Tablescapes are arrangements of items gathered in a grouping on top of a table. They're sometimes called tabletop arrangements. A tablescape can include a centerpiece, or it can simply contain an arrangement of your favorite items. Tablescapes refer to the way things are laid out, like in a landscape painting.

Traditionally, more than three items as a tablescape can be difficult to arrange. Some popular wedding reception tablescapes can include floral centerpieces, candlelabras, pillar candles, votive candles, glass cylinders with floating candles, balloons, picture frames, lamps, seashells, decorative plates, and chargers. Specialty linens are very popular to add color and texture to the tablescape.

Here are some patterns and fabrics to consider: Imperial Stripe, Sheers, Themed Prints, Damask, Velvet, Stars, Sequins, Organza, Lame, Laces, Satins and Solids. These fabrics and patterns are available in tablecloths, overlays, chair covers and/or chair ties.

Color is the best tool of design. Color can affect your emotions, and mood. When designing tablescapes and table settings, be consistent with color; then you can mix patterns and shapes. When having floral arrangements, they should be of different heights, sizes and textures.

For balance, the tablescape should be arranged in staggering heights and cover only one third of the table. The result of a tablescape should be a harmonious one. This means that the eyes of your guests should flow easily from left to right. The selection and placement of objects in a tablescape should present a feeling of harmony and unity.

Harmony (scale, proportion, and balance) can be achieved using color, depth, layering and textures.

In order to create a harmonious tablescape, you need to have:

Scale - If you have a large table, your arrangement should be large. If you have a small table, your arrangement should be small. The objects should relate to the space that they are in.

Balance- All parts of the design need to have a balanced look.

Layering or Stacking - Layering or stacking is achieved with color, texture, height, and placement, such as using items of three different heights on one surface or grouping a cluster of items. The different forms, shapes, colors, and textures should have a harmonious feel and be unified in their presentation.

Tablescape your guest tables and your headtable. If you are not comfortable doing it yourself, hire a professional to do it for you. There is nothing like walking into your reception and seeing the beautifully decorated tables with a unified look throughout the entire space.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Rene'John Designs offers its clients an individualized design experience with attention to detail.  By listening to her customers and applying information that she obtains from their personalities and lifestyles , Rene' designs an event reflecting her clients' vision -not Rene's.
Her services includes floral design, rentals, custom linens, lighting and wedding consultation.
Rene's one goal is to deliver a level of excellence like none other. 
www.renejohndesigns.com