You’ve probably pictured the scene in your head a million times. The day of your wedding has arrived, and your loved ones flock to the reception to celebrate your marriage. The room is decorated beautifully, and the people are dressed to impress. But there’s one thing you should never neglect—the tables!
Choosing the right wedding table rental company is essential when planning a luxury wedding.
There are many factors to consider, from the style of the tables to the budget. This guide will take you through everything you need to know about wedding table rentals.
We’ll go over:
Table Shapes For Weddings
One of the first things you need to decide is the shape of the tables. This decision will depend on the size and layout of the venue, as well as your personal preference. We’ll go over these details in depth later on, but here’s a quick overview of the different table shapes you can choose from.
Rectangular/Square Tables
The traditional banquet table, rectangular or square, is the most popular choice for weddings. They can seat anywhere from four to 20+ people, making them perfect for large groups. They provide plenty of space for guests to spread out, and they’re easy to set up in various layouts.
“As for the look, they’ll bring a classic and sophisticated feel to your wedding.”
You can mix square and rectangular tables to optimize your seating arrangements. One thing to note about rectangular tables is that people will only have two neighbors so they can feel a little more isolated. Consider round tables instead if you’re looking for a more intimate setting.
Round Wedding Tables
Round tables are another popular option for weddings—for a good reason! They encourage conversation and provide more mingling opportunities than rectangular tables. They also take up less space, so they’re ideal for smaller venues.
“Round tables have a more romantic feel than rectangular tables, making them perfect for couples who want their wedding to exude elegance.”
Regarding the number of guests, you can seat anywhere from four to ten people at a round table. That said, six to eight is generally the sweet spot. Any more than that, and people will start to feel cramped.
The main downside of round tables relates to viewpoints. Since everyone faces each other, it can be difficult for some guests to see the stage or dance floor. If you’re worried about this, you can always mix rectangular and round tables to give everyone a good view.
Half-moon Wedding Tables
If you want the best of both worlds, consider half-moon tables. These rectangular tables have been cut in half to create a semicircle shape. They provide the benefits of both rectangular and round tables—plenty of space and good conversation flow.
Due to the half size, these tables can seat fewer people than rectangular tables (anywhere from two to four), so they work best for smaller weddings.
Bistro Wedding Tables
Also dubbed “cocktail tables,” bistro tables are small, round tables perfect for hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. They’re not meant for dining, so don’t plan on using them for your sit-down dinner.
They stand on pedestals or short legs, and they come in a variety of heights. The most popular choice is 30 inches (76 cm), but you can also find them at 42 inches (107 cm). Many people like to use them outdoors since they have a more casual feel. That said, you can use them indoors as well.
Specialty Wedding Tables
In addition to the standard table shapes, you can choose from a few specialty tables. These are usually much more sturdy and can accommodate more people.
For example, farm tables are known for their old-school charm. They’re usually made from reclaimed wood and have a chunky, rough-hewn look. They are pretty heavy, so make sure your venue can accommodate them.
“From Chestnut to Golden Oak, there are many different wood stains and finishes to choose from.”
Another option is a banquette, a long bench that runs along the wall. It’s perfect for larger groups since it can accommodate more people than a standard table. It only provides a little space for guests to move around, so it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a more mingling atmosphere.
Serpentine Tables
Serpentine tables are a more modern take on the classic banquet table. The idea is to take a bunch of these small, curved tables and put them together to create one long table. The result is a more free, organic shape that looks amazing in photos. The most popular one looks like a snake!
“The cool thing about these tables is that you aren’t restricted to any particular seating arrangement. You can put as many or as few chairs as you want and arrange the tables however you please. Use your imagination and go crazy with it!”
Arranging your tables like this allows the room to flow more freely and enables you to use every inch of space. That said, finding enough identical tables to make this work can be challenging unless you rent them from a company specializing in this type of table.
What Do You Need To Get With Tables?
Tables are neat, but they won’t bring the magic to your wedding alone. You’ll need a few other things to make your tables complete.
Chairs
Unless you plan on having a standing-room-only reception, you will need chairs. The most popular option for wedding receptions is the folding chair. They’re plentiful, easy to transport, and easy to decorate. Chivari chairs are a more upscale option, traditionally made from wood with a padded seat.
“If you want something unique, you can look for specialty chairs, like ghost chairs or benches. These can all be decorated with covers or sashes to match your wedding’s theme and colors.”
When choosing chairs, remember that you’ll need one for each guest, plus a few extras in case some get damaged or dirty. It’s better to have too many than not enough!
