What table should you chose when planning an event?

An event requires so much more than choosing your food, your theme or your venue. One of the items to consider when planning an event is your table choice and setting. There are so many options to chose from, we will let you know the pro’s and con’s of each type to ensure you choose the perfect fit for your event.

Round Tables

Round tables are synonymous with elaborate traditional events such as weddings. They promote closeness and intimacy amongst guests as a result of everyone being able to see and hear each other while seated around the table. Round tables have no corners and thus no sharp edges for people to walk into. The lack of corners implies that there is no hierarchy at the table e.g. There is no head of the table thus all guests are neutrally allocated and seated.

Round tables have a large surface area which is wonderful as you can place vibrant flower arrangements, props and decorations suitable to your theme in the centre, thus your table can be used as a large component of your decor plans.

The negative aspects of a round table is they can take up a large amount of space due to the large surface area of the table top. If space is a premium at your event, a round table may not be the best idea. Round table placement can create pockets of “lost space” between the tables thus if your space is limited, round tables may not work effectively for your event. Due to the size of the diameter of a round table the table also takes up ‘visual’ space on the floor plan thus consider your table dressings when planning to use a round table. For example white tablecloths on the tables create a neutral clean effect thus making the area look bigger.

Rectangular Tables

Rectangular tables are a traditional choice of table however it is fast becoming a modern choice of tables for events. Rectangular tables have two long sides with two short sides completing the rectangle. The simple, linear shape of a rectangular dining table easily fits into any space, allowing for ease of movement when walking around the table. This shape allows for more people to be seated in a smaller area which is great for a large amount of guests in a semi small venue. Rectangular tables take up less space and due to their shape you can place these tables in a strategic setting to harness the full amount of available space.

Rectangular tables allow the host to create leading lines by placing tables together which can add to the effect of your event. There is space down the centre of the table to place decorative items such as a table runner, flowers or other props.

The negative aspects of a rectangular table is that is can be difficult to converse with all members of the table, thus you can be limited to talking to the people either side of you. Rectangular tables have sharp edges and have a hierarchy thus if someone sits at the short end of the table they are historically considered to be of more importance.

Square Tables

A square table has four equal sides. This table combines the benefits of round and rectangular tables together. The square tables are modern and take up less space than a round table allowing them to be arranged in a multitude of manner to fit the space. Square tables allow intimacy and closeness (as with the round tables) as the distance between most people is uniformed. As a result of the geometric shape and symmetry these tables are pleasing to the eye in most shape rooms especially a square room. As with the above mentioned tables there is still considerable space to add your decorative elements into the centre of the table.

The cons of a square table include the limited table seating of guests. There is however the potential to add two square tables together to create more seating options. The guests sitting diagonally opposite each other may not be able to hear the conversations or interact due to the large space between them. This table has the most empty space in the middle of the table which can create decorative challenges as well as space challenges, however it can also be seen as a positive to allow space for flowers, food. gifts etc.

A few tips to remember when choosing your tables.

• Consider the look you would like your event to have. For example if you are looking for a modern look we suggest rectangular tables. If you are aiming for a softer traditional look we would suggest a round table.
• Think about your decorative elements on the table. If your elements are smaller we would recommend a rectangular table so that the table does not over shadow your decorations. If you have more theatrical and extravagant decor elements a square and round table would lend itself better to these elements due to their ample space at their centre.

We wish you the best with planning your event.