Decorations in detail

Many guests will want to wear hats to the wedding so it is a really nice idea to leave a table at the reception venue for hats to be placed. Alternatively it is a lovely idea to hang hats up with ribbons which can add a decorative edge to the venue.

There should also be a table for presents at the reception venue. This should be in a prominent place, but the presents should then be moved later on in case of theft. It is usually the bride or usher who takes care of the presents at the end of the day.

Wedding favours are now more popular than ever. These used to be five sugared almonds in an organza bag which were given to the ladies at the reception to represent health, happiness, fertility, wealth and long life. These are still a cost-effective and popular choice, but there are so many other options such as:

Bottle-stoppers, cufflinks and corkscrew which are specifically designed for the men at the wedding. Sweets or small toys are a great idea for children’s favours. Mini bottles of alcohol, personalised chocolates, candles and key rings are more popular favours.

Choosing favours that fit in with the decoration of the venue and do not obstruct any tables are important. They should add to the decoration rather than detract from it and are wonderfully charming. They can often be discarded at the end of the day, however, so bear this in mind when thinking about the budget in order to prevent wasting money. An announcement could be made at the end of the reception in order to remind people to take their favours with them. The bride and groom should work out whether the cost of elaborate favours is worth it and what they may be sacrificing elsewhere in their budget.

Another great, yet simple idea is to provide disposable cameras in various colours on each table. This then enables guests to take their own pictures which can be a comical and personal touch when developed along with the professional photographs. Sometimes guests can forget to use the flash or take too many pictures of the same thing so bear the development costs in mind if choosing this idea. Sometimes giving disposable cameras to children can keep them entertained and will not hinder the cameras made available for other guests. It may be better for a few reliable friends to take photographs with digital cameras as these can easily be emailed between guests.