Brunch Table Ideas

Brunches work well as an entertaining option for holidays, birthdays, showers, graduations and other celebrations. The menu options offer more flexibility since you can combine both breakfast and lunch choices. Both buffet and plated meals work well at a brunch. The table decor sets the tone for the brunch. Does this Spark an idea?

Table Settings

The table covering and place settings create the tone for the brunch table. Choose a color or pattern for the tablecloth that matches the event. For an Easter brunch, choose a cloth with Easter eggs or bunnies printed on it. For a more general option, go with a pastel color. Add a complementary place mat to each spot at the table. Place the plates and silverware in each spot to round out the basic place settings. For a special touch, add a decoration on top of each plate. Napkins folded into creative designs, a single flower tied with a ribbon or a stem of fresh herbs tucked into the napkin ring work well.

Place Cards

Place cards help the guests find their seats while adding extra decoration to the brunch table. A simple option is to place each name card inside a small, decorative picture frame. Set the picture frames at each table setting. The guests can bring home the picture frames at the end of the brunch as a keepsake. A flower with the name tag attached by a ribbon is another decorative place card option for the brunch table.

Centerpieces

The centerpieces serve as the main focal point of the brunch table. Flower arrangements are a standard centerpiece option. Add a distinct touch to the flower arrangements to make them stand out. For a fall brunch, place the flower arrangement inside a hollow pumpkin. For a Christmas brunch, fill a clear vase with cranberries and water before placing the flower arrangement inside.

A tiered serving stand works well for a custom centerpiece. Arrange various decorations on the stand to fit the theme. Pine boughs and ball ornaments arranged on the tiers of the serving stand work well for Christmas. Easter grass and decorated Easter eggs make a pretty decoration for an Easter brunch. You can also place decorated desserts such as cupcakes or cookies on the stand. The desserts serve a decorative and functional purpose.

Menu

A printed menu adds a creative touch to the brunch table. The guests get a preview of the brunch offerings before the food hits the plates. Print out the names of the foods and beverages you're serving. Make individual menus for each place setting, or make one larger menu placed inside a picture frame.

Favors

Favors give your guests a special thank you gift at the end of the brunch. Place the favors on the tables near each place setting to add to the decoration. The favors can double as place cards in some situations. For example, you might hand paint a terra cotta flower pot for each guest that includes her name on it. Place the pot next to her spot at the table with some seeds tucked inside. She knows where to sit and gets to take home a flower pot. Other favor ideas include tea samples, gourmet candy or a CD.