Do I HAVE to have table runners?

Table runners are totally optional You're tables will still look great without them.

Just cause you bought them doesn't mean you have to use them, especially if you don't like them

Your table will look fine without them. Just remember, your tables will be so much more than just a white table cloth (center pieces, dinnerware, napkins, glasses).

Do you have colored napkins that you can rent/buy inexpensively for that pop of color? What about napkin rings?

We do not but we could! Thanks girls!

The last couple weddings I went to had no runners & the tables were beautiful. There's no need for them unless ur a detail oriented bride who loves her runners & would be happy just looking at them. If the sight of them doesn't make u giddy...lose them. Besides, sometimes less is more.

Can you go do mockups at your venue? Then decide? Of course the decision might be no which is fine too.

Or is there a way to use them in a more interesting way? Like not in a cross on the table like normal. But folded to go under your lanterns? Rumpled and crumpled around? Just one on each table but set off some the same way to create a line on each table?

You definitely don't need them. Since you've bought them already, maybe you could use them on accent tables (cake, gift, escort, etc.). Are you having cocktail tables? Runners would be good to tie around the base.

They definitely are not necessary. Save them and use them elsewhere or return them?

D1 and J&B, you are GENIUS!!! I was trying to think of something to "umphh" up the centerpieces! Brilliant!!

Mine looked fine without them, just a centerpiece some candles, table number is all I had, once people get seated it fills up fast!

It'll be fine.

My venue said lost people don't use them anymore

No runners for me.

once you get plates, napkins, favors, centerpieces etc on a table, it will look anything but naked.

I thought about using a placemat underneath the centerpieces. I bought some and when I do my mock-up we'll see.

I also like the idea do using them around the centerpieces instead of the normal runner! You ladies always have such good ideas!

You could always use ribbons if you still want a pop of color. Sorry for some reason it posted sideways.

No need for runners. We could rent ours from our venue (they have a good selection), but I said no, to save money. Then they threw them in for free, so we said ok But I think tables look beautiful without them too.

I've actually never been to a wedding that had them! I'm having them though, because I'm having long tables and I love my runners and the color they help provide as all my linen is black except for the head table.