i’m matt james

professional event producer

  • 27 years event-planning experience
  • Winner of 30 industry awards
  • Clients include:
  • Elton John,
  • Stella McCartney,
  • Sarah Jessica Parker,
  • Kevin Spacey……and more

welcome

Matt James professional event planner
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CONTENTS

ON THIS PAGE

01 tapestry & vinyl backdrops

Simple, easy, and cost-effective dessert table / party backdrop ideas

Celebrating 70 Years custom photo collage birthday dessert table or party backdrop idea
Personalized 40 & Fabulous green custom tapestry birthday party or dessert table backdrop
Celebrating 40 Years custom photo tapestry dessert table or party backdrop idea showing birthday boy as a baby
The Man, The Myth, The Legend custom tapestry dessert table party backdrop idea
jump to

02 scenic & themed backdrops

Scenic, theatrical, photographic, and themed dessert table / party backdrop ideas

Studio 54 themed dessert table / party backdrop idea
sports stadium interior scenic party backdrop
Surf shop themed dessert table or party backdrop idea
Paris river and Eiffel tower at night scenic party backdrop
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03 decorative party backdrops

Elegant and decorative dessert table / party backdrop ideas to add a little wow factor

pink and white paper flower wall party backdrop idea
colorful paper cone party backdrop at an Indian wedding
black sequin shimmer dessert table party backdrop idea
colorful custom fringe party backdrop at a bridal shower
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04 budget party backdrops

Cheap and budget-friendly dessert table / party backdrop ideas

metallic pink foil fringe curtain dessert table party backdrop with white balloons above
pink, peach and white four leaf paper garland party backdrop idea
Too Late to Die Young spelled out with small letter balloons as a birthday dessert table party backdrop idea
balloon garland dessert table party backdrop idea
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05 fabric party backdrops

Chiffon, tulle, velvet, sequin, and other fabric dessert table / party backdrop ideas

pastel rainbow chiffon tulle fabric party backdrop idea for a kid's birthday party
gold sequin fabric party backdrop idea
royal blue velvet baby shower dessert table party backdrop idea with blue and gold balloons
pink and white fabric strip garland party backdrop idea behind a cake table with 'love is sweet' banner
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06 backdrop stands, frames, & fixings

How to hang your party backdrop with stands, frames, hooks, clips, clamps, and adhesive strips

cheap adjustable metal backdrop stand
backdrop pulled tight to a backdrop stand with string clips
leaf garland swagged around a tabletop party backdrop frame over a wedding dinner table
balloons and a banner hung from a wood party backdrop frame at a kid's birthday party
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ADVICE FROM A PRO

why you need a party backdrop

maximize your decor budget
  • Stretch your decor budget by making your buffet / dessert table the main focal point in the room.
  • Then, concentrate the majority of your party decorations around it.
  • It’s better to invest your budget in one really well-dressed feature wall that eyes will be drawn to.
  • This way, the food & drinks presentation also contributes to the decor, working together to create a larger display and amplifying the overall effect.
  • It will give you far more ‘bang for your buck’ than trying to dress an entire room or venue, which can prove expensive.
  • Decorations often have to compete with existing room decor,
  • so spreading them too thinly around the space will just dilute the overall effect.
  • Instead, start by choosing a dessert table / party backdrop and build out your display from there.
  • A backdrop will go ninety percent of the way to creating a large display, but you can also embellish it further by framing the edges with a balloon garland, paper flower decorations, or faux flower garlands and vines.
  • Alternatively, extend each side of your backdrop with inexpensive foil fringe curtains or bunches of helium balloons, to fill an even larger area.
visual impact
  • A backdrop makes a strong visual impact; it’s what turns a table of treats into a display.
  • Without a backdrop, a dessert table can look a bit sad, lacking, or underwhelming and — in some cases — a little amateurish.
  • We decorate parties to make them feel special, less every day.
  • So, a dessert table needs to be paired with something else that isn’t just part of the regular room decor, otherwise it just feels ordinary.
hide existing room decor
  • Unless you’re hosting in a minimalist designer loft; with exposed brick or clean white walls,
  • a dessert table / party backdrop will help hide existing room decor that might otherwise clash with the creative concept, theme, or color scheme of your event.
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MATT’S TIPs

