Reception Hall Decorating Ideas For Wedding

Create an Escort Card Display

Rather than having an escort card table, create a bulletin board of seats assignments and display it around the entrance of the reception space. Bonus: You won't have guests squinting at tiny cards that are tented, attempting to decipher their table amount.

Hang Your Flowers

Think blossoms are only to your tables? Think again. Suspending arrangements a couple of feet over your guests' dinner dishes is a fun way to create a space that is more intimate. (This tip is particularly handy if you are not so fond of your venue's carpeting--only keep folks looking up!)

Pick Up Patterned Pillows

For those who have a lounge area on your reception area (or made one with a few leasing furniture), then get yourself to a housewares department for a number of pillows. Find them available (IKEA-style) and protect them with your favorite patterned cloth for a few low maintenance pops of festive color and pattern.

Add Terrariums

Not a flower man? It's not necessary to splurge on a bunch of centerpieces. A patch of a terrarium moss, candles, a few blooms and a succulent or 2 and you've got a tablescape.

Hang (a Ton of) Paper Lanterns

We know--paper lanterns are nothing new. But multiply the amount of lanterns you see hanging by 100 in a reception area and it's a totally different story.

Hang Tapestries

If it is too tough to bring in big setups to decorate your area but you desire to add a little flavor to the walls (or pay up some less than perfect wallpaper), then look to tapestries. They're easy to transport and require setup.

Mood Lighting En Masse

When paired with some dramatic uplighting and luxe fabrics, the addition of tall taper candles turns out your area to a magnificent scene of dancing lights.

Drape the Ceilings

It's amazing what a tiny fabric can do. Keep it elegant and formal with white fabric, or if you're following a fun vibe, opt for a bright color like yellow. Bonus: Take this approach and you may go light and get the same reception seem that is decked-out.

Make a Family Photo Wall

For an easy conversation starter, make a wall of family wedding photos. Devote a row you to yours, into your spouse's family or just mix them all up. Alternative thought: Showcase your (brand new!) family tree.

Photo Backdrops

Create a stunning focal point that doubles as a photo background. Layers of shapes and different colors provide guests different elements. Consider substances that are easily customizable like tissue paper tassels, balloons, garlands of greenery or newspaper blossoms.

Rent Colored Glassware

Instead of pouring your whole reception décor budget to the centerpieces, consider using part of that budget to rent extras such as colored glassware--it will create your tables pop at an instant.

Use a Table Runner That Pops

Search for modern table décor inspiration, like this patterned table runner. Instead of having several large floral centerpieces, space them out in smaller bud vases to span the length of the runner (and then flaunt the pattern). This vibrant detail will make your leasing china pop.

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Use Table Lamps

Create height on your reception tables using table lamps. Tip: You can skip flowers in case you need, but surrounding the lamps with greenery or blossoms is a simple method to hide strings.

Create Chalkboard Signage

Chalkboards are a great way to decorate an entrance or jazz up the cocktail bar. Personalize it by spray-painting it to suit the rest of your décor and thrifting a classic frame. Drape with greenery or a flower garland and chalk off!

Reshape Your Table Numbers

Desire something unique to your table labels? Think about number presentation. Display names or your desk numbers on vessels like pennant flags, lanterns topiaries or wine bottles.

Add a Sprig of Herbs

Just because you are having a formal wedding doesn't mean that you can not have a little fun with your décor. Add herbs like rosemary or lavender .

Opt for Wood

If you're picking between plastic chairs and tables versus wood, go together with the natural option. Wood has a means of looking polished, although it is still possible to opt for chairs for a lesser price point.

Order Calligraphed Menus

Rather than printing out your escort cards and menus, choose the design one step farther with calligraphy. There are scripts for every type of affair, like copperplate for something or black tie more free-hand for chic. Invest in talent -- post the job out a few pupils for the occupation if your budget doesn't allow for 200 calligraphed place cards.