If I had a nickel for every time a bride tells me that she is a 'visual person,' I'd be a millionaire!

We always try to do a mini mock for our wedding planning clients. We'll get samples of linens, chargers, napkins, chair covers or chivari chairs from local rental company; have your florist create a centerpiece; and create table numbers, placecards, menus, or whatever other printed pieces you'd like on the table. This gives you a chance to see what the table will look like on the wedding day. It also helps your vendors better read (and correct, if needed) the vision of your wedding tablescape.


mini mock


Actual wedding day tablescape by Marti Thompson, photo by Daniel Michael.

The best time to do a tablescape is at your catering or reception hall tasting, or if you have an event (like a bridal shower) planned for that weekend. That way, you can use the flowers again. Your florist may also have a bridal show that she can use at her booth, or can reuse the flowers in another arrangement for someone else. However you decide to plan that part of things, make sure to give your florist at least three weeks notice so they can order the fresh flowers for you.