Matt James professional event planner
in this section

01 tapestry & vinyl party backdrops

tapestry backdrops

  • Tapestries are the easiest and most cost-effective dessert table table / party backdrop.
  • Colors, text, and images can be customized.
  • They’re made from a lightweight fabric so are easy to hang, with or without a stand or frame.
  • They can double as a photo booth backdrop.
  • Creases and wrinkles can be removed by steaming, ironing (at low temp), or with a hair dryer.
the idea

photo tapestry backdrops

Create a focal point and hide existing room decor with a custom dessert table / party backdrop showing photos of the guest of honor through the years

read more
Celebrating 40 Years custom 'Through the Years' photo tapestry dessert table or backdrop with photos of the birthday boy at different ages
the idea

graphic tapestry backdrops

If you don’t have pictures of the guest of honor for a photo backdrop, opt for a customizable graphic backdrop for dessert / buffet tables.

read more
blue with gold sequin custom graphic tapestry dessert table or birthday party backdrop
the idea

tapestry backdrops for men

If you’re struggling to find good dessert table / party backdrop ideas for men, check out some of these designs

read more
Custom name The Man, The Myth, The Legend graphic tapestry dessert table or party backdrop for men

vinyl backdrops

  • Vinyl are thicker, heavier, and more durable than tapestry backdrops.
  • Colors appear more vibrant.
  • Typically more expensive than tapestries.
  • Available with choice of pole pockets, if hanging from a backdrop stand, or grommets, if using hooks to hang from wall.
  • Ship rolled so less likely to incur creases and wrinkles.
  • Better for outdoor events.
the idea

vinyl party backdrops

Vinyl backdrops offer more vibrant colors and a thicker, more durable alternative to polyester tapestries; great for outdoor events.

read more
black and white striped with gold sequins 'Lauren's 50 & Fabulous' custom vinyl dessert table backdrop
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Matt James professional event planner
in this section

02 scenic & themed backdrops

  • Some scenic / themed backdrops are lightweight polyester, others are heavier vinyl.
  • The US based supplier is typically more expensive than the international sellers (who offer free shipping, but can take 3+ weeks).
  • Click ‘Read More’ on each of the preview posts below to see a wider range of designs for both scenic and themed backdrops.
the idea

themed party backdrops

Maximize your budget by concentrating decorations around a themed party backdrop to create an eye-catching feature wall / display

read more
Studio 54 themed dessert table / party backdrop idea
the idea

scenic party backdrops

For themed events, add the illusion of depth to your party decorations with a scenic backdrop

read more
couple standing in front of a scenic party backdrop of a fairy tale castle at night
in this section

03 decorative party backdrops

  • The decorative backdrops below offer a little more wow-factor than vinyl or tapestry backdrops.
  • As such, they are typically more expensive.
  • Some will require more assembly and/or a backdrop stand or frame to support them.
the idea

sequin shimmer backdrops

For a modern and stylish look, sequin shimmer backdrops will add a touch of glamour to your party

read more
black sequin shimmer birthday party backdrop surrounded by a black and gold balloon garland
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follow me on social

