How to set up a wedding reception
Author: Jpl Date Posted:12 October 2016
How to set up a room for a wedding reception If you are looking to do a DIY wedding reception you may need some assistance with room layout and when setting the tables. Planning the room layout is critical for a successful reception. Nobody likes to be jammed behind someone or up against a speaker.
If you are looking to do a DIY wedding reception you may need some assistance with room layout and when setting the tables. Planning the room layout is critical for a successful reception. Nobody likes to be jammed behind someone or up against a speaker. A few small things to consider will make a big difference on the day.
Room layout
In a traditional wedding the bridal table is usually rectangular and placed at the end of the room facing the guests with either a backdrop behind or if your lucky beautiful views such as windows opening to a vineyard. The guests are seated at either round (most popular) or rectangular tables looking towards the couple with a dance floor in the middle or either end of the room.
Other things to consider are:
- Lighting - if your reception will be at sundown make sure your guests and the bridal table will not be squinting into the sunlight. Candlelight is romantic but consider supplementing the lighting if its too dark for guests to feel comfortable.
- Spacing - allow adequate space between tables so as guests can get up and mingle easily otherwise you will have an empty dancefloor!
- Safety - if using lighting and cables ensure the cables are secured and use tape so guests don't trip on cords or other obstacles.
- Visibility - you are the star attraction and all the guests will want to be able to view the bridal table so try to ensure this when planning - using levels or a platform can help.
- Dance floor- ensure there is adequate space for dancing and don't place guests near the dance floor that are perhaps shy, elderly, unwell or tee totallers as it can get rowdy!
- Children - if you are having kids at your reception consider getting some entertainment such as colouring in packs or other age appropriate activities. Also consider their proximity to items of potential diaster such as the cake table, sound equipment and also ease of access to toilets.
- Table decorations - table centre pieces are fun and can really make your decor come together. However bear in mind practicality such as visibility for your guests and how much space they take up on the table.
If you are setting your own tables it can be difficult to know what is required and which goes where! Below is a simplified diagram to guide you on setting both a formal and informal setting.
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