How to Decorate Wedding Reception Tables That Feel Calm, Thoughtful, and Beautiful

Brenda Gebhardt
Jan 17
4 min read

Updated: Jan 27

A practical guide for round and rectangular tables at Yellowbrick on 39

One of the things couples often say after touring Yellowbrick on 39 is,“I want it to feel beautiful—but not overdone.” That balance matters. Reception tables should feel welcoming, intentional, and peaceful—never cluttered or chaotic. Whether you’re planning round tables, long rectangular tables, or a mix of both, a few thoughtful choices go a long way. Below are the tips we share most often with our couples—based on what works best in our barn, gardens, and surrounding landscape (including the peaceful backdrop of the Norma Johnson Conservation Center just beyond our back gate).

Decorating Round Wedding Tables

Classic, cozy, and timeless

Round tables are a favorite for good reason. They encourage conversation, photograph beautifully, and bring a softness to the space—especially for garden-inspired and romantic barn weddings.

Choose a centerpiece that fits the table

The center of a round table is the anchor.

Low, full floral arrangements feel abundant and inviting
Taller centerpieces work best when they’re airy and open. Nothing should feel heavy or block conversation.

Let symmetry work for you

Round tables love balance.

A floral arrangement
A small group of candles
A lantern with greenery

Keeping the design centered and intentional creates a calm, polished look.

Layer gently

This is where tables start to feel elevated without trying too hard.

Soft linens or neutral tablecloths
Chargers for warmth and texture
Napkins folded or draped simply

We love when couples work with designers like Elegance by Heather, who understand how to layer details in a way that feels refined—not fussy.

Candlelight changes everything

Candles soften the barn and create such a peaceful glow as the evening unfolds.

Mix votives, tapers, and pillars
Keep spacing even and uncluttered. Simple candlelight goes a long way here.

Leave space for guests

One of the most important tips: don’t crowd the table. Guests should have room to breathe, talk, and enjoy the meal. A table that feels calm is always more inviting than one that feels “full.”

Decorating Rectangular (Farmhouse-Style) Tables

Effortless, warm, and gathered

Long rectangular tables bring a beautiful sense of togetherness and work especially well in barn settings.

Think length, not clusters

Instead of a single centerpiece, decorate down the table.

Flowing greenery
Bud vases repeated evenly
Candles spaced with intention

This creates movement and a natural rhythm.

Keep everything low

Rectangular tables shine when guests can see one another.

Low florals
Greenery runners
Simple candle groupings

This style feels welcoming and encourages long conversations—something we see couples value more and more.

Repetition feels peaceful

Using the same elements again and again (candles, napkins, vases) creates a sense of order and calm. It also photographs beautifully in our light-filled barn.

Let the table speak

If you’re using wooden farmhouse tables, skip heavy linens.

A simple runner or greenery
Neutral napkins
Warm candlelight

The natural textures pair perfectly with the relaxed elegance couples love at Yellowbrick.

A Note from the Wedding Venue

The most beautiful receptions we host all share one defining quality: intentional simplicity.

When couples begin with a thoughtfully curated foundation—refined linens, layered candlelight, and a cohesive floral vision—and then entrust experienced vendors to bring it all together, the day unfolds with ease and quiet confidence. When a venue includes much of this elevated décor as part of the experience, it is something truly special—an understated luxury that simplifies decisions, enhances the overall design, and allows couples to remain fully present, savoring every moment of their celebration. The most beautiful receptions we host all have one thing in common: intentional simplicity.

When couples choose a consistent base—linens, candles, floral style—and then let trusted vendors do what they do best, the entire day feels smoother.

When the details are handled well, couples can simply be present—and that’s always our goal.That includes thoughtful partners like:

Hanzbach Mobile Bartending, whose calm, professional presence keeps cocktail hour flowing
Theo's Restaurant, known for comforting, crowd-pleasing meals that bring people together

Planning Your Wedding at Yellowbrick on 39

At Yellowbrick on 39, we believe a wedding day should feel peaceful, organized, and joy-filled—from the first table set to the final candle blown out.

Our Northeast Ohio barn and garden venue offers:

Full-service setup and teardown
Curated décor options
A setting surrounded by nature and quiet beauty

If you’re newly engaged and dreaming of a reception that feels warm, welcoming, and thoughtfully done, we’d love to invite you out for a tour and walk through the possibilities together.

We are dedicated to using our platform to support other locally owned wedding venues. In every blog we write, we will include links to locally owned wedding venues who use their articles to support their colleagues and the wedding industry in ways that are not always recognized but are essential. Be prepared to be inspired by the beauty of their venues and talent of their clients and vendors. If you are searching for a wedding venue, please consider a locally owned venue, you can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map