Keep up with my latest ideas by following me on social media

Matt James professional event planner
the idea

boxwood hedge backdrops

For a chic and natural look, a lush faux boxwood hedge backdrop lets you bring a touch of the outside in

read more
faux boxwood hedge dessert table party backdrop decorated with flowers
the idea

faux flower backdrops

For an elegant or romantic look, a lush faux flower backdrop makes for a lavish and sophisticated display

read more
rainbow colored 'Mrs & Mrs' faux flower wedding party backdrop
the idea

macrame backdrops

For a delicate, bohemian look, a handmade macrame backdrop is a tasteful and innovative option

read more
macrame backdrop hanging from a wooden frame dressed with flowers in a field
the idea

paper circle garland backdrops

For a soft and delicate dessert table / party backdrop, these ombré paper circle garlands lend a whimsical tough

read more
blue ombré paper circle garland backdrop for a party buffet / dessert table
the idea

flower garland backdrops

A stunning cascade of delicate flower garlands creates a simple yet elegant dessert table / party backdrop

read more
white paper flower garland wedding backdrop in a garden
the idea

origami paper crane backdrops

Add a whimsical touch to your party backdrop with a stunning curtain of paper cranes

read more
origami paper crane garland dessert table backdrop idea
the idea

paper butterfly backdrops

A delicate curtain of paper butterflies creates a spectacular and enchanting dessert table / party backdrop idea

read more
white paper butterfly garland backdrop outside against trees and greenery
the idea

paper cone garland backdrops

Abstract and versatile, paper cone garlands create a striking backdrop for any occasion

read more
pastel pink, turquoise, and red paper cone garland backdrop for an indian wedding
the idea

paper leaf garland backdrops

A cascade of delicate paper leaves lends a rustic charm to a dessert table / party backdrop

read more
paper leaf garland party backdrop hanging against white fabric
the idea

paper flower wall backdrops

For a dramatic and extravagant backdrop, a wall of paper flowers is sure to take your guests’ breath away

read more
pink paper flower wall dessert table / party backdrop with a sofa in front
the idea

paper flower accents

Maximize budget by using fewer paper flowers to embellish printed backdrops, fabric, or plain walls with decorative accents

read more
white paper flowers attached to sheer gold fabric swag curtain backdrop behind a console table
the idea

paper flower name signs

Hang a custom name sign framed with decorative paper flowers on a plain wall to create a unique dessert table / party backdrop

read more
white paper flower and name sign spelling EMMA attached to a gray colored wall
the idea

custom fringe backdrops

For a big and bold statement, these lush custom fringe party backdrops will guarantee and eye-catching display

read more
green, yellow, and white custom fringe party backdrop with marquee letters spelling GOLF in a backyard
in this section

04 budget party backdrops

  • The party backdrop ideas below are typically cheap budget-friendly solutions.
  • As such, some require more time and effort to create and/or assemble yourself.
the idea

four leaf paper garlands

Hang four-leaf tissue paper garlands vertically to create a colorful and inexpensive dessert table / party backdrop

read more
four leaf tissue paper garlands hung vertically to create a bar / dessert table / party backdrop
the idea

fringed streamer backdrops

Hang fringed paper streamers vertically for a simple, cost-effective party backdrop

read more
gold and white fringed streamers hung vertically to make a backdrop with a sofa in front
the idea

streamer backdrops

Hang paper or plastic streamers vertically to create an inexpensive and colorful dessert table / party backdrop

read more
pastel colored streamer backdrop to a party table with balloons above
the idea

foil fringe curtain backdrops

Add a touch of glitz to your event decor by using foil fringe curtains as an inexpensive dessert table / party backdrop

read more
metallic pink foil fringe curtain dessert table party backdrop idea with white balloons above
the idea

layered foil fringe backdrops

Make foil fringe curtains look more special by layering and trimming to create original patterns and shapes

read more
lilac and gold chevron pattern layered foil fringe dessert table / party backdrop idea
the idea

striped foil fringe backdrops

Alternate different colored sections of foil fringe curtains to make more original dessert table . party backdrops

read more
colorful striped foil fringe curtain party backdrop idea
the idea

giant balloon backdrop

A cluster of giant helium-filled balloons is an easy way to create an original dessert table / party backdrop

read more
giant transparent glitter filled helium balloons tied to balloon poles and arranged in a cluster as a dessert table / party backdrop idea
the idea

custom balloon backdrops

Create a unique dessert table / party backdrop with a cluster of helium-filled customized balloons with your choice of text

