When you’re planning a large event like a wedding, it’s somewhat inevitable to have to use banquet tables, at least for part of your setup. But dressing and decorating banquet tables presents a unique challenge due to their size.
Fortunately, it’s totally possible to decorate a banquet table with personal style and elegance. You may need to think outside the box a bit to make things work, but with some time and thought, you can create a table setup that isn’t just passable, but preferable.
Decorating with style for any table usually means understanding what your needs are first and working from there. This is true for banquet tables, too, and perhaps more important than ever; you’ll need to ensure that they function as they’re meant to and look amazing.
Note that, typically, banquet tables are rectangular. So as you imagine your banquet table, remember that we will be going for a rectangular table linen and design.
With that said, let’s look a bit closer at what you can do to make even the largest, most daunting banquet tables stand out.
What Size Tablecloth Do I Need for a Banquet Table?
It’s important to take the time to measure your tables and determine what size tablecloth is best to suit your needs, and banquet-style tables are no exception.
There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to tablecloths; different table shapes and sizes require different dimensions, especially if you’re being particular about the look of your linens.
Professional or formal events (like weddings) often demand that even the little details, like table linens and place settings, match their surroundings. Casual events, on the other hand, may not create such a need for precision or for creating a specific, polished look.
Regardless, you’ll want to choose a tablecloth that can completely cover not just one table, but each of the tables you’ll use. If you’re working with tables of different sizes, that may mean purchasing a couple types of linens.
For more on measuring your table, ensuring your linens match the atmosphere of your event, and ultimately choosing a tablecloth that works for your banquet tables, check out our tablecloth size guide.
How to Decorate Banquet Tables: Top Tips
Once you’ve decided on a size and look for your tablecloth, you can begin to more concretely–and in more detail–plan the rest of your banquet setup.
But good decorating involves more than just beautiful table linens; it may mean adding accessories, floral arrangements, stunning flatware, and more.
There are many factors to consider, but if you do so with thought and care, you can create an end result that your event attendees won’t soon forget.
Banquet Table Layout
Before you start adding new elements to your banquet table, it’s a good idea to have some idea of the overall layout you’re aiming for. This is especially true if you’re preparing for a formal event where organization and look may matter more than usual.
Consider the purpose and function of each table you’ll be decorating.
A typical banquet table that’s set up to seat a large number of guests, for instance, will likely need to have multiple place settings and, as a result, won’t have as much free space for grandiose decoration.
Banquet Table Centerpiece Ideas
What’s a good table setup without something in the middle to tie everything together and draw in eyes? Creating a centerpiece for a banquet table can be a bit challenging given their size, but it’s also an opportunity to get creative and experiment with new linen options.
A centerpiece can be just about anything you want it to be, but some common ideas to consider include:
- Floral centerpieces: bouquets, banquet table floral arrangements, etc.
- Candles and lanterns
- Natural décor like garland, leaves, etc.
You can really make your centerpiece pop by highlighting it with different types of linens, especially table runners.
Banquet Table Linen Ideas
Regardless of the event you’re planning, it’s a good idea to shop for linens that support the overall style and desired look associated with it.
That means you might need more than just a nice tablecloth. Things like napkins, for instance, are also important parts of many banquet table setups, as are accent pieces, overlays, and more.
Below are some of our favorite ways to use table linens for a banquet table:
Play with contrast. Choosing dark linens can make other elements of your décor pop, as can choosing light linens if you’re working with other, darker hues elsewhere. While it may seem like these combos could clash, they actually can emphasize each other and create an overall look that is both bold and eye-catching.
Have fun with color. Don’t be afraid to embrace vivid colors or to use more than just a few colors in your design plan. Patterned table linens are another great way to incorporate lots of color and bring some life to your event’s setup.
Keep it simple, yet elegant. Some plans call for a more dialed-back, traditional set of linens, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice individuality or class. Consider adding simple accents like gold or silver to your design, or choose linens that play with texture rather than color.
Wedding Banquet Table Ideas
Whether you’re dressing a cake table or a dozen banquet tables, you’ll need table linens that get the job done well and consistently. Not only should your linens look nice, they should also be easy to clean and durable, especially when it comes to weddings.
Because weddings bring in lots of guests, food, and drink all at once, it’s important to find linens that can stand the test of time.
It’s also a good idea to invest in good tableware or flatware, napkins, accent linens like table runners, etc., especially if you want each element of your banquet table to flow together.
With that said, we’ve broken down some of our favorite options for wedding banquet tables of all styles to help you make a decision about what your ideal linens and décor might look like.
Table Linen Ideas for Wedding Receptions
Princess Lace Table Linen: Elevate your wedding banquet tables with this elegant lace linen that’s adorned with sequins and sure to make any bridge (or groom) feel like royalty. Elegant lace with sequins
Two-Tone Sequins Table Linen: Love some sparkle? Opt for this reversible, two-toned sequin linen for a one-of-a-kind, glamorous look.
Lush Chiffon Table Linen: This gorgeous table linen features a 3D floral embroidery atop a sheer base. Its classic beauty and unique design make it a great option for head tables!
Rustic Linen Table Linen: This down-to-earth and simple linen is ideal for rustic, outdoor barn weddings.
Miramar Jacquard Table Linen: Embrace elegance with this classy and stunning wedding tablecloth. Its metallic design combines classic and contemporary beauty into one.
Benefits of Buying a Banquet Table Linen in Bulk
Banquet tables are designed for big events; they’re easy to use, move, store, and care for. Your table linens should be just as practical, durable, and beautiful; they should also be numerous and specific enough that you can cover all of the tables you need in a breeze.
When you shop with Urquid Linen, you shop for only the best products at the most reasonable prices. Our commitment to providing amazing wholesale linens of all sorts, including but not limited to our tablecloths, means that you don’t have to spend your precious time and energy worrying about your setup.
With hundreds of fabric, pattern, and color options to choose from, our selection has something for just about everyone. You can also order your linens in custom sizes to ensure that you get the perfect fit every time.
Buying wholesale can save you quite a bit of money, too. Instead of purchasing each linen individually, order what you need all at once, all for a price that can’t be beat.
If you want linens that perform well, look amazing, and won’t break the bank, we’ve got you covered. Because there’s a lot to worry about when planning or managing an event, and linens doesn’t have to be one of them.
