Personal expression takes many forms while designing your event, but no decorative element can make as strong of an impression as the table settings and centerpieces at your reception. Many event design experts suggest that if you choose to focus on one particular decorative element at your event, it should be the tables. No matter which meal will be served during your reception, your tables and table setting can create the perfect ambiance and look.

The beginning of a table design depends on four important elements. First, the venue your event will take place in. Second, the ambiance you are trying to achieve. Third, the time of day your reception will take place and the formality of the event. And fourth, focal points and personal design elements.

Venue

Your reception venue is key in helping you determine what type of table setting, seating, and centerpiece will be appropriate. The key is to always create a balance between the room and the tables so that neither overpowers the other. The venue chosen will be a reflection of the ambiance to be created, as well as the activities to be accommodated therein. For instance, a grand reception venue will reflect an atmosphere of abundance and indulgence while encouraging a high level of activity... dancing, mingling, etc. Table settings and centerpieces should be tall, lush, and luxurious. The shape and size of the tables should continue to evoke this feeling.

Ambiance

Although your guest count can determine much of how your wedding will be planned and designed, many other elements should be considered as well. One of the most important is to decide the ambiance you are trying to achieve at your event. For instance, if you want your event space to be conducive to mingling and meeting new people, set up round tables for eight or ten guests. Even if your guest list includes friends and family from a tight circle of acquaintances, chances are that each table will have guests who will not know each other. Round tables are perfect for socializing since there is no "perceived" head-of-table, or someone who should initiate and/or lead conversations (much like the host or hostess does at dinner parties). Everyone feels equal and comfortable. For small events, buffets, or cocktail parties, cabaret seating -- tables that seat three or four -- can be very comfortable.

For larger and more formal events, long banquet tables can be an elegant artistic statement. Long tables are becoming more and more fashionable at wedding receptions and other special events. Although long tables may limit your guests to socializing with at most four people during dinner, their classic beauty makes up for it. Check with your event venue to see if they can accommodate long banquet tables.

Time and Formality of Event

Once you have decided on the size and shape of your tables, you can begin considering the necessities of any table setting -- place-settings, silverware, stemware, and any other elements that your guests will need while eating. Much of this will depend on what time of day your event will take place and how formal you would like it to be. From wedding breakfasts to late-night suppers, your table setting should be appropriate to the occasion. For example, cocktail parties can be both formal and informal, but one thing is sure, you don't have to dedicate any money in your event/wedding budget to such things as table numbers, seat assignments, and menus. Informal dinner buffets and brunches also do not need much since guests can find a place to sit at any table and with anyone they choose.

Formal events, on the other hand, require a much more organized approach. Seat markers, table numbers, menus, and even thank-you gifts (favors) for guests become a "necessity". The formality of your event can determine a lot regarding your table design, so give this area some serious thought.

Focal Points and Personal Design Elements

Any event will require focal points and your personal stamp of creativity. It reminds guests that they are not just at any wedding, but YOUR wedding. Centerpieces are a great example of items that function as both focal point and personal design element. Flowers are of course quite popular and incorporating flowers that you love can make for a great statement. Other centerpiece ideas can include candles (unscented so as to not interfere with the aroma of the food), family photographs, art sculptures (if your event is at a gallery), balloons, individual wedding cakes or cookies made for each table, stacks of favors, and even boxes wrapped up to look like wedding gifts.

Color and fabric are very strong design elements. Table linens, napkins, and chair covers can literally transform a room. White is the most popular color for weddings, which is no surprise since it has a formal, yet clean and crisp look. But other colors such as navy, silver, gold, red, and even black can make a beautiful bold statement. Check with a local rental establishment to find out the options available to you and most importantly, choose the colors that will blend well with your venue.

Designing a beautiful and fashionable table can be fun and extremely rewarding. So, go for it!

This article was contributed by Arina Lanis, Editor-In-Chief, founder of Wedding-Club.com. If you have questions or comments about this article, please feel free to e-mail her at arina@wedding-club.com