Aletha is back with another great tip for event design: specialty linens, perhaps the most singularly important element in creating a distinctive table. What a difference a little color and texture can make to complete a look! If you’ve seen any of the weddings by Pearls Events, you know this is sage advice!
Linens are the stage for the any centerpiece, regardless of what will be gracing your tables—from candles and flowers to less traditional options like vintage birdcages and books. Linens will transform even the simplest table design into a show-stopper. It is standard practice for catering companies and reception venues to supply clients with standard white linens. However, upgrading to specialty linens is the number one piece of design advice I give to any bride-to-be. Guests will notice, centerpieces will pop, and your photographer will be thrilled with your choice.
Although linens are an investment, it’s a wise one if you’re looking to make a big impact with you event design. Also, your event planner, or day-of-coordinator, will be there to make sure each one hangs straight and even, and if time allows, each one should be ironed before being placed on the table.
I realize not every town in the Midwest has their own local linen company. Even in Grand Rapids, Michigan we are limited on what is available locally. Nationally, however, I work with amazing linen companies, including BBJ Linen and La Tavola, that continually supply my clients with gorgeous choices. Even if you are not hiring a wedding planner, contact a local planner to see if you can simply work with her on just linens if you cannot find a local company to go through.
Nothing proves the point more than photos can! For more from Pearl Events‘ recent shoot with Telltale Photography, Stems Events and The B.O.B. Also, our latest project from McMaster & Storm, hand-dyed vintage linens. How are you thinking about table design for your day?
Don’t miss our Grand Rapids Unveiled wedding fair giveaway—one great opportunity to meet Aletha and some of Michigan’s finest! We’ve still got a couple tickets left and they’re going, going…!
I know this sounds crazy – especially because I don’t make any money on linens – but if my brides aren’t budgeting for linens, I recommend they forgo some of their flowers to pay for linens! That how strongly I believe that nice linens contribute to the ambiance of the event!
Janet – I completely agree with you! Thank you for sharing your opinion – they make SUCH a difference and I am thrilled to hear a florist’s thoughts on the subject.
I’m so surprised! I’ve never thought of linens as such an important part of your table.
My wedding is still a year and a half away… we don’t even have a venue yet. but my initial thought and I’m still loving this idea is to have burlap of some kind on the table. whether it act as a table runner (I really want long tables) or something else(maybe place mats!). I think it will bring a real dinamic element to the tables.