A mate of mine who’s worked in PR for years always says ‘perception is reality’ and when it comes to how an event looks she’s so right! Theming an event – even if it’s simply choosing a colour scheme – can really set the tone, formal or relaxed, festive or sedate. Beautifully dressed tables and decorated spaces speak volumes about the reason you’ve gathered everyone together and the thought that’s gone into ensuring everyone enjoys themselves.

Here’s a few tips to help you achieve the look you’re going for:

1. Fresh flower arrangements on each table are always a good idea – just make sure they don’t get in the way of cross-table conversation.

2. Novelty place cards work well too, like these green apples we used at a Tasmanian-themed birthday party recently.

3. If you’re going for an intimate romantic look, small votive or eternal candles at every place setting can achieve this very easily.

4. Go the extra mile by decorating the backs of the chairs in your chosen colour scheme or choosing a fancy style of chair for your event. It’s a great way of pulling the whole look together.

5. Make sure there aren’t too many tables and there is plenty of room for your guests to push their chairs back and stand up. There’s nothing worse than guests feeling trapped at their table!

And if you’re planning to have speeches or presentations, schedule them for early in the event and try not to have them drag on too long. That way the speakers can enjoy themselves without having to worry about getting up to present. Your guests will thank you too – they can enjoy the food and conversation – and any after dinner entertainment, like dancing, can take place in a timely fashion.

Yours in good food and great events,

Kellee