Creative Ways To Make Wedding Place Settings

Planning a wedding involves a lot of work, from choosing the venue to deciding on the food. But one of the most important elements is the table setting, which can set the tone for the entire reception. Whether you're going for a rustic, elegant, or bohemian theme, there are endless ways to get creative and make your wedding place settings unique and memorable. From centrepieces to linens, and dishware to decorations, there's a lot to consider when it comes to creating the perfect tablescape for your big day.

Choosing a colour scheme

For example, if you're planning a spring wedding, you might want to opt for a pastel colour scheme with hints of gold, as seen in this place setting with a pastel blue plate and two other dishes on top, tied together with ocean-inspired napkins and place cards. You could also include small individual flowers or silk flowers at each place setting, like this sage green place setting.

If you're having a summer wedding, you could bring a tropical touch to your place settings with fringed chargers and crocheted napkins, or add a touch of life to each setting with baby's breath flowers, which work beautifully with a black and white colour scheme.

For an autumn wedding, copper chargers and flatware with DIY vellum menu bags that held bread, and flowers in peach, apricot, wine, and clay colours, will bring a seasonal feel to your tablescape.

And for a winter wedding, a combination of charger plates with metallic beading, a simple menu card, and a cluster of berries will add a festive touch.

You can also choose to incorporate your wedding's colour scheme into the place settings. For example, if you're opting for a vibrant palette, make sure your tablescape follows suit with patterned napkins, coloured glassware, white-handled silverware, and a modern menu card design. Or, if you're keeping things simple with a neutral colour scheme, add layers for interest, such as differently sized plates in the same hue, along with a subtle linen napkin and natural bone flatware.

Remember, just a hint of your colour scheme can go a long way in tying together the whole look of your wedding reception.

Selecting tableware

Choose a Colour Scheme

Select a colour scheme that complements your wedding theme and style. This can be as simple as a single bold colour, such as rose gold or gold, or a combination of colours that match your wedding palette. You can also bring in colours that are meaningful to you and your partner, such as your favourite colours or the colours of your wedding flowers.

Mix and Match

Feel free to mix and match different styles and materials to create a unique and personalised look. For example, you can pair stoneware with china, or matte stoneware with formal china, to create an elevated and chic look. You can also mix and match different colours, patterns, and textures to add depth and interest to your table settings.

Embrace Personalisation

Add personalised details to your tableware to make your guests feel special. This could include handwritten notes, bespoke tokens or favours, or even a unique detail to indicate where each guest is sitting. You can also incorporate your new monogram as a married couple on napkins, menus, or place cards.

Consider Your Menu

The food you plan to serve will play a significant role in selecting your tableware. Consult with your catering team to understand the logistics of your place settings. For example, if you are serving a plated meal, you will need chargers, while a family-style meal allows for a more layered look. Choose tableware that complements the type of food you will be serving.

Work Within Your Budget

Creating beautiful place settings can be budget-friendly. Simple ideas, such as painted feathers, beaded details, or rustic napkins tied with string, can be both cost-effective and elegant. Consider the number of elements you want to include in your table settings and work with your wedding planner to stay within your budget.

Adding decorations

Centrepieces

Centrepieces can be a great way to add a unique touch to your wedding tables. Consider using candles, flowers, or other creative items that reflect your theme and style. For example, if you're going for a rustic theme, opt for olive branches or garlands of greenery. If you want something more modern, try using geometric designs or acrylic place cards.

Linens and Napkins

Playing with colours, patterns, and textures can make a big impact. Mix and match table runners, napkins, and tablecloths to create a layered look. Don't be afraid to use bold hues or contrasting shades to make a statement. You can also add personal touches, such as embroidered monograms or customised wax seals on napkins.

Dishware and Flatware

Unique plates and dishware can elevate your place settings. Look for textured or patterned plates, or even handmade plates for a splash of colour. Gold or rose gold cutlery can add a touch of elegance or glamour. Don't be afraid to mix and match styles, such as pairing stoneware with china for a chic and approachable look.

Favours and Place Cards

Incorporate favours and place cards into your place settings for a thoughtful touch. You can include personalised poems, handmade cookies, or small gifts for your guests. Natural elements like feathers, flowers, or stones can also double as place cards and decorations.

