b'Escort BoardsGone are the days of the traditional tented escort card to direct guests to their seats, says Watson. Outdoor escort boards are a way to go big and add a dramatic dcor element that will catch guests attention upon arrival, she adds. Last summer Watsons company created an escort board featuring heart-shaped sunglasses with custom wedding tags featuring the guests names and seating assignments. Guests were able to use the sunglasses for cocktail hour and had a fun favor they got to keep, she says.A swoon-worthy escort display can serve double-duty, says Sheils: Once guests have pulled their assignment, the wall can be utilized for a cake or photo booth backdrop!Bridal BlissCleverDisplaysOutdoor event venues with no standard furniture or inventory of tables allow you to be creative with how you display food and drinks, notes Bellwether Events Carnevale. Using vintage bookcases or bar carts can leave more of an impression on your guests than a simple table with linen.Bellwether EventsCATERING, FOODSERVICE & EVENTS cfe-news.com27'