Decorating Buffet Tables for a Party

Background

Decorating your buffet tables for a party begins with an appropriate backdrop for your food and other decorations. White linen tablecloths are common for bridal showers, while a more colorful party-themed tablecloth works best for your child's birthday. Your buffet table should not compete with your food; decorations should complement any serving dishes or floral arrangements you plan to use. Buffet tables are set up for food service, but they will also help to set the tone for your party. Two helmets placed against each other in the middle of a Super Bowl buffet table or a delicate arrangement of baby booties as the centerpiece of your baby shower buffet will add to the ambiance in the room. Long buffet tables should have decorations spaced every 3 to 4 feet and may include flowers, candles, dioramas or anything creative relating to your party.

Food

Once the tablecloth and centerpieces are set, placing the food for service is your next priority. Warming trays that require electricity should be placed first for the best outlet access. If you're using chaffing dishes with candles, they will likely be the largest serving dishes on your table, so space them apart for balance. Your serving platters should match as closely as possible for more formal parties, such as all sterling or crystal for a wedding reception. Decorating buffet tables for a holiday party or for any party with a theme can be more relaxed, with coordinated serving platters that work well with the theme. Fall colors such as rust, green and amber blend together well for a Thanksgiving buffet, while shades of red and gold work well for a Christmastime buffet.

Flow

Decorating a buffet table for a party is a matter of taste and personal style, but a few simple tips will keep your party moving smoothly. Decorating buffet tables for service on both sides will help keep the flow of activity around the table moving, especially for large parties. Place your plates, napkins and cutlery on one end of the buffet table, with the plates indicating the beginning and the napkins and cutlery ready for pickup as your guests finish working their way around the table. It's easier to serve yourself if you are not trying to balance more than your plate at one time. Separate the plates from the napkins and cutlery with a bowl of mints or nuts. If your buffet table is set for service on one side only, decorate with your plates on one end and the napkins and cutlery on the other. Arrange the buffet table so that your guests have an easy exit from the room after service, keeping the flow moving in one direction.