Birthdays, anniversaries, and other events are joyous occasions that bring people together to celebrate a milestone or honour someone special. However, party planning has become more elaborate and creative over the years. The concept of having just a cake as the centrepiece has transformed into having a stunning dessert table designed to be the focal point of the celebration.
By carefully curating a selection of desserts and incorporating thoughtful decorations, the dessert table is sure to draw the guests' attention and make the party stand out. When designing and decorating a dessert table, several thoughts and considerations come into play. Here are a few steps to help create a stunning dessert table:
1. Choose a Theme
Commence the process of decorating the dessert table by choosing a theme or concept that seamlessly ties into the birthday celebration. Whether it's a princess-themed party, a tropical luau, or a sophisticated formal-attire affair, the decorations on the dessert table should reflect the chosen theme. Moreover, if there is no specific theme then there should be a colour scheme to ensure an overall cohesive look.
2. Pick a Colour Scheme
Narrow your choice down to a maximum of 3 to 5 colours and stick with it. while finalising the colour scheme, ensure there is colour coordination between all the elements on the table including the dessert items. By harmonising the colours of the desserts and decorations, you can create a cohesive and visually pleasing display. The choice of tablecloths, banners, balloons, flowers, and other decorative elements should all contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal, amplifying the theme and creating an inviting ambience. Fashioning a personal mood board helps picture the entire event better and also works as a reference point when assembling the dessert table.
3. Finalise the Guest Count
Determining the guest count and serving quantities are the next crucial steps to planning a successful party. Start by estimating the number of guests expected at the event, keeping in mind the occasion and its duration. With a guest count in mind, it is easier to estimate the number and type of desserts required. Choose from cookies, cupcakes, macarons, pastries, and fruit tarts to place on the display table. The centre of attraction will be the cake of the occasion, whether it is a birthday cake or one for a milestone achievement. Assume that each guest will enjoy two to three desserts, to help with the dessert count. This count can be adjusted based on the other food options at the event as well.
4. Include Important Dietary Preferences
Additionally, if you are mindful of dietary restrictions and preferences that you or your guests may have, several options such as gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan desserts are available. Labelling the desserts with clear signs indicating allergen information is also helpful.
5. Add Depth and Dimension
Depending on the event and personal choice, the desserts can be arranged in a buffet style or as pre-portioned servings. While offering a variety and different colours are visually appealing, introducing height variations can add to the presentation. Use cake stands, tiered trays, or decorative props to add dimension and showcase and access the treats more effectively. Even the cake stands and trays that are being used should be selected according to the colour scheme. But make certain that the colours of the vessels or props being used are limited to a maximum of two colours to not disrupt the overall look and theme. The safer option is to go all white or only glass dishes for display and let the colours of the desserts pop.
All these preparations take up time as they involve careful consideration of various elements as well as the layout. Write down an element list of all the items required and consider drawing a layout of the table beforehand. This approach will help make the process easier. Set up the cake stand, trays, and vessels in advance to save time and visualise the outcome of the dessert table, ensuring a smoother and more efficient setup. Pay close attention to all the details and create a captivating dessert table that can become the centre of attention at any party - from your bachelorette to your engagement and even for a baby shower.
