Image by Ashily Kim Photography.
When planning your wedding, it’s easy to wander off in all of the fun details. It might be tempting to dive into dress shopping or fine-tuning your floral arrangements straight away. Nonetheless, it’s essential to not overlook the must-haves, akin to reception table ideas and chairs. While these may not be probably the most exciting details to sort out, they significantly impact your design and the general ambiance of your wedding.
Choosing tables may appear straightforward, but each unique style comes with its own benefits and downsides—which is why we’re putting them all on the table. Whether you’re considering long banquet-style tables or serpentine setups, it’s essential to research your options to search out the right setting in your wedding style and guest count. We’re here to allow you to make the proper alternative in your one-of-a-kind day.
Round Tables
Circular tables are a well-liked alternative, and it’s no surprise why. They’re classic and make a timeless addition to only about any wedding reception space. Not only do they make for a surprising decor element, but additionally they promote conversation. Round tables make it easy for guests to talk with those at their table. Plus– as a crowd favorite–rentals for each tables and linens are easy to seek out.
While they’re an attractive alternative, they’re not fit for each wedding style and venue. Round tables typically sit between 6-10 people per table. If you have got a big guest list, this may not be best for you. For instance, if you happen to’re having 200 guests with round tables that seat 10, you would want 20 reception tables. That’s not only expensive but additionally difficult to suit into some spaces.

Image by Adrian Steinbach.
Square Tables
In case you’re on the lookout for ways so as to add a novel flair to your reception, square tables is perhaps for you. While they aren’t some of the popular decisions, they sure are a surprising one. They create a comfy atmosphere, have ample room for lush centerpieces, and may easily be configured to optimize your reception space.
Depending on the dimensions of your tables, each can fit 4-8 guests comfortably. Perfect for smaller events, this selection gives your wedding a more intimate feel—your guests are capable of mingle more with others at their table. While it is a perk, bear in mind there are some downfalls of selecting this table style.
Because they’re quickly gaining popularity, it’s might be difficult to search out rentals for each square tables and linens. Plus, square tables have quite a lot of empty, unusable space (corners) that’ll take up room in your venue. So, if you happen to’re working with a small reception space and a big guestlist, square tables wouldn’t be your first alternative.

Image by Franzi Annika. See more of this real wedding here.
Wedding Reception Table Ideas: Rectangle Tables
One other classic option is rectangular tables. That is a well-liked alternative that might be incorporated into any wedding whatever the style or theme. They are perfect for celebrations with a big guest list, family or buffet-style catering, or for those envisioning long garland centerpieces. Reception tables are also a simple solution to add symmetry to your decor.
Though this table shape offers ample elbow room for each guests and decor, it also restricts conversation. Having guests unfolded during meals limits them to only chatting with those in close proximity to them. Keep this in mind when determining your seating arrangements.

Image by Memorybox Photography.
Long Banquet Tables
Perhaps the considered separating your wedding guests into groups and making a seating chart is overwhelming. Perhaps you’re just dreaming of all of your favorite people being seated together at one table. Whichever it could be, an extended banquet table is the answer for smaller celebrations. This is particularly true for those hosting an outdoor celebration with unlimited space.
Long banquet-style tables are an exaggerated version of traditional rectangle setups. Picture one long table stretching the length of your reception space along with your table settings and centerpieces perfectly aligned. But bear in mind that these aren’t all the time probably the most functional of options. If you have got one long table in the course of your reception space, it might probably be difficult for guests to maneuver around. They’ll must walk around the whole table to achieve the lavatory, the reception bar, and even the dance floor.

Image by Alex Mabrey.
Serpentine Tables
You wish something different. Your goal in your wedding day is to make an announcement, and your reception tables can allow you to do exactly that. As a substitute of sticking with the classic circle or rectangle tables, go for serpentine tables. By piecing together curved tables, you possibly can create an extended, winding banquet-style setup.
It’s no surprise that this isn’t the simplest table choice to execute. But with the proper vendors by your side and an entire lot of preparation, it’ll repay ultimately.

Image by Erin Marie Photos. Planning by Ember and Stone Events.
King’s Table
In case you’re wanting to feel like true royalty in your big day, consider incorporating a king’s table into your reception space. That is one small rectangular table that seats the couple, their parents, and typically essential wedding party members. The catch is that every one members are lined up on the identical side of the table.
Sure, that is a sublime–and, for some– less isolating version of a sweetheart table. But it surely’s not a really intimate option. With all guests sitting on the identical side, it limits the quantity of conversations that might be had with those sitting at a king’s table.

Image by Courtney Marie Photography. See more of this real wedding here.
Sweetheart Table
We’re continually reminding couples to schedule alone time on their wedding day timeline. That is the right solution to do exactly that. A sweetheart table is a smaller, often more elaborate dining setup designed for the bride and groom to enjoy some quiet time during dinner. It allows them to savor those precious moments together before hitting the dance floor and celebrating surrounded by family members.

Image by Ashily Kim Photography.
Suggestions For Deciding What’s Best For Your Big Day
In case you thought that your table decisions wouldn’t have much of an effect in your wedding, re-evaluate. The dimensions and shape of your tables play a big role in each the design and overall feel of your big day. Before you agree on one option, listed here are a number of things to bear in mind:
- Keep your venue size and variety of guests in mind when deciding on a table shape
- Be mindful of the marriage style and vibe you’re attempting to create—is it cozy and intimate or large and splendid?
- Select tables that may comfortably fit your required centerpieces.
- Revisit your budget before picking your tables. Certain styles and sizes is perhaps dearer than others. You’ll wish to do just a little research on rentals and linen prices before deciding.
- You possibly can mix and match different table styles and sizes.
Once you have got your reception tables and chairs sorted, the true fun begins. It’s officially time to start out dressing your tables. We’re talking about centerpieces, table settings, table numbers, etc.
There are quite a lot of details to maintain track of, and we’re just getting began. How are you expected to maintain track of all of it? You’re not! That’s why we put together a handy wedding reception table checklist to make sure no detail gets neglected.

Image by Claudia Takes Photos.














