Weddings Week 2013

BHLDN's 10 Steps to the Perfect Wedding Table Setting

By Julie Davis Jun 11, 2013, 5:27pm EDT

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When it comes to wedding planning, the devil's in the details. Translation: Your perfect Pinterest wedding has the potential to go from fantasy to nightmare faster than you can say "baker's twine"—but only if you procrastinate. "If you want a DIY wedding to truly make it your own, be sure to plan ahead," advises Sara Murray, stylist at URBN Inc.'s bridal brand, BHLDN. "Leaving things to the last minute is a major culprit when it comes to decorating disasters. Ask for help!"

We traveled to BHLDN headquarters, where Murray walked us through styling a breathtaking tablescape, shared decorating tips, and revealed the 10 elements crucial for making your garden wedding decor truly spectacular.

Element 1: Fresh Flowers. "If your favorite flowers are out of season, look for a color match and size match."
Ridged Tin Vases, $4—$12
Element 2: Soft Lighting. "If the venue doesn't permit real candles, LED lights give the same warm glow. They're also a go-to choice for hanging lanterns." (
Element 3: Found Objects."Reuse items from your home, like these wrought iron garden chairs we had here at HQ."
"Consider repurposing some fabric into a table runner. Here, we used lace left over from another project."
Element 4: A Neutral Place Setting. "Let the atmosphere shine!" (Anthropologie Anatolia Dinnerware, $12—$18)
Chrysanthemum Block Print Napkin, $18 at Terrain
Element 5: The Perfect Place Card. Kraft Paper Place Cards, $12/set of 50
Terrestrial Place Card Holders, $28/set of six
Element 6: The Perfect Table Number. "A font can make a wedding and carry your look throughout the day—on menus, place cards, and signage." (
Element 7: An exciting backdrop. "Layer something neutral with something more graphic." (Parchment Pennant Garland
Element 8: Plenty of Sweets. "Tiny treats are great to give your guests a variety. It allows you to pick multiple options so you can really include all of your favorites."
Royal Icing Cake Stands, $228;
Dream in Lace Plates, $78/set of six
Element 9: A Signature Cocktail. (Derby Cups, $18/ea;
Celebrate Cake Server, $48
Element 10: Personalization. "Share something you love with your guests!" (Number Bottle Stopper, $10/ea;