read more
woman standing next to a custom text and name transparent balloon filled with mini balloons
the idea

balloon garland backdrops

Balloon garlands are an easy way to create an impressive dessert table / party backdrop on a budget

read more
pink, white, and gray balloon garland surrounding a party dessert table
the idea

balloon clouds

A smaller alternative to a typical balloon garland, a ‘cloud’ of balloons combined with a banner can make a budget-friendly dessert table / party backdrop

read more
pink, red, and orange balloon 'cloud' garland and happy birthday banner hung above a party table
the idea

balloon phrase backdrops

Use small letter balloons to spell out witty phrases or well wishes on a plain wall, fabric, or fringe curtain background

read more
Two Sweet spelled out with pink letter balloons as a backdrop to a party dessert table
the idea

letter balloon backdrops

Use giant helium-filled letter and number balloons to create custom word / name / age dessert table or party backdrops

read more
MARY spelled out with giant gold letter balloons as a backdrop to a party food table
the idea

balloon arches

Make your dessert table really stand out by framing it with a balloon arch in lieu of—or in addition to—a traditional printed / fabric backdrop

read more
red and gold balloon arch over a party table
in this section

05 fabric party backdrops

  • With many ready-made options available, fabric party backdrops offer a quick and easy solution
  • Different fabrics allow for different appearances:
  • For a touch of sparkle and glamour, opt for a sequin fabric.
  • For a soft, delicate, or romantic look, choose a chiffon / tulle fabric.
  • Or for a luxurious, elegant, or classic style, choose a lush velvet fabric.
the idea

fabric garland backdrops

An elegant alternative to a traditional fabric backdrop that lends a charmingly handmade look to a dessert table

read more
pink and white fabric strip garland party backdrop behind a cake table with 'love is sweet' banner
the idea

sequin fabric backdrop

Add a touch of sparkle and glamour to your party decor with a sequin fabric dessert table / party backdrop

read more
gold sequin fabric dessert table party backdrop with custom name sign spelling Arden Rose
the idea

chiffon & tulle backdrops

Delicate chiffon or tulle lends and ethereal quality and an understated elegance to any party backdrop display

read more
pink, purple, and white chiffon / tulle fabric party backdrop with balloons and name sign spelling Melanie
the idea

Chiffon & led light backdrops

Give your backdrop an enchanting and magical feel by pairing chiffon fabric with a curtain of LED lights

read more
cream chiffon fabric party backdrop back-lit with yellow LED string lights and dressed with flowers
the idea

velvet backdrops

For a luxurious and opulent feel, a lush velvet fabric lends a refined elegance to a dessert table / party backdrop

read more
royal blue velvet baby shower dessert table party backdrop with blue and gold balloons
in this section

06 backdrop stands, frames, & fixings

  • Different backdrops require different hanging solutions.
  • For a professional look, tapestry, vinyl, and other printed backdrops are best hung from backdrop stands.
  • Delicate or decorative hangings and garlands, such as macrame, vines, flowers, and paper/tissue/balloon garlands, work well when paired with more ornate frames and arches.
  • If you prefer not to invest in any type of stand or frame, there are some budget-friendly options for fixings, rods, and hooks.
  • Click ‘Open Full Post’ to go to my separate page of Party Backdrop Stands, Frames, and Hanging Ideas.
OPEN FULL POST
cheap adjustable metal backdrop stand
backdrop pulled tight to a backdrop stand with string clips
leaf garland swagged around a tabletop party backdrop frame over a wedding dinner table
balloons and a banner hung from a wood party backdrop frame at a kid's birthday party
return to main page

more dessert table ideas

Hit the ‘Read More’ button below to check out my main page of dessert table ideas.

dessert table treats displayed on acrylic cake stands and risers
black and gold striped custom 40th birthday party dessert table backdrop
personalized Polaroid style custom photo cookies of a man 'through the years' for his 90th birthday
gold sequin shimmer party backdrop behind a dessert table
read more

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