Round or long tables? Choosing tables for your wedding reception

The tables you choose shape the whole feel of a reception. Round tables say classic banquet. Long tables say family feast. Both work. The right choice depends on your room, your guest count and the kind of evening you want.

Round tables

The traditional choice, and still the most common.

Why people choose them

• Easy conversation. Everyone can see and talk to everyone else at the table.
• Simple to plan. Each table is its own little group, so seating is a matter of filling tables of 8 or 10.
• Flexible. Rounds fit around a dance floor, a stage or awkward corners.

What to watch for

• They take more floor space than long tables for the same number of guests.
• Across-the-table talk is hard at large rounds. At a 72 inch (180 cm) table, people mostly talk to their neighbours.
• Some seats face away from the head table or speeches.

Our wedding plan for 100 guests is a typical round-table layout.

Long tables

Rows of rectangular tables, often pushed end to end into long runs.

Why people choose them

• They seat more people in less space, which helps in narrow rooms, barns and marquees.
• A warm, family-style feel, especially with shared platters.
• Striking to look at, with long runs of candles, flowers or greenery down the middle.

What to watch for

• You talk to three or four people: the ones beside you and across from you.
• Seating is harder. You're placing people in one long line rather than in neat groups, so friendship groups need more thought.
• Getting in and out of the middle of a long bench is awkward. Leave gaps every few tables.

See our rustic wedding with long feast tables for an example.

Mixing both

You don't have to choose. Many receptions use:

• Long tables for the wedding party and family, with rounds for everyone else.
• Rounds in the middle of the room and long tables along the edges.
• A long head table facing a room of rounds, the most classic mix of all.

A mix also helps fill an oddly shaped room without wasting space.

How to decide

Ask yourself:

1. What shape is the room? Long, narrow rooms suit long tables. Square rooms suit rounds.
2. How many guests? If space is tight, long tables fit more people.
3. How will food be served? Family-style platters suit long tables. Plated dinners work with either.
4. What matters more: mingling or a sense of togetherness? Rounds make little groups. Long tables make one big table.

Once you've chosen, use our guide to how many tables you need to get the numbers right.