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We’ve all seen the standard round reception table. And, the occasional square table. But if you are looking for a way to really transform a space easily – go for long banquet-style tables.  It can make an otherwise large reception feel more intimate, and help to re-shape the space.

The World’s Fair Pavilion is a great space in St. Louis. And, more often than not, receptions use the round tables time after time. With a little switch of the table shape, the Pavilion was transformed into a different space, with a more dramatic effect.




Photos courtesy of Megan Thiele Studios

Sometimes the smallest of change can make the biggest impact.

Not a fan of card boxes? Me either.

Get creative by using old vintage suitcases, or bird cages. It’s best to find a container that fits with your look and feel.


Steep Street via Green Wedding Shoes


Angelica Glass via The Loveliest Day

Even if you aren’t going for that “candy shoppe” feel for your wedding, you can incorporate the fun candy throughout your day in subtle ways.

Fill trays with gumballs to hold up escort cards.

Or, place them in the bottom of vases and hurricanes as a base for pillar candles.

Images courtesy of Jennifer Daigle Photography via Style Me Pretty

Who doesn’t love a photobooth? I mean, really? So why not make it more fun with these hilarious props form Maro Designs? Do yourself (and me) a favor and buy a few of these.





And, my personal favorite, the Beard on a Stick.


Images courtesy of Maro Designs

If you have my family, chances are you don’t need any games or ice breakers to get the party going.  I come from a long line of talkers and have-a-good-timers.

BUT, that doesn’t mean you still cannot entertain your guests with a little fun during the cocktail hour or reception.

This particular bride, Jenny, created a wedding “I Spy” game, encouraging guests to take pictures (there were disposable cameras on the tables).  Not only would this get your guests going, but it’ll provide you and your significant other with some interesting and entertaining photos from the evening.


Image courtesy of Jennifer Dery Photography via Polka Dot Bride

I’m type A (in case you’re wondering), so the details are pretty important to me. And, while details are not important to everyone (which is perfectly okay), it really is the details in a wedding that help bring everything together.

See this gorgeous bouquet?

It ties in nicely with these pillows featured on the bride and groom’s chairs at the reception (the wheat).

And, work great with the place card holders (pine cone).


All images courtesy of Clary Pfeiffer Photography

While most guests won’t outright notice each minor detail, they will notice personality and cohesiveness. And, I’m definitely not suggesting spending a fortune on your wedding, because, at the end of the day, you don’t truly need to.Just  take the time to plan out the details – make sure they make sense for the wedding, and for you and your significant other, as a couple.

Shauna Younge of Shauna Younge Dessert Tables sent me another great dessert table she designed. This time, she avoided the tradition reds and pinks associated with Valentine’s Day, and instead used a palette of pinks and blues to create a fun-loving and chic table set-up. It may be early in the morning, but this table sure does make me hungry!

All photos are courtesy of Tricia Little of Sweet Shibui

Now, do not tell me that you have no idea how to present your napkins on your reception tables.  Well, because, there are a million ways to tie a napkin, and you can always count on Martha Stewart or Google to give you an answers.

Two of my favorites? The simple tri-fold napking on the plate, and the bow.  Both are very chic and simple options, and easily customizable with colors and napkin styles.

Images courtesy of Martha Stewart Weddings via Southern Weddings Magazine