make it more memorable by dressing the table in a colorful linen trimmed in festive grosgrain ribbon. Wrap silverware in colorful napkins and finish off with a ribbon and sticker or label with your new last initial. Green branches (like the fig branches here) make a big statement without breaking the bank.

Photo: Michael Howard

Dessert Bar

Give your guests an alternative to wedding cake. Set up a dessert bar with colorful candies or a variety of cakes and sweet treats.

from the wedding of Anna Kruegger and Joe Thomas

Reception Table Decorations