Show Stopping Tabletops
Meghan Rabbitt
You’ve got the gown, the reception hall, and the flowers to choose – the last thing you think you have to worry about are the table linens, right? Although it may seem like minor details, the tablecloths, napkins, and chair covers you choose can impact the whole look of the reception, says Melissa Torre, a Los Angeles-based event coordinator. Here are four questions to think about that will help narrow your choices and choose the table linens that’ll work best at your wedding reception:
1. What does the venue provide?
If your reception site provides linens, you might be in luck. Just be sure to ask them what color the linens are – they’ll likely be a neutral hue, like ivory or beige – and check that the tablecloths hit the floor, which gives the table a finished look. If you decide to use the venue’s neutral-colored linens, you can add color with a charger or runner. And remember, your centerpieces will add an element of design to the table (you might want to choose a more elaborate centerpiece if the linens are subdued).
Does the venue supply chairs, too? Ask what kind. If it’s a ballroom chair, the most important element to consider is the color. Try to choose linens and centerpieces that’ll complement these chairs if you love them. If they clash with your color scheme and flowers, a slipcover is your answer. The venue’s manager can tell you what size cover will fit on their chairs. If it’s a wood, cane-back chair – known as a Chiavari style and typically what you’ll get from most rental companies – look into chair caps, which only cover the back of the chair. Like slipcovers, they come in all colors and fabrics and give a crisp, polished look. You can also tie fabric into elaborate bows to the back of the chairs.
2. What time of year are you getting married?
Satin or cotton tablecloths and napkins can be used year-round. Linen is popular in the summer, especially at outdoor weddings; and velvet is a great pick for winter weddings, particularly at formal receptions. Whatever you choose, you want to make sure your color and fabric choices fit with the season.
3. How would you characterize your wedding?
Is it going to be classic and elegant? Funky and unique? Choose the table linens for your wedding just like you would for your home – they should match the décor, as well as your personal taste. The wedding’s location is also a factor. “You wouldn’t go with a velvet tablecloth at an oceanfront resort,” says Torre. “Start with what you like, and then make variations according to the theme, look, and feel you want to achieve.” A recent trend is the return to classic whites and ivory linens. “In the last couple of years it was all about adding lots of color, but not anymore,” says Torre.. Keep it simple and add color with unique accent pieces, like napkin holders or even table numbers.
4. How can you be unique?
Another trend Torre is seeing popping up at A-lister weddings is hemstitched napkins, complete with a couple’s monogram embroidered in their wedding colors. After the wedding, the napkins are laundered and delivered to the bride and groom as keepsakes. For black-tie weddings, ask about white and black napkins, to correspond with what the guests are wearing. It’s a nice touch that won’t go unnoticed.
Don’t overlook the power of table linens to add an element of class to your wedding. These are small details that will help capture your wedding’s ambiance and impress your guests.