Beautiful Wedding Reception Tables That Don't Have Linens

Find out more about this latest wedding trend to go bare.

Since you're technically losing an element of your décor when you don't have a tablecloth, it's important to keep centerpieces interesting and have fun with the place settings. Don't be afraid of using various colors, patterns, or textures!

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Photo: Samuel Lippke Studios

When it comes to dressing your wedding reception tables, the first step is often to choose the linens. While tablecloths do set the foundation for a tablescape, they're not a necessity when it comes to your décor. In fact, many couples are embracing the trend of keeping their tables bare of linens. If you don't want to get rid of them altogether, we recommend keeping the head or sweetheart table tablecloth-free and dressing your guest tables in luxurious materials that will add an element of beauty and dimension to the overall space.

If you are comfortable going the non-linen route, it's important to select a beautiful table – after all, you won't have a tablecloth to hide any unsightly details. There are many options that need not be covered. Wood tables are popular at rustic weddings, and we've seen white or black lacquer tables at contemporary celebrations as well as glass or mirrored varieties at opulent fêtes. Since you're technically losing an element of your décor when you don't have a tablecloth, it's important to keep centerpieces interesting and have fun with the place settings. Don't be afraid of using various colors, patterns, or textures! 

Be inspired by the photos below – all from real weddings – that showcase beautiful reception tablescapes with no linens. Let us know if you'll be following this new trend in the comments!

Wood wedding reception table outdoor wedding with pretty drapery linens not on tables

Photo by Bryan N. Miller Photography; From Real Wedding: Dreamy Alfresco Wedding with Textured Florals and Lavender Accents

Light wood wedding reception table ideas no linens

Photo by Branco Prata; Planning & Design by Evoke Design & Creative; From Real Wedding: Chic Destination Wedding with California Style in Washington, DC

Wood wedding reception table rustic wedding ideas no linens greenery centerpieces

Photo by Christine Bentley Photography; From Real Wedding: A Rustic-Elegant Barn Wedding in Santa Barbara, California

Bare wood table with lace runner place setting with baguette no linens wedding ideas

Photo by Katie Shuler Photography; Planning & Design by Tessa Lyn Events; From Real Wedding: Rustic-Chic Outdoor Wedding at a Winery in Northern California

Wood wedding reception table rustic wedding ideas no linens

Photo by Vue Photography; From Real Wedding: Romantic, Rustic-Chic Wedding at a Whiskey Distillery in Atlanta

Long wedding reception table with no linens mirror mercury glass style tall candles

Photo by Kate Osborne Photography; From Real Wedding: Stylish Destination Wedding with Gorgeous Blooms in Sundance, Utah

Place setting at wedding reception table with mirror top reception ideas

Photo by Annette Navarro; From Real Wedding: Romantic Garden Wedding with White & Green Motif in Cincinnati

Mirror wedding reception table no linen tablecloth flower centerpieces

Photo by Simone Photography; Planning & Design by International Event Company; From Real Wedding: Gorgeous Rooftop Wedding Ceremony & Reception in West Hollywood

Mirror long wedding table no linens wedding reception anniversary party ideas

Photo by Jessica Claire Photography; From Real Wedding: 50th Anniversary Party with Fall Foliage and Unique Performances

Wedding reception table with no linen on top glass with flowers underneath

Photo by Milanès Photography; From Real Wedding: Glamorous White & Gold Wedding at a Private Estate in Georgia

Wedding reception table marble no linens fall inspired centerpieces

Photo by Aesthetiica Photography; From Real Wedding: Modern Fall Wedding with Courtyard Ceremony + Rooftop Reception

Black lacquer and gold wedding reception table outdoor terrace malibu reception

Photo by Brian Leahy Photography; Rentals by Luxe Linen; From Real Wedding: Two Music Managers Marry at Malibu Estate with Stunning Views

White lacquer serpentine reception table with no linens pink flowers

Photo by Jessica Claire Photography; From Real Wedding: Traditional Armenian Ceremony + Luxurious Ballroom Reception

For more wedding ideas and inspiration, find out how to add romance to your event with drapery, learn the benefits of having low centerpieces, and read your guide to a tented wedding.