One of the best things about being an editor at a bridal magazine is having access to hundreds of photos of dazzling reception tables on a regular basis. Whether it’s a stunning design pulled together by a wedding planner or a fabulous DIY table from a real bride, the creativity and beauty is magical. But even beyond the wedding, you’ll want a table setting that reflects your style and personality.
Not too long ago, I attended a “Registry Re-Patterned” event, sponsored by NewlyWish Registry, featuring gorgeous table décor from some of the wedding industry’s top tastemakers. Using products from Waterford, Wedgwood and Royal Doulton, each pro presented their own unique vision of the perfect table.
Here, event planner and entertaining expert Marcy Blum’s “Rhapsody in Blues” shows how one color can create a dramatic statement. The blue and white scheme is always elegant, and the yellow striped table cover gives it a playful pop.
Photos by Karen Mordechai Photography/Styled by Eric Hildebrand/Florals by Melarosa
Mark Ingram, the owner and founder of Mark Ingram Bridal Atelier in NYC, designed his table as “Classic with a Modern Twist.” The traditional creamy hues of each piece are updated with a variety of designs that all work beautifully together. Against the contrast of the dark surface and with flowers and scattered nuts in the center of the table, this design is anything but dated!
Photos by Karen Mordechai Photography/Styled by Eric Hildebrand/Florals by Melarosa
This chic vintage look is pretty, feminine, and accessorized with jeweled napkin rings and butterfly place cards. The crystal glassware gives it a sophisticated spin.
Photos by Karen Mordechai Photography/Styled by Eric Hildebrand/Florals by Melarosa
Ceci Johnson, founder of the eponymous Ceci New York invitation and design house, opted for a “Modern Graphic” approach with tableware that showcased bold hues and graphic designs blended with flowers, foliage and bird patterns. The effect: colorful and (pardon the pun) inviting.
Photos by Karen Mordechai Photography/Styled by Eric Hildebrand/Florals by Melarosa
For the modern couple who “enjoys sophisticated entertaining with casual ease and warmth,” Mayra Castillo and Xochitl Gonzalez, co-founders of Always a Bridesmaid, an NYC wedding and event design firm, pulled together this lush look. The mix of the white and platinum with the teal and blue floral-printed dinnerware works beautifully. And I love the contrast of the natural wood table surface.
Photos by Karen Mordechai Photography/Styled by Eric Hildebrand/Florals by Melarosa
Lord Wedgwood himself presented a luxurious table with this exquisite dinnerware that would dazzle any dinner guest. Can’t you just picture these in a grand British manor home with its elegant dining room?
Photos by Karen Mordechai Photography/Styled by Eric Hildebrand/Florals by Melarosa
One of my favorite tables was designed by entertaining expert Jorge Pérez, the National Spokesperson for Waterford Crystal, Wedgwood China and Royal Doulton. His theme is “re-purposing,” and he shows how you can use your registry items in multiple ways. A cake stand isn’t just a cake stand: it can also be used for chips ‘n dip.
Or, with multiple cake stands and a bowl, you can create this three-tier fruit and cookie stand.
How about candlesticks, wine glasses, and even salt and pepper shakers as mini vases?
Or your martini glasses used to hold lemon and lime slices or pretty blooms. Genius!
Bonus: You can enter a sweepstakes with a grand prize of $4,500 toward anything in the Waterford Wedgwood Royal Doulton shop on NewlyWish. Anyone can enter and the sweepstakes lasts until April 24, 2012. Have fun creating your own gorgeous tables!
—Diane Forden
- from-dianes-desk's blog
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