Your reception tables might feel like a big obstacle to overcome for decorating, but it doesn’t have to feel like an impossible feat! If you crave a Joanna Gaines style but you’re wondering how to decorate reception tables on a budget, listen up: we have some great news for you!
On your next Target run, you can actually harness the farmhouse-inspired style of the lovely Ms. Gaines and her signature products with the Hearth & Hand With Magnolia collection. You probably already know of this product line… and if you’ve been in a Target in the past year or so, you’ve seen it along with all those candles you’ve sniffed. Ha! But did you know you can actually decorate like a pro thanks to these stylish finds? It’s true, and we’re showing you how it’s done!
Today we’re sharing easy tips on how to decorate wedding reception tables on a budget and make it look amazing especially if you crave a minimalist, rustic, farmhouse style. If you have long reception tables or round tables, you can use these decorating products in your design and then take them home to enjoy at home.
That sounds like a win-win to me. An excuse to shop everything Magnolia, for your wedding AND your home? Thx!
Let’s get started!
Wedding Reception Tables on a Budget
1. Start with a runner.
First, every wedding table needs a runner. You can also choose a tablecloth. However, we think if the wood table underneath is stylish enough, don’t hide it under a gigantic linen tablecloth. Instead, show off that wood exterior and make it pop with a vibrant texture like greenery runners or gauze runners like these. You’ll thank me later. :)
Gauze
If I was getting married this year, I would definitely utilize a gauze runner like this (by LinenLark):
Don’t shy away from vibrant colors! Choose something that coordinates with your color palette and run with it. Bright, bold colors will add to the overall look and contribute that fun pop of color your wedding guests are sure to notice.
Shop more colors here.
Greenery
Atop your runner, you can select your favorite greenery. You can get fresh greenery in bulk for weddings or you can opt for faux greenery that will last after the big day.
You can also shop by specific greenery, such as:
• Or get inspired with the latest greenery trends here
You can also shop these stylish greenery garlands as an easy way to decorate wedding reception tables on a budget. These three options are available at Target online or in your local store.
I love this faux Hazel leaf! Also from Target here.
And last but not least, eucalyptus greenery with seeds! This is faux but just as lovely as the real deal. By Target, shop here.
Runner? Greenery? Check and check! Wow, look at you go, well on your way to decorating wedding reception tables on a budget. Now you just need to add some florals. :)
Add Arrangements
If fresh flowers aren’t your thing, faux floral arrangements can provide the same aesthetic on a budget and with versatility — and more usability! — than fresh blooms.
You can add these faux white dogwood arrangements to your tables as mini centerpieces, great for adding to the runners of long rectangular tables.
Prefer greenery? Maybe a mix of both? Incorporate faux hoya leaf arrangements.
Add Candles
Now, you need to add a few candles. Personally, I love the look of farmhouse-style taper candles, but this is your wedding — you do you! Pillar candles, wedding candles in bulk, or taper candles are all fantastic options.
Plus, candles are one of the easiest ways to decorate reception tables on a budget. (Buying in bulk? Try these!)
PRO TIP: If you’re adding candles, read this post first! Scents are a big no, just FYI.
Beeswax Taper Candles
These taper candles feature a unique beeswax blend; I love the bright yellow color, paired with these white taper candle holders. From Hearth & Hand™. Buy here.
Or these white taper candles in a contrasting black taper holder set: my new fave! By Hearth & Hand by Magnolia. Get yours here.
Prefer brass? You’ve got it! These are from Threshold; buy here.
And last but not least, soapstone candle holders. These are by Studio McGee. Shop here.
Or these! By Beau-coup. So stylish!
If you don’t like taper candles, try these votive candles with a long burn time and bulk pricing. Then, add them to modern holders like these from Beau-coup.
Or these!
Platform
Sometimes, a reception table needs a centerpiece riser or platform to complete the look. Use your best judgment here. If you feel like it needs a little “something extra”, go for it. This is best suited when you decorate a wedding reception table that is round in shape since it provides more of that central focal point.
For ideas, try these:
These real wood slices are dried and designed for use at your wedding. Many sizes available. By RusticWoodSlices.
Lazy susans are overlooked, but they’re an incredible resource at your wedding! If you have a menu card or have favors placed on them, guests can turn them easily in their direction to read or take one! Great idea and wonderful for use at home after the big day. :) By Hearth & Hand™ with Magnolia. Shop here.
This versatile piece works great for centerpieces and beyond! Get it here.
Great for mini appetizers during cocktail hour, candles, floral arrangements — anything! From Hearth & Hand™ with Magnolia. Buy here.
And there you have it! Now all you need are your day-of supplies to add to the table, and decorate those place settings like this! You can shop these ideas at Minted.
You’re a pro at this, we know you can do it! :)
Browse more wedding reception tables decorating ideas:
• Target
• Minted
• Etsy
• Amazon
Did these decorating tips for wedding reception tables on a budget help? We hope so! Tell us about it in the comment box below!
Happy Planning!
xo
Emma
