Wedding Reception Decorations



Brides are choosing centerpieces that are in the same color tones, but of different sizes. They are also changing the shape of the tables, mixing round with square. These trends give the reception tables a more interesting look and a less "coordinated" feel. Unique vase fillers include glass marbles, sea glass shells, acrylic ice, water absorbing crystals/beads, and fresh fruits such as lemons and limes.

Faux rose petals, diamond confetti and shells/starfish remain the most popular confetti. Also, flowering vines or individually cut flowers are placed directly onto table linens. Reception chairs are decorated with either tulle, fabric overlays, floral swags and/or ribbons. Other popular decorating items include Chinese lanterns, garlands and balloons. Disposable cameras, placed on each table, allow guests to capture candid moments.

An increasingly popular trend is the candy buffet or confection bar. This consists of a variety of candies or treats placed in varied sizes of glass containers and grouped on a table. Pretty silver spoons or scoops in each container allows guests to fill small boxes or bags as take-home favors.

Bolts of economical tulle fabric are typically combined with white lights and/or floral garlands for draping between pews and decorating banisters and ceilings. Candles, always a popular choice for centerpieces, lend a romantic feel to any room. Choices include pillars, tea lights, tapers and floaters. Since some facilities do not allow candles, alternatives include faux tea light candles, battery operated LED lights, and fiber optic lights.

Head tables are replaced with a small table for just the bride and groom. Many couples plan weekend weddings that start on Friday and go for the entire weekend. Dove releases and add drama and excitement to the event. Butterfly releases also remain popular.

How To Attend a Bridal Show

Bridal shows are a great opportunity to check out local wedding vendors, like photographers, DJ's, caterers, videographers, etc.   In organizing your big day,  a bridal show can be a great place to start.  Here are some tips to get the most out of attending a bridal show.

1. Find a show in your area.  If you're in the Northwest Arkansas, River Valley Arkansas, Southeastern Okalahoma, or Southwestern Missouri areas, NWABride Premier Showcase is your stop on January 15, 2011 at the Holiday Inn Convention Center, Springdale, Arkansas.

2. Look for ticket venues or purchase tickets online.  Our show's website http://www.nwabride.net/ will have the option of purchasing advance tickets online starting mid-December.  There will also be a list of locations to purchase advance tickets (and get a head start meeting some local vendors as well).  Of course if you don't want the advance option, there are tickets available at the door.

3. Prepare for the bridal show. Make a list of the types of vendors you need to visit (reception location, tent rental, DJ, hotels for out-of-town guests, etc).  Also, be sure to bring pens, your checkbook (for booking deposits), self-adhesive address labels of your contact information, and a tote bag to keep brochures, pamplets, and other vendor information in.  

4.  Once you arrive, plan your attack. Look over the list of exhibitors, make notes of ones you want to visit, and schedule plenty time for yourself to browse ideas there you might not have thought of (make-up the big day, teeth whitening, reception table decorations, etc.).  Don't forget the fashion show at the end of the day as well.  It's a chance to see current dress trends, how dress styles look with the tux, and possible flower arrangements. 

The Beginning of a Blog

Welcome to NWABride's Blog.  This year's upcoming show, January 15, 2011, represents a nineteen year tradition!  The NWABride Premier Showcase is for brides, their friends, and their families to meet and book everyone they will need for their wedding--one day and in one location.  All throughout the year, we search and gather everyone you'll need for your wedding.  Wedding and reception locations, cake companies, wedding coordinators, photographers, videographers, caterers, bridal attire shops, tuxedos, beauty salons, invitation printers, and so many more. When January rolls around, they gather together at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Springdale, Arkansas.   

We're excited to now have a place to offer tips, trends, and idea for brides throughout the year.  This blog is a chance to make NWABride part of your wedding planning beyond the day of the show.  We, the show owner, Mary, and show manager, Arielle, will be updating regularly with all the information and ideas we think you might find useful.  It's also a place for you to leave your great ideas, suggestions, and experiences for other brides.  Happy Wedding Planning!