Should You Do A Sweetheart Table?
Are you looking for beautiful sweetheart table ideas for your wedding reception?
Your sweetheart table is one of those little wedding details that can make a big impact on the overall feel of your big day.
Not only is it where you and your new spouse will sit together during the reception, but it can also become a gorgeous focal point in your wedding venue.
Think of your wedding photos.
From romantic flowers and glowing candles to statement backdrops, greenery and personalized wedding signs, there are so many beautiful ways to decorate a wedding sweetheart table.
Whether you are planning an elegant ballroom wedding, a romantic garden theme, a rustic barn wedding or an intimate backyard reception, your bride and groom table can be designed to perfectly match your wedding style.
And the best part is?
You do not need a huge decorating budget to create something beautiful.
Some of the prettiest sweetheart table decor ideas are surprisingly simple.
If you are still deciding how to decorate your reception, we have curated some of our favourite wedding sweetheart table ideas to inspire you.
What Is a Sweetheart Table?
A sweetheart table is a small reception table reserved exclusively for the newly married couple.
Instead of sitting with the entire wedding party at a traditional head table, the bride and groom or newlyweds sit together at their own special table.
It gives you a cozy little space to enjoy dinner together, take in the reception and have a few quiet moments as newlyweds.
I think this is really sweet, hence the name, SWEETHEART table.
Your sweetheart table can also become one of the prettiest areas of your reception.
Since it is smaller than a traditional head table, you can often add more detailed decor without having to decorate an extremely long table.
Think gorgeous flowers, candles, romantic table linens, personalized signs and a beautiful backdrop.
Sweetheart Table vs. Head Table: What Is the Difference?
Not sure whether you should have a sweetheart table or a traditional wedding head table?
A sweetheart table is designed for the newlywed couple only.
A head table typically includes the couple and members of the wedding party.
Depending on your wedding, it may also include the maid of honour, best man or immediate family members.
There is no right or wrong way of doing it.
If you love the idea of sitting with your closest friends during dinner, a head table might be perfect for you.
But if you want a little more privacy and a chance to enjoy a few moments alone with your new spouse, a romantic table for two might be exactly what you need.
Here is a list of our favourite sweetheart tables for your wedding day.
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Why Have a Sweetheart Table at Your Wedding?
Wedding receptions can be incredibly busy.
Between greeting guests, taking photos, listening to speeches, cutting the cake and dancing, it can feel like the entire evening goes by in minutes.
Having your own table gives you a dedicated space to sit together and enjoy your first meal as a married couple.
It can also give you:
- A few quiet moments together during the reception
- More freedom with your reception seating plan
- A beautiful focal point for your wedding decor
- More opportunities for gorgeous reception photos
- A way to make your bride and groom table feel extra special
Now for the fun part!
Here are some beautiful sweetheart table wedding ideas you can use to create a romantic reception space you will love.
1. Romantic Floral Sweetheart Table
You can never go wrong with beautiful wedding flowers.
A lush floral arrangement placed along the front of your sweetheart table can instantly make the space feel romantic and luxurious.
Use flowers that coordinate with your wedding bouquet and reception centrepieces to create a cohesive look.
For an elegant wedding, consider white roses, hydrangeas and soft greenery.
For a colourful theme, use seasonal blooms in shades that complement your wedding colour palette.
You can also place floral arrangements on the floor in front of the table for an extra-lush look.
2. Sweetheart Table With Candles
There is something incredibly romantic about candlelight.
If you want an intimate and elegant reception, decorate your sweetheart table with a mixture of taper candles, pillar candles and small votives.
I used these holders at my tea bridal shower party, and they look so chic!
Using candles at different heights can add dimension and create a warm glow around your table.
For safety, always check your venue’s candle policy.
If open flames are not permitted, realistic flameless LED candles can create a similar look.
This is also a beautiful option for evening weddings, fall weddings and romantic winter receptions.
3. Greenery Sweetheart Table
For a simple and timeless look, decorate your bride and groom’s table with greenery.
Eucalyptus, Italian ruscus and other trailing greenery can be draped across the front of the table or arranged as a table runner.
Add a few white flowers and candles for a romantic garden-inspired look.
You can get this beautiful eucalyptus garland.
It’s the perfect decor for a garden wedding!
Greenery works especially well for rustic, boho, garden and outdoor weddings.
