Alternatives to Table Number Markers

I love the trend of using themes other than numbers to identify tables.  Not only is it an easy creative outlet that can be relatively cheap to execute, but in my opinion, it gives the seated guests a sense of group identity beyond "the members of table 9" and makes a conversation starter for people who have just met or who have little in common.  


Many magazines, books, and websites have ideas for table names and may have already come up with them, but here are some that I really like.

Sports Teams

Centerpiece picture originally found here with my graphic addition

This is a great way to bring a more masculine aspect to an otherwise overwhelmingly feminine event.  Think about it: a list of your and your spouse-to-be's favorite teams from all sports, as well as family favorites, and local or regional teams for tables that are filled with friends from single locations.  Mix different kinds of sports: football, baseball, soccer, basketball, college, pro, men's and women's.  

Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables

Pomegranates
My fiancée and I are foodies and love going to the farmer's market in Dupont Circle year round.  We considered the idea of our favorite seasonal fruits and vegetables for each table.  Each table could have a few pieces of each on it as part of the centerpiece, making each table look unique.  Since we are getting married in the fall, our list would include:

• Butternut Squash
• Kohlrabies
• Beets
• Pomegranates
• Persimmons
• Sugar Pumpkins

Lost Dharma Stations

My fiancée and I also loved the TV show Lost and considered making each table a "Dharma Station," such as the Pearl, the Hydra, the Orchid, the Swan, etc.  Instead of black, each logo could be printed in the wedding's colors, or black on a colored piece of cardstock.

Quilt Blocks

"Dublin Steps"

Quilts don't have to be country anymore.  They are classic, newly cosmopolitan, and can be mod and hip.  Using traditional quilt blocks, both the graphics with their nicknames, would be a great way to add visual interest to your table beyond flowers, vases, and napkins.