Choosing the ideal table form for a wedding, business event, or private party may not seem like a big deal until it is. Whether you decide to use round or rectangular tables will have a significant impact on the design, flow, and general atmosphere of your event.

Both options have their benefits and drawbacks, and the best choice will rely on your venue, the number of guests, and the mood you want to create.

To help you in choosing the best option from table and chair rentals, this article will dissect the main benefits and drawbacks of each. This will later help you decide whether you are making the right choice:

Round tables

Benefits of round tables

The fact that round tables inherently encourage conversation is one of their main advantages over rectangular ones. It is easier for guests to interact when everyone is facing one another.

This is particularly useful for social events like weddings, when guests might not know one another well.

When placed in the middle of a room, round tables frequently appear more elegant and symmetrical, which is bound to give your room an elegant appeal. These make them ideal for ballrooms or tent events when you want to create an air of openness and fluidity.

On the other hand, when you place them in open or circular locations, you tend to create a unified atmosphere. They perform effectively when there is no clear “front” of the room, like in cocktail-style celebrations or non-traditional arrangements.

Negatives of round tables

Round tables generally require more square footage per visitor than rectangular tables. That means fewer people per area, which might be problematic in smaller settings.

If your event space is lengthy and small, spherical tables may cause awkward gaps or obstruct pedestrian paths. They are more difficult to organize efficiently in tighter or irregular settings.

Round tables do not sit flush with walls or other tables, limiting your layout options. This can make it difficult to maximize your space or create distinct zones inside a room.

Rectangular tables

Positives of rectangular tables

Rectangular tables usually accommodate more people in a smaller space. They’re great for working with a small floor plan or a huge guest count.

The tables are also ideal for rows, long banquet lines, and head table configurations. They neatly line up, and you can space them elegantly to accommodate walkways and servers.

They are also ideal for buffets, gift tables, and beverage stations. A row of 6- or 8-foot tables can provide a clean and efficient service area.

Negatives of rectangular tables

Guests seated at long tables may only speak with those directly next to or across from them. This tends to feel more formal or divided, particularly in large groups.

Rectangular tables may appear more utilitarian if not decorated. They benefit from creative tablecloths, runners, and centerpieces to prevent appearing too simple.

If tables are too close together, it can be difficult for visitors to walk about, especially if chairs are arranged back-to-back in tight spaces.

Seating arrangements to consider

There are many sitting arrangements that you can go for in your event. The most popular ones are:

Banquet seating layout

This classic style features round or rectangular tables distributed throughout the room, allowing guests to mix freely. Banquet layouts are perfect for weddings and gala dinners, as they foster a casual, sociable atmosphere.

Theatre and classroom seating

For conferences, lectures, or seminars, rows of seats (often with tables in front) help to direct attention forward. This arrangement is space-efficient for larger gatherings and facilitates event flow.

Boardroom and U-Shaped arrangements.

These layouts are ideal for corporate meetings or workshops, as they promote debate and collaboration. Seating is typically close, with tables arranged in a central configuration.

Family-style and communal tables

These long rows of shared tables are ideal for relaxed gatherings, modern weddings, or casual parties, as they promote conversation and closeness.

What should you consider when hiring tables?

For you to hire the right tables for your event, you need to consider several tips. These tips include:

The number of guests attending the event

Before anything else, decide how many people will be seated. This figure will help you plan how many tables and chairs you’ll need, as well as what sizes will work best.

Understand the event type.

A formal banquet will require different seating arrangements than a backyard BBQ or networking gathering. Consider how people will use the space: Will everyone be seated at once? Are there multiple spaces (eating, mingling, and cocktails)?

Consider your venue.

Indoor venues typically provide more layout options, but outdoor sites may necessitate specialized table designs (for example, larger bases for uneven ground). Tent rents, flooring, and weather backups are all important considerations.

The theme of your event

Whether rustic, beautiful, sophisticated, or casual, your furniture can contribute to the overall style. Choose chairs and tables that complement your event’s visual tone, even if it means mixing different types between zones.

How to get the most from chair and table rentals

For you to have the best experience, you need to make several good decisions. These things include:

Rent the right number of tables: As mentioned above, you need to be ultra-cautious of the number of guests attending your event. This then goes without saying that you should rent enough tables and chairs so that there is no one left standing or in an awkward position.

Remember that you are always better off renting more tables than you need than having fewer.

Work with a reputable company: The event rentals Rockland company you work with is of vital importance, as it determines the experience that you will have. Working with a top-quality company ensures that you get high-quality chairs that won’t break down in the middle of the event.

High-quality party rentals are also more likely to be insured, which means that in the event of an accident, you won’t be liable for replacing the broken or damaged tables and chairs.

These companies will indeed be a little expensive, but they will be totally worth the price.