A Contributor Piece by Tia Lasswell of Capstone Occasions

We’re thrilled to feature this contributor post from Tia Lasswell, the founder and lead planner of Capstone Occasions, a wedding planning and event coordination company based in Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin. Tia is a certified wedding planning expert with a special passion for travel and destination weddings. Capstone Occasions offers a range of services to support couples in every stage of the planning process, including Full-Service Planning & Coordination, Partial Planning, Event Coordination, Vendor Management, and Planning Strategy Sessions.

Today, Tia is sharing her professional insight on how to make your wedding reception truly unforgettable with tablescaping tips that go far beyond centerpieces. Whether you're planning a luxurious soirée or an intimate gathering, these design ideas will help you elevate your wedding décor and create an atmosphere your guests won’t forget.

Tablescaping Tips to Elevate Your Wedding Décor

By Tia Lasswell, Capstone Occasions

When guests walk into your wedding reception, one of the first things they’ll notice is the tablescape. More than just place settings, your table décor tells a story. It sets the tone for your event, evokes emotion, and ties together your entire vision for the day.

If you’re looking to elevate your wedding décor beyond the basics, here are some inspired tablescaping ideas that go far beyond traditional centerpieces and charger plates.

1. Play with Layered Textures

Don’t underestimate the power of texture. Combine different fabrics and materials—for instance, velvet napkins with a leather tieback, rattan chargers, and stoneware plates, or linen runners on a wood farm table. Layering these elements creates visual interest and depth without the need for an elaborate floral arrangement.

2. Incorporate Unexpected Color Palettes

Neutrals are timeless, but bold and moody color palettes are making waves. Rich burgundies, dusty blues, mustard tones, and even black accents can make your table feel fresh and fashion-forward. Try color-blocking with glassware, menus, or taper candles for a modern twist.

3. Curated Tabletop Details

Personalized name cards, custom menu cards, or handwritten notes at each place setting can make your guests feel truly seen. Consider adding a touch of whimsy or luxury with wax seals, velvet ribbons, or dried florals on each napkin.

4. Mix High and Low Floral Design

Elevate your floral game with a mix of centerpiece heights. Low arrangements provide intimacy, while tall installations draw the eye upward. One of my favorite looks includes bud vases spaced intentionally for a minimalist editorial style that still feels abundant.

5. Candlelight is Key

Nothing sets a romantic mood like candlelight. Mix pillar candles, taper holders, and tea lights in varying heights and styles. Clear, colored, or vintage glass holders add dimension and charm—especially as the sun goes down.

6. Design Each Table with Intention

Your guest tables don’t all need to match perfectly. A mix of round and rectangular tables, varied centerpiece styles, or alternating linen colors can create a beautiful visual rhythm. Just be sure there’s a unifying design thread throughout—whether it’s color, texture, or a shared theme.

7. Think Beyond the Table

What surrounds the table matters too. Consider overhead elements like hanging greenery, chandeliers, or suspended florals. Ground the space with rugs, specialty chairs, or statement chargers to create a full vignette your guests won’t want to leave.

Final Thoughts

A well-designed tablescape invites your guests into your celebration with intention and style. It’s not just about beauty—it’s about creating an atmosphere that reflects your story. At Capstone Occasions, we love helping couples turn tables into conversation pieces. From romantic and refined to modern and bold, we’ll help you dream beyond the ordinary.