It is also a great option for couples who want beautiful, simple sweetheart table decor without overwhelming amounts of flowers.
4. Sweetheart Table With a Floral Arch
Want your sweetheart table to make a statement?
Place a floral wedding arch behind it.
A wedding arch can beautifully frame the couple and create a gorgeous focal point for the reception.
You can decorate the arch with flowers, greenery, draping or a combination of all three.
Even better, consider repurposing your ceremony arch behind your sweetheart table during the reception.
This can help you get more use out of your wedding decor while creating a beautiful backdrop.
5. Simple and Minimalist Bridal Table
Your sweetheart table does not need to be covered in flowers to look beautiful.
Sometimes, less really is more.
A simple table with neutral linens, a small floral arrangement and a few candles can feel incredibly elegant.
Choose one or two statement elements rather than filling every available space.
This simple wedding sweetheart table is perfect for modern, minimalist, and intimate weddings.
6. Rustic Wooden Bride and Groom Table
Planning a rustic wedding?
A natural wooden table can be beautiful without needing a tablecloth.
Decorate it with greenery, wildflowers, candles and a personalized wooden sign.
This look works beautifully for barn weddings, country weddings, outdoor celebrations and rustic fall weddings.
Complete the setup with wooden chairs or a cozy loveseat.
7. Groom & Bride Table With a Romantic Backdrop
A beautiful sweetheart table backdrop can completely transform your reception space.
Some popular backdrop ideas include:
- Flowing fabric draping
- A flower wall
- A green wall
- Romantic Lace Fabric
- A wooden arch
- A neon wedding sign
- Hanging flowers
- Twinkle lights
- A personalized wedding sign
Your backdrop does not need to be enormous.
Even a simple curtain of soft fabric, paired with warm lights, can make your table stand out.
8. Table With a Neon Sign
Neon wedding signs remain a fun way to personalize wedding reception decor.
Hang a sign featuring your last name, initials, wedding date or a romantic phrase behind your table.
Pair it with flowers, greenery or soft draping to create a beautiful photo-worthy backdrop.
After the wedding, you may even be able to use the sign as decor in your home.
9. Elegant White Bridal Table
An all-white sweetheart table is classic, romantic and timeless.
Use white linens, white flowers and clear or gold candle holders to create an elegant monochromatic look.
Different textures can keep the design interesting.
Try combining soft fabric, fresh or artificial flowers, glass candle holders and delicate tableware.
This is a beautiful option for a classic wedding, a luxury celebration, or an elegant ballroom reception.
10. Gold and Glam Sweetheart Table
If you love glamorous wedding decor, add touches of gold to your sweetheart table.
Gold chairs, candle holders, charger plates and table accents can instantly make the space feel more luxurious.
Pair gold with white flowers for a timeless look, or add blush, burgundy or black for something more dramatic.
The key is to use metallic details strategically so the design feels elegant rather than overwhelming.
11. Boho Bridal Table
For a relaxed and romantic bohemian wedding, use natural textures and earthy details.
Consider pampas grass, dried flowers, macramé, wooden furniture and warm-toned candles.
These cute centrepieces will look beautiful at any bohemian-themed wedding!
Or consider a low floral arrangement or a floor installation; both can create a beautiful boho-inspired look.
This style is especially pretty for outdoor weddings, desert weddings and intimate events.
12. Garden-Inspired Sweetheart Table
Bring the romance of a garden directly into your wedding reception.
Use overflowing flowers, trailing greenery and soft candlelight to create a dreamy garden-inspired table.
A floral arch or greenery backdrop can complete the look.
For spring and summer weddings, consider soft pink, peach, lavender, yellow or blue flowers for a fresh and colourful design.
I recommend AFloral for your artificial flowers, among other places.
13. Bridal Table With a Loveseat
Who says you need two separate chairs?
A loveseat can make your sweetheart table feel extra cozy.
It can also add another decorative element to your reception.
Choose a vintage sofa for a romantic wedding, a velvet loveseat for a glamorous event or a simple neutral settee for a modern wedding.
Just make sure the height works comfortably with your table.
14. Sweetheart Table With Draped Fabric
Soft fabric can instantly add romance to a wedding table.
Use chiffon, cheesecloth, tulle or another lightweight fabric to create a flowing table runner or draped table front.
