20 Sweetheart Table Ideas for Any Wedding

A sweetheart table is a special table at the wedding reception for just the happy couple, with two seats on the same side, facing out to the guests. The other option is a head table where the couple sits along with the wedding party. 

Sweetheart tables are a great way to carve out intimate one-on-one time for the two of you, even in the midst of the big celebration. Neither option is better than the other — it just depends on what you want! If you’re thinking of going the sweetheart table route, here’s some inspiration to help you design a showstopping piece.

Explore 20 sweetheart table ideas for any type of wedding:

Minimalist sweetheart table ideas

1. Adorn with baby’s breath

Create a chic and thoughtful table by using a silk or satin tablecloth and adorn with cascading baby’s breath. If you want a pop of color, choose a jewel tone tablecloth, or if you want a more classic look, fabric in the cream or peach family is perfect. Add candles for a more romantic feel.

2. Greenery with copper

Pairing shades of green with shades of copper creates a rich feel. Use a table and chairs that are copper or have copper accents and pair with a garland of greenery to complete your minimalist look without sacrificing individuality. 

3. Rose petals with candles 

Add simple elegance to your table by sprinkling rose petals on top and adding candles in tall glass holders. If you want to add more, consider a “Mr. and Mrs.” sign to complete the look.

4. Tufted loveseat 

Instead of two chairs, go with a tufted loveseat for your table. If you want a more classic look, stick with neutral colors or add a hint of glamour with a bold color choice. From linen to velvet, fabric is also a fun way to customize the look.

Glamorous sweetheart table ideas

5. Neon sign

If you’re looking to add a “wow” factor to your table, look no further than neon signs. You can rent an existing one or have a personalized one custom made for you. Either way, neon signs add a really fun and exciting twist.

6. Backdrop

Adding a backdrop instantly makes your table pop. If you have a backdrop at your ceremony, consider repurposing it as your backdrop. Or if you’re creating a backdrop specific to the table, let your creativity shine. Consider hanging rows of garland with alternating rows of twinkle lights vertically, macrame wall hangings, a giant wreath, an industrial Edison bulb light installation. The options are limitless!

7. Glitter and sequins

If you’re a couple who loves the look of glitz and glamour, add some sparkle with sequin and glitter table linens. You can even hang matching fabric above your table for some added pizzazz.

8. White, acrylic and crystal

For a lavish look full of elegance, choose an all-white table complete with acrylic vases filled with white roses and crystal glasses and decor. Add white draped fabric to your table or backdrop and you’ve got the perfect glamorous table.

Rustic sweetheart table ideas

9. Showstopping wood

Go with an uncovered wooden table and add wooden chairs and linens with a more comfortable feel like linen or cotton to add to the rustic, earthy look. 

10. Textured table linens and garlands of greenery

If you opt to go with a covered table, use a textured fabric to incorporate a more homey vibe. Consider finding a vintage tablecloth with a lace or crochet pattern to give an even more Americana look. Finish the look with a simple green garland across the table and you’ve got perfection.

11. Accessorize 

A great way to give a rustic feel to your table is by adding accessories like lanterns, wooden crates, and palettes. Making sure these accessories have a vintage look adds to the earthy feel. 

12. Signage

Whether it’s “Just married” made of brass or your initials made of wood, adding personalized signage to your table using earthy, organic materials will take it to the next level. When choosing the font, be sure it matches other signage at the event as well as the text from your invitations. We think a version of cursive is best for rustic. 

Bohemian sweetheart table ideas

13. Peacock chairs

Opt for two peacock chairs as a way to stand out without needing a bunch of extra florals or decorations. Add an uncovered wooden table and you’ve got a simple-yet-gorgeous option with just a touch of boho vibes.

14. Mixed natural textures

When planning your table, mix textures of the table, chairs, linens, etc. The wedding linked above used Adirondack chairs, leather pillows, pillows with fringe, and bright seasonal flowers. 

15. Non-traditional flowers

From pampas grass to dried flowers to palm fronds, when it comes to choosing florals to decorate your table, think outside of traditional roses. Experiment with different textures and other unique types of florals and greenery to add to the natural and earthy aesthetic of your table.

16. Macrame

Nothing says boho like stunning macrame. Hang a macrame piece from your table, use a frame to create a macrame backdrop, or attach a smaller macrame to the back of each chair. No matter how you use it, you can’t go wrong adding this boho accessory to your table.

Budget-conscious sweetheart table ideas

17. Signage

An affordable way to add a “wow” factor is with signage. Whether it’s a personalized banner with your last name hanging from the table, an illuminated Mr. and Mrs. sign, or “bride” and “groom” wooden pieces to hang from your respective chairs, there are affordable ways to get custom. Not only that, but you can hang these pieces as art in your home after your wedding is over. 

18. Repurpose from your ceremony

Repurpose the decor you used for your ceremony. This can be garland that lined the aisle, floral arrangement at the beginning of chair rows, backdrops, etc. Get creative!

19. Candles

Adding candles to elevate your table may seem like a no-brainer, but to take it up a notch, use candles or candle holders in varying heights. We love the look of tall and thin taper candles placed in various size holders to add to the appeal of your table without increasing the cost. Bonus points for choosing bold colors.

20. String lights

Adding a backdrop from string lights is an easy and cost-effective way to add allure to your table. If there isn’t already a place to hang your lights in your venue, you can rent a simple wooden backdrop or make your own if you’re handy!

Learn more about wedding sweetheart tables with answers to these FAQs:

What goes on a sweetheart table?

Everything that would go on your other reception tables (i.e. plates, linens, glassware, etc.) would also go on your sweetheart table with the addition of any extra decor you’d like so that your table stands out.

How do you make a sweetheart table?

This is your chance to use some of the more lavish rentals you love that may be too expensive for you to put at every table. For instance, if you find velvet tufted chairs that you love, but they’re just too pricey to justify renting 100 of, just rent two and have them be for you and your partner. When designing your table, keep in mind the color palette and vibe of the rest of your wedding, but definitely give yourself the freedom to elevate it for your table. After all, it’s your wedding!

Consider things like seating. Maybe you want to choose a loveseat rather than chairs. Think about linens. Perhaps you add bold pop of color with your table runner. Add special lighting. Bring in fabulous lamps or an array of different sized candles. It’s your time to get creative!

What size should a sweetheart table be?

It depends on the space, but it should be big enough to fit the two of you comfortably. If opting for a round table, a 48-inch table is great. If going rectangular, don’t go longer than 6 feet.

Put these sweetheart table ideas to good use!

Sweetheart tables are a wonderful way to get in more intimate, one-on-one time with your partner without sacrificing time with your loved ones. Not only that, they’re also a great way to splurge on items you may not be able to afford to buy or rent for the entire guest list. In addition, these tables add a really fun “wow” factor to the reception and can serve as the centerpiece for the entire wedding.

Now that you know the ins and outs of sweetheart tables, discover these 20 DIY wedding table decorations for the rest of the reception tables!