Choosing the perfect place setting for your wedding can seem daunting, but with a little planning and attention to detail, you can create a stunning tablescape that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you select the ideal place settings for your special day.
Setting Your Budget
Before proceeding with the selection process, it’s crucial to establish a budget. Place settings typically range between $5 and $15 per set. Knowing this price range will help you narrow down your options and ensure that you stay within your financial limits.
Deciding on Your Style
The first step in selecting the perfect plates, flatware and glasses for your wedding reception is deciding on your style. Your dinnerware should be functional and reflect your unique personality and the event’s theme. Consider the following:
- Formal or Casual: A formal dinner may require elegant, fine china, while a casual reception might be better suited for rustic, simple plates and flatware.
- Color Scheme: Ensure your plates complement your wedding colors and decor.
- Theme: Whether you’re going for a vintage, modern, or whimsical look, your plates should align with the theme.
Considering Menu Presentation
Your menu should dictate the style and size of the plates. For instance, a duo entrée may require larger 13-inch dinner plates, while smaller servings might only necessitate 10-inch plates. Collaborate with your chef or catering team to determine the plate sizes for their preferred presentation style. if guests are being served dinner at the table, it’s common to only have the Charger at each place setting, with the salad plate brought out later.
Determining the Number of Plates
The number of plates you need will vary depending on your menu. For a three-course meal, you’ll generally need:
- A plate for the starter
- One for the main entrée
- A dessert plate
- A bread and butter plate
For family-style meals or buffets, you may only need one primary plate for dinner and a separate dessert plate. Finalizing the number and types of plates is important before moving on to shapes, patterns, and designs.
Selecting Your Drinkware
As crucial as your plates, drinkware contributes significantly to the dining experience. Water and tea goblets are essential for any setting, ensuring your guests stay hydrated and have a delightful experience. If you are serving wine or champagne, please feel free to include appropriate glassware, such as wine glasses or champagne flutes. These specialized glasses not only enhance the enjoyment of the beverages but also add a touch of elegance to your table setting. Matching your drinkware with your place settings can create a cohesive and polished look, impressing your guests and contributing to the success of your celebration.
Creating Balance and Cohesive Desing
Your tablescape should be visually appealing and manageable. You can strike a balance by choosing either the plates or the linens to be your statement piece, but not both. For instance, if you have intricate, patterned plates, opt for simpler linens, and vice versa. To create a cohesive and jaw-dropping tablescape, your plate selection should seamlessly blend with other decor elements such as linens, flowers, lighting, and additional shapes within your design. Charger plates can also add an extra touch of elegance to your table.
Personalization
One of the best ways to infuse personality into your tablescape is through customizations that reflect your unique love story. Consider incorporating personalized elements like monogrammed napkins, custom place cards, or even plates that tell a story related to your relationship.
Renting vs. Buying
Renting place settings is often recommended, as it allows couples to personalize their table design without the hassle of buying plates. Renting is typically more cost-effective and provides a broader variety of options. We at For Your Occasion Event Rentals offer many beautiful options at a fraction of the cost of purchasing.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect place setting for your wedding requires thoughtful planning and attention to detail. By considering your budget, style, menu presentation, and overall decor, you can create a stunning tablescape that will make your wedding day truly unforgettable.
Need Help? Contact our Event Rental Specialist to set up an appointment and design your dream tablescape today. Call us at 252-492-9800.
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