Decorating Ideas

The focal-point cake table is strategically placed in an elevated area to set the stage for a dramatic debut.

The cake may be the star, but the table it sits atop also should be dressed to the nines. Here, a round glass top sits on an urn, which is barely visible through the sheer fabric. Pearls and raw-silk bias tape add interest to the hemline of the wispy table skirt.

These tiered cakes are reminiscent of the pillbox-style hat made famous in the '60s by style icon Jackie Kennedy Onassis. White roses fill the spaces between the cakes. The stems are inserted into florist's foam, which sits in a water-filled container -- a job best left to a professional. A piped monogram is an understated twist on the traditional cake topper.

 

With a vellum overlay and satin bow, this table card is a classy way to help guests find their seats. Print numbers onto vellum. Cut the vellum slightly smaller than a purchased tent-fold card. Hot-glue the top edge of the vellum to the card, then hot-glue a satin bow to the top.

 

A monogrammed menu is tucked into a satin napkin that's almost too pretty to use. Print a simple computer-generated menu onto white card stock. Place one in each napkin, folded to form a pocket cuff -- no napkin rings needed.

 

Towering bouquets and candles soften this grand reception area. Floral-adorned candelabras with creamy white tapers cast a gentle glow on the guest tables. Big-bloom flowers, including lilies and hydrangeas, minimize the number of flowers needed.

The head table is separated into three smaller tables. The center table -- reserved for the bride and groom -- is a fabric-covered board secured to two concrete urns. A sheer tablecloth allows the urns' curves to show through.