Dear Flourgal,
I'm trying to decide between a buffet table or regular sit down dinner for an upcoming event. The cost difference is vast, yet a buffet can seem tacky. We are on a budget, and the party will be hosted at our home. We are transforming the backyard with a white tent, dance floor and dj. It is for our 10th anniversary and we want to make it amazing, yet economical. Can you suggest a way for me to decorate the buffet or should I forego it all together?
From,
Distressed in Detroit, Detroit, MI
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Dear Distressed,
Congrats on celebrating your long-lasting nuptials with friends and family. It sounds like a wonderful time. How about breaking up the traditional buffet table(s) with smaller square tables that can be formed along a wall, in an L-shape, or spaced a few feet apart which will allow for people to easily navigate and spread out. You can cover each table with shades of monochromatic linens (e.g. dark and lighter beiges or tans, shades of teal, jade, sky blue, variations of plum and burgandy) with a black lace topper for something vintage or extra big scarfs for something eclectic.
For flowers I'd suggest complimentary monochromatic shades of one color that contrasts the linens (e.g. burnt oranges on the beige, or whites on the blue, deep green and sage on the plum).
For a vintage look, shop at thrift stores for canisters, jars, and pitchers. For modern, go for all glass with the stems showing through in various sizes. For eclectic find old ceramic vases in solid colors or various bowls.
With linens, an accent on top, one color and style of vases, and one color of flowers in different varieties (you can use cheap flowers as the presentation will look superb), you are guaranteed to have something unique while saving money.
From,
Flourgal
