Learning your tables

| Fri, 08/03/2007 - 08:44

Table decorations at the reception add a whole new dimension to the occasion

THE DECORATION OF THE TABLE is a very important way to personalise your wedding. Most of the time at the reception is spent at the buffet and lunch: the choice of colours for the table linen, the flowers, the use of fruit and the elements which make up the chosen theme, all contribute to the dramatic and festive effect of the event.

When I meet the couple to discuss the decorative side of things, I always ask if they have any particular wishes, preferences for colours, type of flowers, if they have a subject in mind which can be developed into a decorative theme, including the gift packet of sweets, the table, the cake, the buffet, the table centrepiece, place cards. It is also most important to know the budget allowed for the creation of all these elements.

The table has a precise layout which must be respected: the colours of the table linen must go with those of the meal: Italian food, with its rich flavours and variety of colours, can also create a colourful table. Attention must also be paid to the time of year when the wedding is to be held: the seasons influence the choice of food, colours, flowers and decoration. Even if the ceremony takes place in December, if the venue is by the sea, summery details could be incorporated: a crown of starfish, with holly and broom. Thus a Christmas wedding will have details linked to the location.

I nearly always add candles both to the buffet and the table. Even in the light of day, particularly indoors, candles bathe the table in a more intimate and softer light.

MEETING THE COUPLE'S WISHES

The way in which the table is dressed must reflect the tastes and wishes of the couple, but they can be guided in what to add or what not to include in order to create the best effect: but I never impose decorations or flowers which are simply to my taste. The wedding table must be just what the bride and groom desire!

This good taste and knowledge are provided by an experienced wedding planner, who knows of different styles and ideas. She is fundamental to the fulfilment of the happy couple's wishes and the creation of the effect they have always dreamed of for their special day.

EVERY LITTLE DETAIL CAN SUGGEST PERSONAL AND UNIQUE TOUCHES...

Personally, I love roses of all types and shades: a simple white rose can create an elegant and refined atmosphere. For those who love colour, the attributes of flowers can be carried over to fruit... or even vegetables. A bowl of different salad leaves with various colours of roses can become an unexpected and original table centrepiece. Once, a collector of decanters asked me to create centrepieces recalling his precious collection. Each table was named after the carafe used, the containers for the gifts of sweets were miniature carafes in porcelain, useful for holding milk or tea, and all in the same colours and style chosen for the event. Every little detail can suggest personal and unique touches to include in the table decorations.

JOB SATISFACTION

All the weddings that I organise are different. I can't say which one I enjoyed most, although every one had something in common: the care and passion with which they were planned and prepared.

It is wonderful to see the faces of the couple as they enter the church or the place chosen for the reception, when they see their dreams realised just as they wished. Their expressions of contentment and appreciation is the best "thank you", and part of the great satisfaction I gain from this work.

It doesn't matter if the reception is seated or at a buffet: there will be no lack of flowers at your wedding.

Table decorations express joy and festivity. Silvia plans and creates them according to your wishes and your taste, with inspiration and imagination. This can even be done at a distance: a few details are enough to create the table of your dreams.

Details: Silvia Pacitto, Events organiser
s_p_eventi@yahoo.it - www.silviapacitto.com
Tel. +39 338 7599333 - Fax +39 02 36552323