Menus

• Guests who are coming to dine like to know what they are about to be served. Convey this information with individual menus placed in front of each table setting. Menus are not difficult to design. Start by choosing an easy to read typeface, such as Arial or Tahoma. Use boldface to set off the name of each menu item. There should be a short description of the item below the name of it. The description should tell the person reading it the main ingredients of the dish. If drinks such as wine or cocktails are being served, place the name of the drink next to the course. Tie in the design of the menus to the design of invitations. If wedding invitations were sent out with gilded edges, use gold trim to the menu.
  
  

Flowers

• Use flowers to add color to the dining tables. Flowers may have already been picked out, so consult with the party planner first. Choose colors to complement the season. If the party is in spring, decorate with spring flowers such as snowdrops and tulips. If it's a summer party, use flowers such as roses or sunflowers. Fall themed parties can be enhanced with the use of brightly colored leaves as well as flowers that have fall colors in them such as chrysanthemums. Place large vases of white flowers on the table, such as calla lilies for a winter wedding. You can also use flowers to complement the food. If you are serving tomato soup use red flowers; if you are serving a lemon tart, create a centerpiece of daisies and dahlias in between each item being served. Have waiters wear flowers in their buttonholes.
  
  

Fabric

• Use fabric to help convey a mood. If the food is being served from a buffet line, use a tablecloth in a color that reflects the theme of the party. Top tables with elegant table runners that run the whole length of the table. Place delicate a delicate lace place mat underneath each table setting.