One of the most important design considerations for a sit-down banquet is tabletop décor. Guests see the table décor throughout the meal, and the tablescape can influence the mood of the attendees.

Centerpieces

Centerpieces should be attractive and appropriate for the type of function booked. Floral arrangements of cut flowers, potted plants, or foliage combined with candles, lights, and ice carvings are excellent centerpieces — appropriate for any type of food or beverage function.

First, consider how the flowers will look on the day that you will be using them. If you want flowers in full bloom, you should purchase them a few days early to allow them to open.

If you are going to use roses on the same day as they are purchased, order “funeral roses,” which are at their peak of bloom. Store flowers between 38 and 45 degrees F. Keep in mind that strongly scented flowers, such as tiger lilies or hibiscus, can interfere with the palate, i.e., affect the taste of the food.

Mirrors are often used as a base for centerpieces. They can reflect flickering candles placed around a centerpiece. The mirrors should be clean so that the light doesn't show fingerprints or dust.

An important placement rule is that centerpieces on dining tables should be placed under or over sight lines. You do not want guests to feel uncomfortable peering under, over, or around a centerpiece to see the person on the other side. For height, use an “epergne,” a container with a slender center portion that does not obstruct the view across the table. A centerpiece should not overpower a table.

I am a proponent of edible centerpieces. A bountiful basket of various types of breads — sourdough, rye, yeast, breadsticks — makes an attractive and inviting centerpiece. Other edible centerpieces include a fancy relish tray, an antipasto platter, or an assortment of dessert items.

Unique centerpieces can be conversation starters at events. Crystal ball ice domes can be created with a variety of theme-based items frozen inside, including silk flowers, statues, and even lighted candles. There are great examples at www.icecaters.com.

Table Linens

Table linens range from standard hotel tablecloths to special rental linens. Floor-length tablecloths can create a dramatic effect if the banquet setup crew doesn't push the chairs in — the cloths should hang straight all of the way to the floor.

Overlays are round or square tablecloths that are placed on top of the full tablecloth. Overlays can be used for color or fabric contrast. Either the overlay or the tablecloth can be patterned and the other one a solid color. Fabrics include satins, satin stripes, sheers, lames, damasks, Jacquards, and even fancy brocades. Overlays are available in 60-, 72-, and 84-inch rounds. Napkins come in 20-inch and 22-inch squares.

A variety of Web sites offer napkin-folding instructions, including www.napkinfoldingguide.com. Use your favorite Web search engine to look for “napkin folds.”

Chair Covers

Chair covers complete the look. They are available in assorted sizes and colors. Chair sashes make an event more elegant. Flowers or feathers can be fastened to the bow.

Patti J. Shock, CPCE, is director of distance learning, Harrah College of Hotel Administration, University of Nevada, Las Vegas.