Linens 'n Things: Finding the Perfect Rentals

Depending on the venue you choose, you will either have to get a lot of rentals or some rentals. I've pretty much never heard of caterers or venues that come completely equipped. That being said, we are very lucky that Paradise Ridge comes with tables, chairs, and an amazing view, so we really only had to get the basics.

Last Saturday, we headed to Wine Country Party & Events, and chose our linens, flatware, glassware, outdoor lights, and ceremony arch. While we're definitely still finalizing everything, these are some of our favorites so far.

Have you chosen your rentals yet?

Source (all photos): Wine Country Party

Table Talk

This week we began to look into our options for tables, chairs, and everything else that goes along with wedding rentals. What I thought would be a quick in-and-out chat turned into a two plus hour meeting. At the rental place we were helped by a super sweet lady who has coordinated many weddings at our venue. She was extremely helpful and learning about how other couples used the space provided a rough road-map of what works and what does not at the venue.

Up until now I had been envisioning our wedding with rustic wood tables for seating.

Source

Source

In reality these dream tables would be a pain in the but and a lot more expensive, so I think we are now leaning towards traditional rectangle or circle table with tablecloths.

Source: 1, 2 & 3

Source: 1, 2 & 3

Now onto a search for some unique table linens. How did you choose your wedding reception tables? Did you purchase or rent your table linens?

linens {more than just tablecloths}

Last week I met with my wedding planner to visit a florist and a linen store. Thanks to my preparation and research on flowers, the meeting with the florist went very well!! He was thrilled to have a bride who knew what she wanted! I even brought my iPad to show him photos from my recent E&I posts  ;-) The visit to the linen store was.... overwhelming to say the least. In hindsight, I should have done more research on my vision for table settings to at least have an idea of what I wanted.  To be honest, I didn't even know what to expect from visiting a linen store. I seriously thought, "Linens? I don't care about linens. Just throw on a white table cloth and napkins and we should be good." After the fact, I still don't care that much about linens, but I do know what I want now... something simple and elegant.  I am blogging about this today so all of you brides out there can feel more at ease when you check this off your list.

Here are some things to consider before you shop:

1. What color do you want the table cloths to be?
2. Will the napkins match?
3. Have you considered a table runner? If, so what pattern and/or texture?
4. Do you want your linens to have texture or shine? i.e. satin, cotton, lace, embroidery, etc.
5. What kind of chairs do you want? i.e. plain chairs covered in fabric with a bow, Chiavari chairs, folding chairs, etc.
6. Have you thought about a sweetheart table, or do you want the entire bridal party to be at the same table? This can get complicated if you have 8 bridesmaids and 8 groomsmen like we do.
7. If you have a dessert table and cake table, do you want the linens to match the other tables, or do you want them to stand out differently?
8. What items do you want to place on the table to add a personal touch? i.e. vases, birdcages, picture frames, etc. (stuff besides flowers)
9. Have you envisioned your cake table?

Here are some photos of tables, chairs, linens and decor to give you an idea of what to look for when collecting your inspiration:

Photo Credits: Green Wedding Shoes

Photo Credit: Style Me Pretty

As you can see, there's a lot to think about when it comes to linens. Are you a bride who has a passionate vision for your tables? Or, do you just let your planner run with it based on your colors and other inspiration. Please feel free to share your thoughts!