In a room full of love, laughter, and celebration, your sweetheart table is like your private island. It’s the one spot just for the two of you on your wedding day. While it may seem like a simple seating decision, your sweetheart table is more than just a place to eat. It’s a focal point of your reception, a photo backdrop, and a beautiful way to showcase your style as a couple.
Whether you're going for something romantic and elegant, modern and minimal, or bold and whimsical, your sweetheart table is your chance to design something truly personal. Here's everything you need to know to create a sweetheart table you’ll be completely obsessed with!
WHAT IS A SWEETHEART TABLE?
Often, we have couples who are weary against the sweetheart table. They don’t want to be “isolated” and would rather be with their guests. BUT, it’s purpose truly is to create an intimate table just for you and your partner, to sit together, and enjoy a pocket of peace in your reception. It is traditionally placed in a central spot with a direct view of the dance floor and rest of the room. It is different from a head table, which often includes the bridal party, a sweetheart table gives the couple a bit more privacy while still being front and center. It’s not only a great way to enjoy a few quiet moments together, but also an incredible design opportunity.
WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER A SWEETHEART TABLE?
Okay – let us pitch our top reasons why you SHOULD opt for a sweetheart table. We totally understand why couples prefer to sit with their wedding party or families, but here are our top reasons why you need to go the sweetheart table route:
Intimacy: The wedding day is CRAZY busy. It can go by in a flash. The sweetheart table gives you and your partner a few precious moments alone in the middle of a very social, and busy day.
Photography: It is the perfect setup for toasts, first bites, and romantic portraits.
Design Freedom: You’re not trying to coordinate with multiple people’s place settings or floral needs – so you can go all out with your personal style.
Logistics - It can simplify seating arrangements, especially if you have a large or blended bridal party.
WHERE TO PLACE YOUR SWEETHEART TABLE
Placement is key for both function and aesthetics. Your sweetheart table should be:
Visible: to your guests – so they know where to direct their totasts and camera phones!
Centered: or elevated if possible, especially in a ballroom or tented reception
Backdropped: by something photo - friendly – like a floral installation, draping, greenery wall, or even just a beautiful view.
Be sure to make space in front of your table for guests to approach, give hugs, or snap photos without blocking other tables.
ELEMENTS OF AN EYE-CATCHING SWEETHEART TABLE
Designing your sweetheart table is all about the details. Here is the breakdown of the elements that will make yours unforgettable:
The Table Itself
Your table can be as grand or as simple as you like. A few ideas:
Vintage sweetheart tables can have ornate legs or reclaimed wood
Modern acrylic or mirrored tables for a clean, sophisticated look
Rustic farm tables for boho or countryside vibes
Round or half-moon shapes to stand out from the guest tables
Ensure that the scale of the table fits the space and doesn’t overwhelm (or get lost in) your reception layout.
STATEMENT CHAIRS OR LOVE SEATS
Ditch the banquet chairs and opt for something that elevates your seating. We love the idea of velvet armchairs in your wedding color. Or opt for a cozy tufted loveseat or settee. If you're a fan of clean lines, check with your rental company for Gold Chiavari or acrylic ghost chairs to heighten a glam or modern wedding. Your chairs SHOULD be comfortable and also match your wedding theme.
LINENS AND RUNNERS
Luxurious table linens can instantly transform your sweetheart table. Options to consider are:
Sequined overlay for sparkle
Soft velvet for texture
Gauze or chiffon runners for a romantic feel
Custom embroidery (like your initials or wedding date)
For an elevated look, let your linen pool to the floor. This creates a dramatic, romantic effect – perfect for pictures!
FLORAL AND GREENERY DECOR
One of the most important visual elements of your sweetheart table is the floral arrangement. And, this is an opportunity to reuse and repurpose floral arrangements from your wedding ceremony! We love to see a cascading garland of greenery and blooms that flow over the front. Or a floral arch or semi-circle behind the table. You can use low centerpieces, paired with candles for a romantic look. Don’t forget to repurpose ceremony florals such as your archway or aisle flowers to save on cost without compromising style.
LIGHTING
The right lighting adds ambiance and enhances your sweetheart table photos. You can opt to add a spotlight or pin lighting to make your table stand out during the reception. We love the idea of fairy lights, hanging Edison bulbs, or votive candles for a warm glow. Consider a neon sign behind the table with your name, initials, or a fun phrase.
PERSONALIZED TOUCHES
This is your table, so make it yours! Be sure to add your personality with:
Custom name signs or “Mr. & Mrs.” Signage
Champagne flutes with your initials
A framed loved letter or your vows
Photos of your relationships or family mementos
Monogrammed napkins or menus.
If you are planning to write letters to each other before the ceremony, display them in a sealed envelope on the sweetheart table as a symbolic touch.
Whatever you do, make it practical. While beauty is the goal, don’t forget about functionality. Ensure there is space and enough leg room under the table. You want to avoid overly large centerpieces that not only block your view, but your guests' view of you. Have a clear space for your dinner plates, glasses, and silverware, and ensure that your food is plated and STAYS until you’re ready for it to be cleared.
Your sweetheart table is more than just a place to sit—it’s a moment to reflect, connect, and be fully present with your partner on your biggest day. From lush florals to statement chairs and custom signage, there are countless ways to make it feel special.
Whether your wedding is boho and breezy or elegant and glamorous, designing a sweetheart table that reflects your personalities and love story is one more way to make your celebration deeply personal—and absolutely stunning.
So go ahead, create a space you'll be obsessed with. After all, you only get one wedding dinner as newlyweds—make it magical.
Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Tacoma Wedding Planner with over 19 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.