Reception Hall Ideas

The venue for the wedding reception is an important choice the bride and groom must make based on location, decor and budget. Reception halls often provide an elegant space with ample room for large or small guest lists. Another factor that draws couples to reception halls is the possibility of an all-inclusive price which covers food, dinnerware, serving ware, flatware, glassware and linens. The only real element remaining is decor, which offers endless choices.

Tables

The decor elements that stand out most in a reception hall are the guest tables. These are set up in multiples, set the tone for the wedding theme and colors, showcase the couple's choice of centerpieces, and will be the place the guests spend most time aside from the dance floor. The linens, dinnerware, flatware, stemware and table decorations must all catch the guest's eye. Many reception halls are painted in neutral colors such as white or ivory with accents in gold or dark wood. While the wedding colors do not have to complement the hall, the overall effect is more harmonious if they do. For example, if the hall is white and gold, colors that match these would achieve a cohesive decor effect, such as reds, pinks or other warm colors.

Lighting

Reception halls often have lights that can be dimmed in specific places like over the dance floor and in varying degrees over the rest of the hall. To complement these electrical lights, candles and holders can be placed throughout the hall to add an air of romance and elegance. Candles are the most common lighting for weddings and special events due to the soft glow they produce. They can illuminate the guest tables and any other space that needs just a little bit of light.

Centerpieces

Centerpieces are the most visible and memorable decor element at a wedding reception. When guests enter the hall, the centerpieces will stand out in the middle of each table and will be the primary design focus once they are in their seats. These decor elements must tie in the wedding colors, theme and style. For example, for an elegant centerpiece for smaller weddings, a collection of pillar candles surrounded by a scattering of rose petals would look lovely. A larger, more grand space might benefit from tall Eiffel Tower vases filled with white ostrich feathers.

Props and Background

Many reception halls are very simple and may even have walls or spaces that are less attractive to the couple. Large swaths of rich fabric such as satin or tulle can be draped over these elements to hide them with something more glamorous. This might be a good option for the area behind the head table as all eyes will be in that direction. The same concept can be solved with rented props such as large potted plants or sparkly trees, depending on the event.