Table Setting Ideas for a Rehearsal Dinner

At a wedding rehearsal dinner, table settings can help set the mood for the wedding event. Choose table settings that complement the theme and decor of the wedding, or go in another direction that is meaningful to the engaged couple. Rehearsal dinner decorations are often less formal than the wedding table settings, but you can choose a style that suits your personality.

Photo Garden

For a meaningful table setting, use a photo garden centerpiece that celebrates the special moments in the engaged couple's lives. Choose a selection of photographs that show the progression of the relationship, from the first date to the proposal. Print the photographs in black and white for an elegant, cohesive look. Find silver wire photo holders that have thin metal holders extending up from a solid base. Put two photos back to back and insert them into the holder. Line the photos up down the center of the table so that people on each side can see different shots. Use varying heights to increase visual interest.

Family Style

To make your wedding guests, attendants, officiant and other rehearsal dinner guests feel like family, go with a family-style table setting. Use a single long table or multiple tables to make the entire group feel unified, and serve food in large bowls and dishes scattered down the center of the table. Use a selection of mismatched dishes to create an eclectic, shabby-chic feeling, and encourage guests to pass dishes around as they serve themselves. This type of table setting will create a relaxed, informal feeling that will help everyone feel at home.

Romance

A rehearsal dinner can set the tone for the wedding to come; if you want to establish an atmosphere of romance, use lush, glowing table settings. Use centerpieces made of white and pale pink flowers overflowing from low containers, and pair them with white candles to create a warm glow. Use sparkling crystal glassware and white china rimmed in gold. The lights from the candles will reflect off the place settings for a sparkling, twinkling effect. Make place cards with flowing, curling script, and consider using circular menus placed on top of the plate.

Honeymoon Theme

If you will be traveling for your honeymoon, use the location as the theme for your rehearsal dinner. For a trip to Paris, use centerpieces with tiny Eiffel Towers surrounded by French memorabilia; for Italy, make centerpieces with wine bottles and candles. Use vintage postcards, framed photographs of the country or memorabilia that relates to the location. Use place settings that work in elements of the destination: elegant maple-leaf napkin rings for a trip to Vermont, for example, or china in the bright colors of Provence for a trip to France.