Once you have the basics in place for your reception - tables, chairs etc, it is time to turn your attention to the details.  I have already discussed table cloths and linens in the reception shopping list and other items such as charger plates, so this is about all those other little details that will transform your reception room from bland and boring, into fabulous and wow!

Centerpieces - These are the decorative arrangements that will sit in the center of your tables.  Traditionally floral arrangements, these days anything goes and creative brides are coming up with ever more unusual versions for their reception tables.

You will need centerpieces for each of your guests tables, arrangements for the top table, in which you might want to include your bouquet in front of yourself and your groom and arrangements for additional tables such as the wedding cake and guestbook/gift tables, although many brides will use their bridesmaids bouquets for these tables.

Seating Plan - Essentially a map telling your guests where they are seated.  It is usual for the seating plan to be presented on a large board displayed at the entrance to the reception room.  You can make one yourself or have one custom made for you in your wedding colors and to match your wedding stationery.

Lighting - Lighting can be vitally important for your reception as it will help to set the tone and atmosphere.  Your venue may already have a good lighting system in place allowing you to adjust the lighting in certain areas as you want.  Alternatively you may have to introduce additional ceiling lights or change the shades on the existing one (get permission first!) and add in some table or floor lights too. 

Take some time to think carefully about your lighting, if possible visit the venue at different times of the day so you can see how the natural light plays out over the course of the afternoon and into the evening, this will help you come up with a lighting scheme that will keep the atmosphere at a constant.  Adding some candles to your tables or into your centerpieces will also help the ambience, but ask the venue first if you can light them.

Place Cards - Such an important addition to your tables is often overlooked by brides.  Your place cards will provide the final finishing touch to your place settings so take some time to consider how to best present them.  In their simplest form they are handwritten tent cards, but you can also purchase small frames or holders to set them off to perfection.

Wedding Favors - These are the little gifts you give to your guests as a token of appreciation for joining you on your wedding day.  Never overlook wedding favors, many guests will expect them!  Coordinate them with your wedding style or theme, including the packaging.  You can double them up as place card holders or make the place card holders the wedding favor! 

Additional Decorations - These can include floral arrangements, which you may have brought over from the ceremony site, banners, garlands, paper lanterns, ornaments.  Whatever your style or theme make sure you add to the whole scheme with some additional decorations to complete the look.  Check out hire companies which specialize in props or interiors for some interesting items.

Extras - This includes your guestbook, post box for cards, cake stand and servers.