Junior Rasmussen
Planning a wedding reception involves a lot of logistical decisions, and one of the most important is the tables. The number and type of tables you'll need will depend on the size and scope of your event, and the number of guests attending. You'll need tables for dining, but also for other purposes like displaying gifts and cards, and for catering.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Table Types | Guest tables, head table, bistro tables, bar tables, cake tables, food tables, gift tables, guest book tables, party favor tables, reserved tables, sweetheart tables, memory/photo tables, kids' activity tables |
| Table Shapes | Circular, rectangular, banquet-style |
| Table Sizes | 36” Round, 48” Round, 60” Round, 72” Round, 6’ Banquet, 8’ Banquet, 30” or 32” Cocktail tables |
| Table Seating | 4 people (36” Round), 6-8 people (48” Round, 6’ Banquet), 8-10 people (60” Round, 8’ Banquet), 10-12 people (72” Round) |
| Table Decor | Napkins, plates, cutlery, centrepieces, accent decor, chair styles, table runners, garlands, menu cards, placemats, napkin rings, chargers, candles |
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What You'll Learn
Guest tables
When deciding on the number of guest tables, you should also consider the size of the tables and how many people can sit at each table. Round tables typically come in four sizes: 36” round tables seat 4 people, 48” seat 6-8 people, 60” seat 8-10 people, and 72” round tables seat 10-12 people. Banquet-style tables are another option, with 6' tables seating 6-8 people and 8' tables seating 8-10. If you're planning a more intimate micro wedding, a longer 4'x8' table pushed together can be a great option to bring everyone together.
The shape of the tables is also an important consideration. Round tables are versatile and can be used in almost any reception style, from an outdoor party to a country club setting. Rectangular tables can also be used to create a banquet-style arrangement, with long, continuous tables for a more intimate feel. You can even mix and match, combining circular and rectangular tables to create the perfect setup for your unique wedding style and guest count.
In addition to the number and type of tables, you'll also need to determine where the guest tables will be placed within the reception space. This will depend on the layout of the room and the overall flow of the event. It's important to ensure that guest tables are easily accessible and not too cramped, providing a comfortable dining experience for your guests.
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Food and drink tables
Food and drink are an important part of a wedding reception. The table setup will likely be the first thing on your list of priorities. You will need tables that can seat all your guests, as well as tables to house the food and drinks.
Food Tables
Depending on the size and scope of your event, you may need several food tables. If you're setting up the food tables yourself, you will need something to keep the drinks cold, beer and wine bottle openers, cocktail napkins, and cups. You can use platters or serving tiers to add height to the table display and create movement. A tri-stand can be used for cheese, fruit, flowers, or simple finger foods. You can also add levels to the table with wood slices, wood crates, or granite pieces. A rustic farmhouse style can be created with wood boxes and galvanized metal pieces. Add greenery or other organic materials to soften the look.
Grazing tables are a great way to bring guests together. These can be breakfast or brunch buffets with waffles, pancakes, eggs, sausages, bacon, and fruit, or charcuterie boards with meats, cheese, olives, fruits, bread, and dips. Sushi and sashimi platters are also a good choice, with various dipping sauces and accompaniments like pickled ginger, wasabi, and soy sauce.
Dessert grazing tables are a good option, whether or not you have a wedding cake. Cookies, chocolates, puddings, and custards are sure to be a hit.
Drink Tables
Bar tables are used for bartenders to serve and prepare alcoholic beverages. Bistro tables are tiny, meant for two to three people, with high stools for sitting or standing.
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Sweetheart tables
A wedding reception is a celebration of the joining of two families, filled with love, laughter, and fun. When it comes to the table setup, there are many types of tables to consider, and one of the most important is the sweetheart table.
A sweetheart table is a special table set up solely for the newlywed couple at their wedding reception. It is a small, intimate table for two, where the couple can sit together facing their guests and enjoy some one-on-one time over dinner. This setup also makes it easier for guests to spot the couple from their tables. In addition, it can help navigate tricky family dynamics, as the couple doesn't have to choose which family members to sit with.
When creating a rustic reception, consider a wooden sweetheart table with a picnic-style setup. For an outdoor wedding, you might want to use a short sweetheart table so that guests can enjoy the view. A romantic setup could include a sweetheart table perched atop a cliff or overlooking a garden filled with roses, foliage, and candles.
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Tables for gifts and cards
Wedding receptions are a celebration of the joining of two families, filled with love, laughter, and fun. One of the many tables you will need at your wedding reception is a gifts and cards table. This table is primarily functional, providing a place for guests to drop off cards, gift boxes, and other tangible items. It is also an opportunity to create a fun and stylish design that complements the wedding's aesthetic and venue.
The gifts and cards table should be placed in a visible location at the reception venue, ideally somewhere that guests are guaranteed to walk past. It should be in the main event space, within easy eyesight, and near another high-traffic area such as the bar or dessert table. It should not be set up too close to an exit.
There are endless possibilities when it comes to crafting a creative display for your gifts and cards table. You can stick to the theme of your wedding with a bold design or keep it simple with modern acrylic card boxes. You can also use an open guitar case, a decorative box, or a large lantern lined with moss or succulents to hold cards and gifts. If you want to include additional decor, consider a seating chart, escort cards, framed photos, flowers, wedding favors, or candles.
If you are looking for a unique twist on a traditional table, consider using a shelving unit, a rowboat display, or an antique table. You can also add a personal touch by displaying your engagement photos on the table. For a rustic reception, a wooden sweetheart table with natural, outdoorsy decor elements can be a charming option.
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Bistro tables
If you are preparing a floor plan for your wedding reception, the table setup will be a priority. You will need to decide on the types and quantities of tables, as well as their placement and linen sizes. Bistro tables can be a good option if you want to offer some variety to your guests, in addition to the standard guest tables.
You can place bistro tables near the bar or food tables, offering a place for guests to rest their drinks and plates while they socialise. They can also be a good option for elderly or special needs guests, providing a reserved seating area closer to the food, bathroom, or exit.
When it comes to decor, you can dress up bistro tables with accent pieces that complement the overall theme of your wedding. Consider napkin folds, centrepieces, and table runners to add a creative and elegant touch to these tables.
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Frequently asked questions
The types of tables you'll need at your wedding reception will depend on the style of your wedding and the number of guests. You'll need tables for guests to sit at, and tables for food and drinks. You may also want to include tables for gifts, cards, cake, and a guest book.
The number of tables you'll need will depend on the number of guests and the size of your venue. You'll need enough tables to accommodate all your guests, with some space to spare. The size and shape of the tables will also impact how many people can sit at them. For example, a 36" round table typically seats 4 people, while an 8' banquet table can seat 8-10.
The type of tables you choose will depend on the style and theme of your wedding. You may want to choose between circular or rectangular tables, or a mix of both. If you want a more intimate setting, you can opt for longer banquet-style tables that seat all your guests together. For a more traditional approach, you can have a head table for the wedding party or a sweetheart table just for the newlywed couple.
