The sweetheart table is a traditional and timeless feature at weddings. This small but mighty detail can add a personalized touch to your big day, and create a memorable and intimate atmosphere. It’s the one place the newlyweds can take a breather and enjoy some much-needed alone time while still being the center of attention. If you’re wondering what to put on your sweetheart table, don’t worry; we’ve got you covered.
The Basics of a Sweetheart Table
A sweetheart table is a table for two, with the bride and groom seated side by side or facing each other, often raised on a small stage or runway. It’s usually positioned in front of the head table, facing all of the wedding guests, so that the bride and groom can see everyone who participated in their special day. The table should have a beautiful centerpiece and be decorated with the theme colors and floral arrangements of the wedding.
What Goes on a Sweetheart Table?
There are no hard and fast rules for what should go on a sweetheart table. We recommend picking a few items that are personal to you as a couple and work with the overall wedding theme. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
A Personalized Sign
A personalized sign with the newlyweds’ names or initials, accompanied by the wedding date, can add a touch of personality and charm to your sweetheart table. You can choose a rustic, modern, or whimsical sign to match the wedding’s theme and colors.
Flower Arrangements
Flower arrangements are a traditional and eye-catching item for the sweetheart table. Whether you prefer single blooms in an elegant vase, a soft and romantic floral garland, or a mix of flowers in a stunning floral centrepiece, the possibilities are endless.
Table Linens
Beautiful table linens can set the tone for an elegant and sophisticated sweetheart table. Choose your linens to match the overall color scheme and add lace overlays, napkins, or table runners for texture and dimension.
Candles or Lighting
Candles or lighting can create a romantic and intimate atmosphere for the newlyweds. You can choose from fairy string lights for a whimsical look to candelabras for a classic touch.
Personalized Place Settings
Personalized place settings add a charming and cozy feeling to the sweetheart table. You can add wedding favors, customized wine glasses with initials or names, or menu cards.
Top Tips for a Beautifully Decorated Sweetheart Table
Now that you know what goes on a sweetheart table, here are a few tips to make sure it looks spectacular:
Keep it Personalized
Adding personalized touches to the table is a great way to show off your unique style and personality as a couple. Personalized items like favors, wine glasses can add an extra touch of elegance.
Stick to the Wedding Theme
Stick to your wedding theme when it comes to decorating the sweetheart table. The table should be a part of the overall theme, not a separate entity.
Don’t Forget the Chairs
The chairs for the bride and groom should not be overlooked. These chairs should match the overall decor and stand out as the focal point of the table.
Consider the Backdrop
The backdrop for the sweetheart table should be beautiful and customized. It can be a simple floral arrangement, rustic wooden backdrop, or something more expressive that complements your wedding theme.
Conclusion
The sweetheart table is a small but significant detail in a wedding reception that can make a huge impact. It’s the perfect place to create a personalized, intimate atmosphere that reflects your unique style as a couple. With these tips, you can create a stunning display to add that extra touch of romance to your special day.
FAQ
Is the bride on the left or right of the sweetheart table?
Traditionally, during a wedding reception, the bride and groom sit at a special table known as the sweetheart table. This table is usually located at the center of the reception hall and is decorated with beautiful flowers and other décor.
Nowadays, couples have various seating arrangement options to choose from, which can cause confusion on where the bride should sit at the sweetheart table. This often leads to the question, “Is the bride on the left or right of the sweetheart table?”
Traditionally, the bride sits on the left side of the table and the groom sits on the right side, facing their guests. This is because the bride is supposed to sit at the left side of her groom, according to historical tales. Back in the day, when the groom would have to protect the bride from potential harm during the ceremony, having her sit on his left side would give him the advantage of using his right hand, thereby being able to defend her more adequately.
However, it is not mandatory for the couple to follow the traditional wedding seating arrangement. In some instances, couples choose to sit next to each other at the center of the sweetheart table, with their bridesmaids and groomsmen seated at another table. Other couples prefer to sit side by side, with the bride sitting on the left or the right side depending on their preference.
While it is traditional that the bride sits on the left side of the sweetheart table, modern times have made it possible for couples to choose their seating arrangement, and this decision should be made based on what works best for the couple. what matters is that the bride and groom are happy and comfortable at their wedding reception.
What is the difference between a head table and a sweetheart table?
When it comes to wedding receptions, there are a lot of decisions to be made, from the guest list to the menu, to decor options. One important decision is determining the type of table setup you would like for you and your partner at the reception. Traditionally, there are typically two options: a head table setup or a sweetheart table setup.
A head table is a long table that faces the guests and is typically set up on a platform or stage. This table is larger and includes the bridal party and/or close family members along with the newly married couple. The idea behind the head table is to show off the newly married couple to all of their guests and make them the center of attention- especially if everyone is already seated.
On the other hand, a sweetheart table setup is much smaller – seating only the honored couple. This setup is becoming more popular nowadays and is sometimes referred to as a “lover’s table” or “sweetheart table.” This table is typically round or rectangular and is placed near the center of the room, allowing everyone to see the couple. The idea behind the sweetheart table is to give the newly married couple some much-needed alone time to talk and savor the moment.
There are several pros and cons to both options. The head table setup allows for everyone to sit together, take photos together, and enjoy the meal together. It’s a great way to ensure that the newlywed couple is surrounded by supportive family and friends throughout the entire reception. However, it can also be overwhelming for some couples, having to share their entire meal with such a large group of people.
The sweetheart table, on the other hand, provides a more intimate setup for the newlyweds. It allows for them to eat and converse without interruptions and provides some much-needed personal time during the event. It’s also great for other guests as they can freely move around the table and dance all night long without worrying about interrupting the couple’s meal. However, this setup does not allow for the rest of the bridal party or family members to sit together.
There is no right or wrong answer to this decision- it is purely subjective depending on what the couple envisions for their big day. Whether you choose a head table or a sweetheart table, the most important thing is to enjoy your special day and savor every moment together.
