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What to Consider When Renting Tables for a Wedding

What to Consider When Renting Tables for a Wedding

Renting tables for a wedding is more complicated than just ensuring every guest has a seat at the reception. By carefully considering all aspects of your event, you can easily choose the best tables for every part of the special evening.

Tables You Need for a Wedding

While tables might seem like simple furniture, it can quickly become overwhelming to rent tables for a wedding when you realize just how many different types of tables you may need. While every event may not use every type of table, the most popular tables for a wedding include:

  • Cocktail Tables – These bar-height tables are generally small and used for a cocktail hour between the wedding and reception. They are usually set up outside the reception area in a spot where guests will mingle before entering the reception space.

  • Card/Gift Table – Some guests may bring gifts or cards to the wedding, and a display table for these items can be useful. This table is generally smaller and positioned near the entrance to the reception area so it is easy to find.

  • Guest Book Table – This is another small table that should be near the entrance to the reception area so guests can easily sign the remembrance book for the couple. If preferred, a single larger table can be used for cards, gifts, and the guest book.

  • Seating Table – If reception seating will be assigned, a seating table may hold place cards and table numbers so guests can find where they are to sit. This small table will be at the entrance to the reception hall and may also hold wedding favors for guests to pick up.

  • Dining Tables – These are the bread-and-butter tables of a wedding reception and are the main seating for guests during the meal. These tables may vary in shape and size, with both round and rectangular tables being very popular.

  • Head Table – The bridal party generally sits at the head table, flanking the happy couple, possibly with the bride’s and groom’s parents as well. This is a larger, more prominent, more elaborately decorated table, and is positioned where all guests can easily see it.

  • Sweetheart Table – Some couples prefer for the bride and groom to sit at a special table for two, the sweetheart table. This smaller table will take the place of the head table, but will still be in a prominent, visible spot in the reception hall.

  • Buffet Tables – Depending on how the wedding meal will be served, buffet tables may be needed to set up serving stations or a buffet line. These tables are sturdy and wide enough for serving dishes to fit easily. For individual stations, round tables may be used.

  • Cake Table – The wedding cake is the star of the meal, and deserves a place of honor with its own table. The cake table may be visible throughout the reception for photography, or it may be wheeled into the reception when the newlyweds are ready to cut their cake.

  • Kids’ Table – If there will be younger guests at the wedding, a designated table with more comfortable seating for children may be necessary. This can also be an activity space with coloring books or games to keep youngsters occupied during the event.

Choosing Tables to Rent

No matter which tables you need for your wedding, it is important to consider different factors when choosing the exact sizes and shapes for those tables. First, consult with the rental company about their inventory and recommendations, then take into account:

  • Venue – Choose tables that will coordinate with the overall style of the venue and event.
  • Size – Note the seating capacity or if the table will be large enough for its purpose.
  • Shape – Round and rectangular are popular, but tables may also be ovals, wedges, or triangles.
  • Height – Ensure the table will be the proper height to be used comfortably.
  • Seating Charts – Be sure the tables are ideal for conversation between guests.
  • Decorations – Tables should be the right size to support centerpieces and other decorations.
  • Materials – Tables could be plastic, glass, acrylic, wood, metal, or other materials.
  • Versatility – Some tables can be reused during the event, such as converting the entry table into the cake table before the dessert is served. This can be a budget savings.

Tips for Renting Wedding Tables

When you rent tables, read the contract thoroughly so you are aware of all the terms and conditions of the rental. Pay particular attention to when the tables will be delivered and who will set them up, to be sure there is enough time for the tables to be carefully decorated and ready for the event. Note whether the tables will need to be cleaned after the event, and how to contact the rental company if there are any problems or if the rental needs to be changed before the event.

By carefully considering the tables you will need for the wedding and working with the rental company to select the best options, you can easily plan all of your wedding spaces to be both practical and beautiful.