Design & Decor Blog

Guest post by Cindy Johnson
Visit: Platinum Events Group

Luxury wedding stylist Cindy Johnson of Toronto-based Platinum Events Group knows a thing or two about throwing a great party — she regularly plans lavish weddings, both near and afar, plus some of the city`s biggest charity galas. Whether you`re planning a wedding, anniversary party or simply a dinner party for friends, Cindy shares these tips for making sure your tabletop has some pop.

Urban Parisian
This look lends itself well to weddings and events of every kind. Trees are ultra versatile and instantly transform your tabletop by adding texture and scale. Achieve this urban Parisian look by hanging tea lights, blooms and softening the branches with feathers. Rouche satin chair covers and scripted stationery add the final element of “ooh-la-la”.  Photo credit: JW Photography

Simply exotic
Beautiful blooms submerged in transparent vessels will magnify the size, contrast and colour. But not all flowers will be up to the task. Choose exotic flowers like protea which tend to be heartier. To complete the table, choose linens in a more neutral colour and add plenty of white candlelight to help further emphasize the centrepiece. To create additional drama, add a single bloom on each place setting, but ensure you use exotic flowers such as orchids, to match the centrepiece.

Regal affair
Nothing says tradition like roses and lots of them. This look is ideal for a wedding, anniversary party or major milestone celebration. Tightly bunched flower clusters are best accompanied by gold candelabras, chiavari chairs, beautiful crystal stemware, gold framed place cards and charger plates. Consider having the menu custom cut to fit in the centre of the charger. You don`t necessarily need to have all of these elements, but when it comes to pulling off this traditional look, the design is in the details. Photo credit: 5ive15ifteen Photo Co.

Mini takeaways
If you`re striving for simplicity, consider multiple mini takeaways which will ensure your guests leave with a special thank you. Ideal for a garden party or a luncheon, these earthy table toppers are eco-friendly and can be consumed or planted post-event. Purchase potted herbs or wheatgrass from your local greenhouse or landscaper and dress up the containers with spray paint, patterned ribbon or even a glass pedestal to add extra height. Photo credit: JW Photography

Romantic drama
To achieve this angelic, soft look which is ideal for romantic occasions like weddings and anniversaries, use more flowers and less filler. Ask your florist for open roses, hydrangea and peonies and cluster the centrepieces using odd denominations. Create a uniformed but lush look by clustering small, medium and large centrepieces. Couple with long lasting, eight-hour votive candles instead of tea lights. Add extra drama with pin lighting for tables and up-lighting for backdrops.   Photo credit: Andrew Adams Photography

Asian inspired
This creation is simple and contemporary and is an ideal tabletop when food is the main focus and you are serving multiple courses. Leis of orchids and specialty stemware create a clean sophistication. Use fishing wire to string orchids or other flowers but be sure to pick blooms that can survive not being in water for several hours. Napkins in a modern jewel or dark tone keep the design fashionable and keep the focus on the food and florals. Photo credit: JW Photography

Destination fresh
When considering your tabletop, remember the locale and the time of year. For example, warm climates call for flowers that can withstand the heat. Orchids, hibiscus, anthurium, wild ginger and others are ideal for humid conditions. Cotton or Frette linens keep the look fresh and breezy. If the space is already warm, keep candles low, few and long lasting so they don`t add heat to the room. Photo credit: Mikael Lamber