This look works beautifully with candles and flowers.
Popular colours include white, champagne, blush pink, terracotta, dusty rose, and sage green.
15. Sweetheart Table With a “Mr. & Mrs.” Sign
Personalized signs are an easy way to make your table feel special.
A “Mr. & Mrs.” sign can be displayed on the front of the table, placed on the floor or incorporated into the backdrop.
You can choose acrylic, wood, metal or fabric depending on your wedding style.
For a more personalized option, use your new last name or initials.
16. Colourful Sweetheart Table
Your wedding table does not have to be neutral.
If you love colour, embrace it!
Use colourful flowers, candles, linens and decor that coordinate with your wedding palette.
A colourful sweetheart table can be especially beautiful for spring and summer weddings, as well as modern celebrations.
Try combinations such as:
- Pink and orange
- Lavender and yellow
- Blue and white
- Burgundy and blush
- Sage green and dusty rose
- Plum and merlot
- Peach and pink
17. Bridal Table With Floor Flowers
One beautiful way to decorate a sweetheart table is to place the flowers on the floor rather than directly on the tabletop.
Let’s be honest, most sweetheart tables are decorated this way.
You get so much more space on your table for all the table placements.
Floral arrangements can be positioned along the front of the table to create the appearance of flowers growing around you.
This works especially well with a simple table because the floral installation becomes the main focal point.
It is romantic, modern and incredibly beautiful in wedding photos.
18. Outdoor Sweetheart Table
If you are having an outdoor wedding, take advantage of the natural scenery around you.
Position your sweetheart table in front of a beautiful garden, vineyard, mountain view or other scenic backdrop.
You may need very little additional decor.
A wooden table, flowers and candles can be enough to create a stunning setting.
Just remember to consider wind when choosing candles, table linens and lightweight decorations.
19. Sweetheart Table With Twinkle Lights
Twinkle lights can make a wedding reception feel warm and magical.
Hang them behind your table, incorporate them into your backdrop or use them with soft draping.
This is an affordable way to make a simple reception space feel more romantic.
It is especially pretty for evening weddings, backyard weddings and indoor venues that need a little extra warmth.
20. Vintage-Inspired Bride and Groom Table
If you love vintage wedding decor, look for unique furniture and decorative pieces with character.
Vintage wedding themes are honestly the best.
Antique chairs, vintage candle holders, lace linens and mismatched details can create a romantic old-world feel.
These brass candle holders are the perfect touch for any table setting.
You can also incorporate family heirlooms or meaningful decorative pieces to make the table more personal.
21. Modern Bridal Table For The Groom and Bride
I love the look of modern weddings.
If you are having one, I suggest you keep the design clean and intentional.
Consider having an acrylic sweetheart table, contemporary chairs, sculptural flowers and elegant candle holders.
A minimalist backdrop or modern wedding sign can complete the look.
Neutral colours work beautifully, but a bold monochromatic palette can also make a statement.
22. Budget-Friendly DIY Sweetheart Table
You do not need to spend thousands of dollars to create a beautiful bride and groom table.
Start with a simple table and focus on a few high-impact details.
You could use:
- Artificial flower garlands
- Flameless candles
- Affordable chiffon table runners
- A DIY wedding sign
- Repurposed ceremony flowers
- Thrifted candle holders
- Greenery from your other reception decor
One of the best ways to save money is to repurpose decor from your ceremony.
Ask your wedding coordinator or a trusted friend to move your ceremony flowers, aisle arrangements or wedding arch to the reception space after the ceremony.
23. Romantic Pink Sweetheart Table
For a feminine and romantic wedding, consider a pink sweetheart table.
You can use blush-pink linens, pink roses, candles, and touches of gold.
This blush table skirt is perfect for wedding receptions.
It adds a lovely touch to any sweetheart table decor.
For something bolder, mix different shades of pink with red, peach or burgundy flowers.
Pink wedding decor works beautifully for spring, summer and romantic garden weddings.
24. Moody Sweetheart Table
If soft and airy is not your style, embrace a darker and moodier look.
Deep burgundy, plum, black, emerald green and merlot can create a dramatic reception table.
Just check out these stunning plum and merlot wedding ideas.
Add dark taper candles, rich florals and gold accents for an elegant finish.
This is an especially beautiful choice for fall and winter weddings.
