A year or so ago I witnessed a beautiful outdoor wedding with a fantastic view of the countryside. The bride and groom were clever (or maybe their caterer was) but they timed the courses of the wedding dinner to correspond with the sunset. The theme was Italian countryside where all the guests ate family (or in Italian Paesano) style. One way that they bride pulled in the theme of the Italian countryside was to use earthy tones in her colors. Using these tones gave the whole place a feeling of warmth and love and quite frankly when the candles were lit on the tables, the colors glowed with a Tuscan tone that had to be seen to be believed.
The table centerpieces were wonderful rough stoneware bowls and pitchers of a Tuscan hue filled with the same type of flowers that the bride carried. Some bowls were laiden with groupings of grapes, further cementing her love of Tuscan decor. The effect was lovely especially combined with earthy tone candles on each table, lit and filling the area with warmth. The bride placed her flowing bouquet on the brides table where it could be seen and appreciated by all who viewed them as well.
Another interesting thing the bride did to add to the theme and also to have some “gifts” for those who sat at the tables was to group small earthy tone candles on mirrors at both ends of the centerpiece on rectangular tables and in the midst of loose flowers decorating the round tables. Notes on small cards were placed by the candles inviting guests to please take one as a remembrance when they left the reception.
At a table set off to the side she also placed matches in small containers with a votive candle matching her colors in a small net bag tied in raffia. She attached a note that said, “Thank you for brightening our day with your presence, please remember us when you use this candle. May your life be wonderful and filled with joy!” Love Kari and Michael.
Also on a table, grouped in a wonderful heavy wicker basket were small terra cotta pots of Basil, Rosemary or Thyme. Each of these herbs has a symbolism which was attached to the small pot with a tiny tag tied in raffia. They are as follows: Rosemary which symbolizes Remembrance/Memory. Basil which symbolizes love and Thyme symbolizes courage. All three are fantastic herbs to offer, easy to start from seed OR better yet, inexpensive to purchase.
With a little bit of time, patience, love and planning ahead, this wedding favor will make an impression on the recipient months down the line. With each fragrant herb snipped for dished prepared, the user will remember your special day and smile. In my opinion, this idea far surpasses any of the traditional, “mints tied up in net bags” that we see far too often on reception tables.
