Set the Stage

• The first thing you should do is create different heights on the dessert table. If everything is laid out at the same height, it gives the impression of a bake sale instead of an elegant dessert buffet. There are several different ways to do this. If you have a big enough tablecloth, place items under it to create different heights. Short, round bowls turned upside down work well, along with cake pans. Arrange both round and square or rectangular objects and cover them all with the tablecloth. You will end up with platforms of varying heights and shapes on which you can arrange your desserts.
  
  Another way to create different heights is to put decorative items on top of the tablecloth for use as pedestals. Wrap a box in pretty paper and place it on the table, or purchase a 3-tier cookie tray to add height to the middle of the setting. Wrap bricks in cloth napkins and use them as "legs" to hold a tray of food.
  
  

Choose Your Colors

• The next step is to choose your colors. You want your colors to compliment the food, not overwhelm it. A popular combination for dessert tables is black, white and silver. This is because many desserts have a lot of black and white in them (represented by chocolate and cream). In addition, a black-and-white theme allows items such as cherries or strawberries to really pop out in a stunning way. The silver touches will add elegance, and one or two nice silver platters can display dessert items.
  
  

Add Accessories

• Lay the dessert trays and containers on the table. This will give you an idea of how much room you have left for accessories. Silver taper candle holders lend elegance without taking up too much room. A crystal vase filled with a tight bouquet of flowers is always beautiful. However, do not use flowers that have a strong scent, as this will overwhelm the food. In addition, do not use a too-colorful bouquet of flowers, as this will also distract from the food. Instead, choose a large bouquet of only one or two types of flowers, in one color. Finally, create elegant placecards to label each food item. Use cardstock and a silver pen.