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Decorating ideas for wedding reception success
Wedding reception decorations can set the tone
Here are a few simple decorating ideas that can make a big difference in setting the tone for your wedding receptions.
First, think about what people will see as soon as they walk into the reception site. A couple of big flower arrangements right as guests enter, for example, allow you to have more modest table centerpieces since you've already made a big splash.
Similar to this, a large prop or display can serve as a single focus, whether you have a wedding theme or not. It could be anything from a surfboard to an antique car.
Remember that raising something closer to eye-level gives it more impact. By using a simple platform to raise a centerpiece, for example, then it will be make a bigger impression than the same centerpiece at table level.
You can always reduce the need for wedding reception decorations by choosing an interesting room or setting for your wedding reception. You can save money in the long run, even if the reception location itself costs a little more.
More decorating ideas for wedding reception sites, big and small
Don't forget about inexpensive items that can have a big visual impact. Though people first think of white table cloths, for example, consider using several complementary colors to create instant interest.
Finally, keep candles on your list when considering decorating ideas for wedding reception planning. They're inexpensive and always popular.
Wedding reception etiquette--when to follow it, when to forget it in your wedding planning
There are several good reasons to learn about wedding reception etiquette, even though you are more free than ever to do things as you like these days in your wedding planning. First, in an unfamiliar situation, etiquette gives you a place to start and helps you understand others' assumptions. Second, there are already so many decisions to make, you can go ahead and allow traditional wedding reception etiquette to guide you where you don't have a strong preference.
In our opinion, wedding reception etiquette isn't about "doing everything right," it's about making everyone as comfortable as possible, honoring those you want to honor, and making your reception a very special experience. Sometimes when doing your wedding planning, you might actually go against traditional etiquette to accomplish those things. For example, one couple on our editorial staff decided (*gasp*) to take formal pictures before the wedding ceremony so there would be no delay between the ceremony and the reception. And just as well, since the bride started crying immediately after walking out of sanctuary and would never look the same after that.
Where wedding reception etiquette can help you
Receiving line (where to have it, who stands in it, in what order, what you do and say)
Seating plan (when you should have one, how to make it work smoothly)
Head table (will you have one, who sits there in what order, how food is handled)
Toasts and speeches (how many, in what order, will there be a master of ceremonies)
Dancing (will you have traditional dances, which ones, and in what order)
Just remember that these days, wedding reception etiquette is only there to help you. You don't have to be pushed around by phrases like, "Wedding etiquette dictates..."
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