Summarize:

Adding height to some dishes is aesthetically appealing and adds life to your table. You can easily elevate areas by covering secure objects such as boxes and upside down containers with cloth. Just don't exaggerate the elevation, as this not only looks chaotic, but it can be dangerous. You table should have subtle rises and dips. Place all the serving dishes that will be used on the table as you decorate. This will help to ensure that you have enough space for everything that needs to be on the table. Now that your dishes are placed, go ahead and fill in the spaces with the decorations that you've chosen. Be mindful of not placing items in front of food dishes, or in areas where they will get knocked over by elbows. Try placing larger items at the back of the table, and smaller items between dishes and around the edges of the table. Candles are a wonderful decoration for any buffet table. Consider placing tall candles at the back of the table if the table is against the wall, so that they will not get knocked over. Otherwise, you can decorate small jars with candles inside and place them around the table. If having flames seems dangerous for your event, consider using flickering electric candles.
Elevate some of your dishes. Arrange your themed decorations. Set out candles.