Creating A Wedding Top Table With Flowers

The top table is where the happy couple, their parents, the best man, and the maid of honour sit at the wedding reception. It is important to style the top table as it is the focal point of the room and faces the wedding guests. The shape and size of the table will influence any floral arrangements. For long tables, one floral arrangement is usually placed in front of the couple, with two smaller designs on either side. A round table, on the other hand, is better suited to a beautiful garland of blooms.

Roses are a classic choice for top table flowers, as they are incredibly versatile and available in many colours. They also complement other blooms such as hydrangeas and peonies. Orchids are another popular choice, as they come in a variety of colours, shapes, and sizes. Blush orchids combined with roses, silky magnolia, and green foliage create a romantic and feminine arrangement. Tulips are also a good option, as they pair wonderfully with almost every flower.

Choosing the right flowers

Consider the Season

The season of your wedding will play a significant role in the availability and selection of certain flowers. While some blooms can be sourced all year round, many are seasonal. Using flowers that are in season is a great way to capture the essence of the time of year and create a natural frame for your special day. In-season flowers are also more environmentally friendly, as they can often be sourced locally, and will be in their absolute prime, having been grown in their natural conditions. Speak to your florist about what's in season, and let them suggest alternatives if your favourite flowers are out of season.

Think about Colour

If you're unsure about choosing a colour palette, reflect on the colours that feature heavily in your home, the clothing you're drawn to, and the decor that catches your eye. Consider the lighting and decor of your venue, and if you're still unsure, browse Pinterest for inspiration. There are no rules when it comes to choosing colours—you can pick just one or go for a wild mix of shades. Your florist can guide you in selecting colours that complement each other and suit your style, whether it's classic and elegant or boho and alternative.

Keep Your Budget in Mind

Your budget will influence the types of blooms and the size and style of the arrangements you can choose. There are smart ways to reuse floral arrangements throughout your wedding to maximise their impact. For example, you can use the same flowers to line the aisle and then as centrepieces or room decor for your reception. A statement archway can also do double duty as a photo booth backdrop.

Find a Bespoke Floral Designer

Find a florist whose work resonates with you and seek their guidance. Share your ideas, whether it's shapes and styles of arrangements or specific colours you like, and they will help guide you to the right floral choices for your special day. A good florist will create a bespoke approach that suits your vision and venue.

Don't Forget Practical Considerations

Remember to think about practicalities such as allergies, the size and weight of the bouquet, and the fragrance of the flowers. You don't want a scent that's so strong it overpowers your guests or your carefully chosen perfume. It's also important to consider the size and shape of your table—a long table that seats eight is traditional for top tables, but some couples opt for a smaller table or a round one instead. The shape and size of your table will influence your floral arrangements. For instance, a garland of blooms suits a round table, while a long table usually features one larger arrangement in front of the couple with two smaller designs on either side.

Selecting a colour scheme

When selecting a colour scheme for your top table wedding flowers, there are a few things to consider:

• Seasonality: Choosing flowers that are in season is a great way to enhance the overall feel of your wedding. For example, if you're having a summer wedding, opt for bright and vibrant flowers such as sunflowers, roses, or peonies. For a winter wedding, consider deeper colours such as burgundy, navy, or dark purple.
• Venue and Table Shape: The shape and size of your table will influence your floral arrangements. For long tables, one large arrangement is typically placed in front of the couple, with two smaller designs on either side. A round table, on the other hand, may suit a beautiful garland of blooms.
• Personal Preference: Ultimately, your wedding should reflect your personal style and taste. If you have a favourite colour or flower, consider building your colour scheme around that. You can also incorporate meaningful elements, such as family heirlooms or cultural traditions.
• Complementary Colours: When selecting your colour scheme, consider the colour wheel. Colours that are opposite each other on the wheel are considered complementary and tend to create a vibrant and eye-catching display. For example, purple and yellow or blue and orange.
• Variety: Don't be afraid to mix and match different flowers and colours to create a unique and interesting arrangement. For example, orchids come in a variety of colours and shapes and can be combined with other exotic flowers such as birds of paradise or plenty of greenery for a more natural look.

Remember, your top table wedding flowers should be a reflection of your style and personality. Don't be afraid to get creative and think outside the box!

Floral arrangement styles

There are many different types of floral arrangements for weddings. Here are some ideas for floral arrangement styles for a top table at a wedding:

High Centrepieces

High centrepieces are perfect for luxury weddings. They add a breathtaking feel to the celebration. A row of high centrepieces strengthens the look.

