You pour your heart and soul into every detail when planning your wedding. Of course, you want this special day to be unforgettable and gorgeous, a true reflection of your style and personality. And, for sure, you want your guests to walk away feeling like they’ve experienced something exceptional. But how do you ensure your reception stands out and gives everyone a wow moment to save, share, and desire?
“For me, receptions are a place to be bold, playful, and show off the full design concepts of the wedding,” shares our expert Nicole Chapman, luxury wedding florist, designer, and the founder of Nicole Chapman Design. “The reception is where guests will spend most of their time, so it’s the ideal space to invest in creating those wow-worthy moments“. Below, Nicole shares 10 of her favorite ways to elevate your reception from basic to absolutely breathtaking.
MEET THE EXPERT
Based in California, Nicole Chapman Design is an art-driven floral design house that caters to sophisticated individuals who desire the creative power of an artist’s visionary designs.
With over a decade of experience, Nicole’s work is a testament to her special vision. She incorporates unique mechanics, distinct color palettes, and uncommon textures to create sensory experiences and showcase the profound beauty of nature. Her installations are not just decorations, but powerful storytelling tools that enhance the overall experience. For Nicole, event production is an interactive art form designed, installed, and ultimately lived by those celebrating a significant life transition.
Her talent has garnered attention from celebrities who entrust her with their wedding floral designs. Her work has been featured in Vogue, Martha Stewart, and more.
All floral designs showcased below are made by Nicole Chapman Design.
1. Choose the Right Floral Designer
Select a florist who can walk into a space and understand how to transform the room into something luxurious. It is especially important if you are building in a blank space or aiming for a complete makeover.
2. Select an Area of Impact to Make a Statement
Whether it’s a stunning bar, a styled lounge area, an eye-catching installation, or a massive welcome arrangement, choose a place that gives your guests a wow moment, enhances sophistication, and shows off your design. It should offer guests something to talk about and provide the ideal spot to take selfies.
3. Use a Dynamic Color Story
“I pull most of my inspiration from nature, and there is so much beautiful color to behold. It’s music to my ears when clients tell me, “What color palette do you suggest?” says Nicole Chapman. Instead of sticking to traditional white, try a color-filled approach with thought-out designs. From plates to linens and, of course, flowers, color can elevate every aspect of your reception. To make an even bolder statement, make the look monochromatic by layering in different tones of the same color. It is a chic way to infuse color while keeping the space luxurious.
4. Consider All the Other Design Elements
Don’t overlook the importance of linens and chairs—they make much of the visual field and serve as the foundation for your guest table design. So, ensure they are cohesive and contribute to the overall aesthetic rather than detracting from it.
5. Bring in Specialty Lighting
Go beyond candles and incorporate pin spots, color washes, and bogo lighting to elevate the mood. For outdoor receptions, directional lighting can highlight key areas like centerpieces and sweetheart tables, ensuring your floral arrangements shine throughout the evening. Soft dappled light washes reminiscent of a garden can transform an indoor reception.
6. Mix Up Textures
“A wedding is a sensory experience! Be sure to layer in dynamic textures and materials for visual and touch-based experiences,” Nicole says. Every element contributes to a multidimensional atmosphere, from table decor to tableware, linens, and stationery. Experiment with natural stone, handmade ceramics, specialty papers, velvet linens, and more.
7. Remember the Tabletop Flowers
Tabletop flowers are the ones guests will have the most intimate experience with—up close and personal. It’s not a place to skimp—aim for high-quality blooms and luxurious vessels to level up the design. When you focus on spectacular centerpieces, your guests will remember it.
8. Add Sentimental Touches
Weddings should be sentimental; incorporate décor reflecting your personal life, culture, or travels. They can be subtle nods, like a favorite childhood flower, a reference to your favorite vacation spot, or unique items specific to your wedding location.
9. Get Creative with Your Cake Display
“I love making small installations around my cake tables. You will always have pictures taken at the cake table, so it’s a memorable spot to do something exciting and visually stunning,” Nicole explains.
10. Incorporate Unexpected Materials
Think outside the box by incorporating styled fruits, spices, pearls, plants, or other unexpected elements to make a statement. Bringing materials not typically associated with weddings adds a unique perspective and can elevate your design from simple to captivating.