I bet this sweetheart table idea would also work for Halloween weddings.
25. Personalized Sweetheart Table
The most beautiful wedding decor should feel like you.
Add personal details that tell your story as a couple.
This could include:
- Your initials
- Your new last name
- A meaningful quote
- Family photos
- A custom wedding sign
- Flowers with personal significance
- Decor inspired by your culture or heritage
Even one meaningful detail can make your sweetheart table feel completely unique.
How Much Does Sweetheart Table Decor Cost?
The cost of decorating a sweetheart table can vary significantly depending on the flowers, furniture and backdrop you choose.
A simple DIY setup using candles, artificial greenery and affordable linens can be relatively budget-friendly.
A large custom floral installation or elaborate flower wall will naturally cost more.
If you are working with a limited wedding budget, focus your money on one statement feature.
For example, you might choose a beautiful floral arrangement and keep the rest of the table simple.
You can also save money by repurposing your ceremony flowers and wedding arch.
What Should You Put on a Sweetheart Table?
You do not need to fill your table with decor.
Remember that you will still need room for your dinner plates, drinks and personal items.
Some popular items to include are:
- A small floral arrangement
- Greenery
- Candles
- A table runner
- Personalized signs
- Special glassware
- Wedding chair signs
Keep the tabletop functional while adding larger decorative elements to the front of the table, floor or backdrop.
Should You Have a Sweetheart Table?
If you love the idea of having a little space to yourselves during your wedding reception, then absolutely!
A sweetheart table gives you and your spouse a chance to sit together, enjoy dinner and take in everything happening around you.
It can also become one of the most beautiful focal points of your wedding reception.
Whether you choose a simple table with candles and greenery or an elaborate floral setup with a statement backdrop, make it feel like you.
After all, this is your first dinner together as a married couple.
And in my books, that deserves a beautiful table.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wedding Sweetheart Tables
What is a sweetheart table at a wedding?
A sweetheart table is a small reception table reserved for the newlywed couple.
It allows the couple to sit together during dinner rather than sitting at a larger head table with the wedding party.
What is the difference between a sweetheart table and a head table?
A sweetheart table typically seats only the newlyweds, while a head table usually includes the couple and members of the wedding party.
How do you decorate a sweetheart table?
Popular sweetheart table decorations include flowers, greenery, candles, table runners, personalized signs, statement chairs and a decorative backdrop.
Do you need a backdrop behind a sweetheart table?
No.
A backdrop is optional, but it can help make the sweetheart table a focal point of the reception.
Flowers, greenery, fabric draping, twinkle lights and personalized signs are all popular options.
Can you have a simple sweetheart table?
Absolutely.
As you have seen from the examples in the post, a simple sweetheart table with beautiful linens, a few candles and a small floral arrangement can look just as elegant as an elaborate setup.
How can I decorate a sweetheart table on a budget?
Repurpose ceremony flowers, use artificial greenery, choose flameless candles, thrift candle holders and focus on one statement element instead of decorating every part of the table.
Most of the wedding decorations here can be found on Amazon, Etsy, and even Facebook Marketplace.
What size should a sweetheart table be?
The ideal size depends on your venue and table style, but the table should comfortably seat two people while leaving enough room for place settings, drinks and a small amount of decor.
====>>> Read this for a guide on how to choose between a sweetheart table vs a head table!
We hope you loved our Bride and Groom table ideas for your wedding.
Your wedding sweetheart table is more than just a place to sit.
It is your little corner of the reception!
It’s a place where you will enjoy your first meal together as newlyweds, watch your guests celebrate your love, and take in one of the biggest days of your lives.
Whether you love romantic flowers, glowing candles, lush greenery, modern decor or simple DIY wedding ideas, there are so many ways to create a sweetheart table wedding setup that feels special.
Which of these wedding sweetheart table ideas would you choose for your big day?
Save your favourite ideas for later, then start planning a beautiful bride-and-groom table that perfectly matches your wedding style.
If you loved this, you will love these posts:
- How to get wedding decorations on a budget
- Outdoor wedding decorations from Pinterest
- Plum and Merlot Wedding Ideas
- Elegant rustic wedding decoration ideas
- Cyber Monday Wedding Deals
- Fall wedding ideas on a budget
- Winter wedding ideas on a budget
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