Linen
Linens are a must for any wedding table. They add color, texture, and pattern to your tables and can completely transform your reception space’s look. The most popular choice is a tablecloth, which covers the entire table. You can also use runners, which are placed down the center of the table, or overlay cloths, which are placed over a tablecloth for extra color and pizzazz.
As for material, there are countless fabrics to choose from.
“You can read our complete guide on linen fabrics to learn more, but some of the most popular choices for wedding linens are organza, cotton, and satin. Add embroidery or sequins to personalize your linens, or keep it simple with a solid color. The sky’s the limit!”
Remember napkins! They’re usually made from the same fabric as the tablecloth or runner. Creatively fold them to add a fun twist to your tablescape.
Tabletop Decor
“The finishing touches on your tables will make them stand out. Tabletop decor includes things like centerpieces, place cards, and chargers. These small details create a harmonious look, so choose wisely!”
Centerpieces are the most critical part of your tabletop decor. They should be eye-catching and in line with your wedding’s theme. Flowers are always popular, but you can get creative with lanterns, candles, vases, and more.
Place cards to let your guests know where they’re supposed to sit and can also double as favors. Get creative with the design, or keep it simple with a classic Escort Card.
Chargers are placed under each plate; they’re a great way to add color and pattern to your tables. You can find chargers in every color imaginable, so choose something that matches your wedding’s palette. Gold and silver are always popular choices, but be bold and think outside the box!
Table Management And Seating Arrangements
If you’re currently in the planning phase of your wedding, it’s time to start thinking about how you want to arrange your tables. To help you out, we’ve made a checklist of everything you need to consider.
Analyze Your Venue
Before you can start planning your table arrangements, you must analyze your venue. Are you hosting an indoor or outdoor reception? How many guests will be attending? What is the layout of the space? You’re only working with a limited amount of space, so making the most of it is essential.
Decide On Table Shapes
Once you’ve considered your venue, it’s time to start thinking about table shapes. The most popular choices for wedding receptions are round, square, and rectangular tables. Serpentine tables are also growing in popularity, and nothing’s stopping you from mixing table shapes to create a striking look.
Place The Bridal Table
The bridal table is usually the focal point of the reception, so it’s crucial to choose a prime location. If you’re hosting an indoor reception, you can place the bridal table in front of a window or near the dance floor. If you’re hosting an outdoor reception, place it under a gazebo or in front of the ceremony altar.
As for the actual table, most couples choose a forward-facing table so they can see all of their guests.
“A U-shaped table is ideal, as it allows the bride and groom to sit in the middle with their bridal party on either side.”
Seat Your Friends And Family Close
The first step in seating your guests is to place your friends and family at tables near the bridal table. This measure will ensure they feel like VIPs and make things easier for you on the wedding day.
Place Other Guests In Groups
After you’ve seated your friends and family; it’s time to start thinking about other guests. If you have mutual friends, try placing them at the same table. It will allow them to catch up and make things fun for everyone!
Try to group them jointly if you’re inviting co-workers or business associates. They might not know each other very well, but they’ll have something in common to talk about. Kids can also be grouped at a table since they’ll probably have a blast sitting with others their age.
“One controversial topic is whether or not to seat single guests together. On the one hand, it might be nice for them to have potential partners to meet. On the other hand, they might feel like they’re being penalized for being single. Ultimately, the decision is up to you!”
Make A Seating Chart
During your deliberation process, remember to create a seating chart. A seating chart is a map of your reception and will help you track where everyone is supposed to sit. This system will allow you to track who is sitting where and make things easier for your wedding planner.
There are plenty of digital solutions for seating charts, or you can always make your chart with a pen and paper.
Create Signage
Finally, don’t forget to create signage for your tables. This task is usually delegated to the wedding planner, but it’s still something you need to think about. You’ll need to come up with creative table names, and you’ll also need to find a way to display those names.
“The signage should be prominent and visible, so your guests can easily find their seats.”
If you’re looking for a unique way to display your table names, try using pictures or decorations. You can also use Escort Cards, or Place Cards, which are small cards that list the guest’s name and table number. You can place them on a table near the entrance, or they can be handed out to guests as they arrive.
Table Rentals With Curated Events
When it comes to wedding tables, there are many things to consider. But with some planning, you can create a seating arrangement that will make your reception perfect! Renting your tables is the logical solution to save you time and money.
If you’re planning a luxury wedding, you’ll need to find a table rental company that can provide high-end furniture. Curated is the premier provider of luxury event rentals, and we have everything you need to make your dream wedding come true. Our team can help you find the perfect items for your big day, from tables to linens.
Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about our table rental services!