Deck the Halls: Outfit your Reception with Style

DECK THE HALLS: ELEGANT

Rich with beauty and allure, a focal floral arrangement adds sophistication to any setting. A lavish garland over the entry doors, a stately design at the place-card table, or an abundant cascade of floral from a chandelier are all key areas that will catch every guest's eye.

WeddingDay tip: Spend your money where it counts! Instead of inflating wedding costs with 22 over-the-top guest table centerpieces, give your attention to only a few (two or three) perfectly placed focal floral designs and simplify the rest.
 

DECK THE HALLS: FESTIVE

Fabric adds instant color to a neutral environment. Especially in a tent, nothing "fills in the overhead blanks" like a power-packed fabric treatment. Use multiple colors for layering or all the same for a bold, monochromatic statement.

WeddingDay tip: If your venue has tall ceilings, it is easiest, safest, and most often times mandatory for your contracted decor provider to hang such treatments. Save yourself the hassle!
 

DECK THE HALLS: FRAGRANT

At an outdoor cocktail hour or reception entrance, use a few scented candles to cheer your guests and add charm. For example, if your wedding revolves around orange hues, place orange-scented candles at the bars while serving drinks. Your guests will appreciate your thoughtfulness, thoroughness, and best of all, uniqueness.

WeddingDay tip: Keep your candles to a minimum to offer a delicate fragrance without overwhelming guests. Make sure the fragrance is far from hors d'oeuvres or the dining area-allow your food to speak for itself!
 

DECK THE HALLS: MODERN

Minimal arrangements are a dramatic, modern statement. When thinking "less is more," two basic elements must complement each other-the flower and the container. Be sure the shape and length of the stem balance the size and frame of the vessel. Whether the container is porcelain, clear glass, boldly-hued, or structural, an artfully arranged flower will make a lasting impression on your guests.

WeddingDay tip: Simple embellishment such as rocks, marbles, or sand will not only add a hint of flair, but will anchor flower stems under water.
 

DECK THE HALLS: PLAYFUL

Keep the youngsters smiling with age-appropriate activities at designated kids' tables. For an imaginative project that incorporates your theme, fill coordinating colorful buckets with doodling materials such as crayons, pens, and stamps. Encourage the kids to draw a picture of you and your groom on the front of a blank card. Later, write your appreciative sentiments inside, and send these to family members as thank you cards. And never forget to sweeten the deal with goodie bags of fun treats!

WeddingDay tip: No matter the numbers, keep things organized by assigning a relative to oversee activities. While someone responsible holds down the kid's fort, enjoy yourself, knowing you don't have to.
 

DECK THE HALLS: COZY

Creating a "room within a room" is definitely in high fashion. Comfortable, classy rental furniture comes in many shapes, colors, and styles, and choosing the right combination will allow guests to put their feet up while mingling and sipping champagne. Tie together the elements and add color with billowy pillows and floral displays on nearby nesting tables.

WeddingDay tip: The lounging area need not provide a seat for everyone; a few pieces of well-placed furniture are all you need to delight your guests.