Individual Arrangements

Individual arrangements placed around the table in an organised manner is a contemporary look and a good choice for modern couples. Bud vases always look better in mass, so a good quantity is recommended. They allow you to highlight the containers, so a thoughtful choice of product is necessary. It is not all about glass; you can choose from different materials, including ceramics, porcelain, terracotta, and clay.

Table Runners

Table runners are recommended for rectangular-shaped tables. They beautify tables that can be quite repetitive and lack creativity. They are usually composed of the base or the 'runner', which can be complemented with candelabras, candles, or other taller pieces.

Low Centrepieces

Low centrepieces can be arranged in different types of containers, such as vases, bowls, and urns, or with no container for a more modern look. They are generally recommended to be up to 40cm tall, but can be built higher if placed closer to a wall and viewed from one side.

Floral Arches

Floral arches are the ultimate statement. They beautifully frame the couple and provide an anchor point. There are endless modifications, including the natural, decorative, or vegetative style, symmetry, shape, size, and type of materials used.

Incorporating accessories

When it comes to incorporating accessories into your top table wedding flowers, there are numerous options to choose from. Here are some ideas to elevate your floral arrangements:

Flowers and Greenery

The type of flowers and greenery you choose will depend on your wedding theme and colour scheme. Select flowers that complement each other and your chosen colour palette. For instance, if you're decorating with lilies, you can either use lilies for your table décor or another flower that pairs well with lilies. You can also opt for silk flowers or artificial flowers if you prefer.

Bouquets

Beautifully crafted bouquets are a classic choice for wedding décor. Whether you choose roses, lilies, gerberas, or daisies, you can find or create stunning floral bouquets to adorn your top table.

Centrepieces

Centrepieces are an essential accessory for your top table decoration. You can choose from a variety of options, including floral arrangements, candles, or a combination of both. Consider the height of your centrepieces to ensure they don't obstruct your guests' views or conversations. You can also opt for low centrepieces or wreaths and garland centrepieces.

Floral Balls

Floral balls are a unique accessory that can be hung above your top table. Create them yourself using flowers, foam, ribbons, glue, and florist tape. Pair them with lighting accessories to create a magical effect.

Table Runners

Table runners are a traditional way to decorate your top table. These are typically strips of fabric and lace, draped with floral strips, running the length of the table. They add a romantic and elegant touch to your wedding décor.

Chairs

Don't forget to decorate the chairs! Use the same or complementary flowers, greenery, or ribbons to decorate the chairs and create a cohesive look. Ensure that all your floral choices are in sync to avoid a mismatched appearance.

Matching the table shape

When it comes to creating top table wedding flowers, matching the shape of the table is crucial. Here are some guidelines to help you design beautiful floral arrangements that complement the shape of your top table:

For a Rectangular Table:

Rectangular tables are a common choice for wedding top tables. To decorate this type of table effectively, consider creating long and low floral arrangements that run down the centre. This helps to emphasise the length of the table and creates a visually appealing display. You can use a combination of flowers and greenery to add texture and interest. If you want to make a bolder statement, opt for taller centrepieces, but be mindful of guests' eye lines; you don't want the flowers to obstruct their view.

For a Round Table:

Round tables offer a more intimate setting and provide an opportunity for creative floral arrangements. Consider a circular floral arrangement in the centre, echoing the shape of the table. This can be a single, large arrangement or a collection of smaller vases or jars with flowers. You can also place flowers at different heights to add depth and dimension to the display. Candles are a great addition to round tables, creating a romantic ambiance.

For a Square Table:

Square tables provide a balanced and symmetrical look. To complement this shape, aim for floral arrangements with clean, straight lines. Square vases or containers can be used to reinforce the angular theme. Place the flowers in the centre of the table, ensuring they are proportional to the size of the table. You can also create smaller, matching arrangements for each corner of the table to add interest and symmetry.

For a U-Shaped Table:

U-shaped tables are a unique choice and offer multiple options for floral arrangements. You can place flowers in the centre of the U, creating a focal point that draws attention. Additionally, consider smaller arrangements along the curve of the U to add interest and soften the lines of the table. Hanging flowers or floral installations above the table can also be a stunning feature, especially if the table is positioned against a wall.

For an Oval Table:

Oval tables have a similar effect to rectangular tables but with softer lines. To match the elegant shape of an oval table, opt for elongated floral arrangements. You can use a combination of flowers and trailing greenery to create a romantic and whimsical look. If the table is narrow, ensure the flowers don't take up too much space to allow for comfortable dining.

Remember, these are just guidelines, and you can always add your own creative twist to match your wedding theme and personal style. The key is to ensure the floral arrangements complement the shape and size of the table, creating a harmonious and visually appealing top table for your special day.

Frequently asked questions