Table Talk

There are many different types of tables at weddings and things to think about when preparing a floor plan for the Reception. Here are some ideas:

Cocktail Tables:

Perfect for those having a cocktail wedding, cocktail or bistro tables allow guests to rest their bags and drinks and provide spots to mingle. The ratio of these, is of course less than guests!A low cocktail table may hold two guests and two chairs, while a tall (often called a highboy) is simply for standing

Head Tables and Family Tables:
You may choose to make your head table the same shape and size as your guests tables and sit the table in amongst your guests.
You may choose to sit with your parents instead of your bridal party
You may want to seat your bridal party with their partners, or if at the same table sit the partners with you
You can even choose to have vacant places at a number of tables and sit at a different table of guests for every course.

Guest Tables:
The most traditional option is to seat guests in numbers of 8-10 at large round tables. Most reception venues offer this option. Round Tables can typically seat between 8-`2 guests

Square tables are a modern take on the round and can creaye a better atmosphere for easy conversation between your guests. They can also look rather elegant and formal with an equal number of guests sitting on all sides. Decorations are made easier too- table runners fit better and centrepieces can take on a different feel, given that they have more space. Square tables typically seat between 2-3 guests on each side (8 or 12).

Long rectangular tables give a wedding an intimate, family like feel. Seating all guests at only two long tables will give a dramatic touch to your reception. Of course you could break them up, or set them up to line the end of the head table.
Caution: Rectangular tables- especially when there are only one or two for 100+ guests- do not promote mingling as well as round or square.

Alternating the table top shape is a great way to provide a different feel to your reception. Mixing it up can give you a variety of options on how you want to seat guests.
Guests who know each other well might be comfortable at a square table, whereas a round table may help conversation for unfamiliar guests.

Buffet Tables:
Nowadays, buffets are not limited to casual weddings. Formal weddings can provide delicious feasts, even breaking up buffets so there is a seafood buffet, salad buffet, cake buffet et. When done well it can be not only a feast for the mouth but also a feast for the eyes!

Cake Tables:
Often displayed in front of the head table, the cake table holds the most delicious part of the wedding reception! The cake table can hold just the cake but is often decorated with rose petals and candles.

Fun tables:
The lolly or candy buffet may be placed on the same table as the cake table. Ensure that this is placed in an area where there won’t be a bottleneck if guests are gathered around it (which they surely will!)