Planning a wedding can be equal parts stressful and fun. It requires a lot of thought and attention to detail in order to organise the perfect day.
As part of this, you may need to consider hiring wedding furniture. We know – it’s not particularly exciting, but it’s these smaller details that can absolutely make your big day.
How much furniture you need to order will depend on your guest numbers, wedding venue and a few other factors. So, let’s take a closer look!
Round tables for dinner
As you might expect, one of the most common hires for a wedding is the tables required for the wedding dinner.
For a sit-down meal, you’ll first need to work out how many guests are likely to be invited (and actually turn up!), because this will determine the number of tables that you need.
It’s also important to take into consideration the size of the room in which you’re holding the meal to ensure that the number of tables you need will fit properly.
As a general rule, you can estimate how many tables you’ll need with these simple calculations:
· 12 people comfortably sit around a 7’ round table
· 10 people can sit around a 6’ round table
· nine will be comfortable at a 5’6” round table
· five people can sit around a 5’ round
Table numbers and sizes really are important, because the wrong number can lead to a pretty uncomfortable dinner.
This, in turn, can impact the strict timing of your day. If you’re planning a wedding breakfast, consider using 6ft or 7ft round tables to ensure everyone is included.
On top of this, you’ll want to consider linen for your table and chair coverings that match your theme. This may also include serving linen such as napkins.
Trestle and cake tables
Trestle tables are longer tables that are perfect for an evening buffet, reception drinks, presents, or teas and coffees.
Having these tables available on the big day will make it easier for lots of people to access at once when the evening’s food is laid out. Which, as you’re no doubt aware, really matters.
Caterers often serve buffets on these tables, and therefore, will be experienced in presenting it nicely (and conveniently for everyone).
A smaller, standalone table is also worth considering for displaying your stunning wedding cake. Without one, your cake will often get lost on a larger table surrounded by other items when it should really be the centre of attention.
Guest chairs and highchairs
As well as tables, you’ll obviously need to provide chairs for your guests to sit on. Think about the type of chair that will be most appropriate for your guests and how this will fit into your theme. For instance, are you looking for a simple but elegant white, a more rustic look, or a bolder metallic?
Are small children invited to your big day? If so, it’s important to ensure that tables have high chairs available for them during the wedding meal. High chairs often take up a bit of space, so you’ll need to factor that in for their table. Older children might even want a table of their own so they can all be together.
This will make the lives of any parents present much easier while they balance enjoying your special day with taking care of their kids.
Poseur tables (the hidden gem)
If you have a bar area or plan on having a drinks reception, consider hiring some poseur tables. Never heard of them? They’re basically bar-like tables which are, essentially, just higher than regular tables.
This will allow guests to mingle more easily and provide an ideal place for them to rest their drinks. Poseur tables can be placed either indoors and outdoors to create the perfect drinks reception.
Don’t forget the coat rails!
If you’re planning a wedding in autumn or winter, it may also be an idea to hire coat rails for guests, so that they don’t have to carry their coats around. Even spring and summer guests may bring light jackets for the evening when it gets colder.
Having a designated space will avoid any coats appearing messily in the background of your photos, consequently spoiling your décor and taking the attention away from the beautiful wedding party.
We hope this has helped you consider what furniture you need for your event, but if you need any more assistance with wedding furniture hire, just get in touch with the awesome Plato team.