Chargers and Menu Cards

Charger plates can be a great way to add a touch of glamour or elegance. Clear, metallic, or coloured chargers can be paired with simple or ornate menu cards. Consider using unique materials like wood, marble, or acrylic for your menus, or add a creative touch with wax seals or gold embossing.

Remember, when adding decorations to your wedding place settings, it's important to keep a balance between creativity and etiquette. Ensure that your guests have everything they need and that your setup is intuitive. Happy planning!

Using name cards

Wedding place cards are a great way to guide guests to their seats and add a personalised touch to your reception tables. Here are some tips for creating stylish and functional name cards for your wedding:

Materials and Design

When choosing the material for your place cards, consider your wedding theme and colour palette. While cardstock is a classic choice, you can also opt for unique materials such as acrylic, chalkboard, glass, or even natural elements like stone, leaves, or wood for a rustic wedding. Think about including designs with gold or glitter for a flashy event, pressed flowers for a garden celebration, or pages from old books for a literary-themed wedding.

Timing and Ordering

It's important to wait until your seating chart is finalised and you've received most of your RSVPs before creating your place cards. This will help you plan for table numbers and avoid spending extra on cards for guests who can't attend. Ideally, you should aim to have your place cards completed about a month before your wedding, leaving some room for any necessary edits or replacements.

Addressing and Etiquette

When addressing your guests on the place cards, consistency is key. You can choose to include titles like Mr., Mrs., Miss, or Ms., especially for more formal celebrations. For married couples with the same last name, you can use "Mr. and Mrs." followed by the surname. If multiple couples share the same last name, include the first name of the spouse or their full names. For unmarried couples with different last names, follow a similar format while using "Mr." and "Ms." You may also choose to omit titles altogether, especially for less formal events.

Meal Preferences

It's a good idea to check with your vendors to see if they prefer to include meal preferences or dietary restrictions on the place cards. You can use symbols or colours to indicate different meal options, making it easier for your vendors to deliver food and beverages to the correct guests.

Placement and Display

Place cards are typically placed at each reception seat or in holders above the place setting. Ensure that it's clear which card goes with which seat to avoid confusion. If you're using escort cards, which indicate the table number, place them in alphabetical order at the entrance of the reception area. Display your table numbers visibly so guests can easily find their tables.

DIY or Professional

While you can DIY your place cards, writing them by hand can be time-consuming and tricky. Consider doing a few trials to see how much time and effort it takes before committing to creating them all yourself. Alternatively, you can hire a calligrapher or choose a service that offers printed place cards with your chosen design and font.

Final Preparations

After receiving or creating your place cards, store them in a cool, dry place to avoid any damage. Have a plan for transporting them to the venue, and assign someone to place them on the tables before the reception. This will ensure a stress-free experience for you and your guests.

Creating a menu

Choose a Theme or Colour Scheme

Cohesion is key when it comes to wedding aesthetics. Opting for a theme or colour scheme will help you create a unified look across your menu and place settings. From elegant and rustic to tropical and playful, there are many themes to choose from. You can also bring your colour scheme into your menu design, napkins, or even the food itself.

Play with Textures and Layers

Add interest to your menu by incorporating different textures and layers. Consider using textured paper, such as watercolour or linen, for your menu cards. You can also play with layers by adding a simple accent, such as a black ribbon tied around the menu, or by choosing layered plates and napkins.

Include Personalised Details

Customise your menu with personalised details such as a wax seal, a monogram, or a handwritten note. You can also make your menu do double duty by using it as a place card. This not only adds a unique touch but also helps to streamline your table setting.

Embrace Creativity

Don't be afraid to get creative with your menu. Consider unusual shapes, such as hexagon-shaped menus, or include illustrations or pressed flowers. If you're feeling adventurous, you could even commission art pieces or handmade plates to showcase your menu.

Consult with Your Catering Team

Remember to keep your catering team in the loop when designing your menu. They can provide valuable input on the logistics of your place settings, especially if you're serving a plated meal or a family-style menu.

Keep it Simple

While it's fun to get creative, don't overwhelm yourself or your guests with overly complex designs. A simple, elegant menu with a single sprig of greenery or a hint of bold colour can be just as impactful as a more intricate design.

By following these tips and drawing inspiration from your personal style, you can create a wedding menu that truly reflects your taste and adds a unique touch to your special day.

Frequently asked questions