Do you have this wedding design dilemma?

Trestle or round tables?

When planning your wedding reception, one of the key elements to consider is the table layout. Two popular options are trestle (long rectangular) tables and round tables. Each layout offers benefits and challenges, so keep reading if you are stuck as to which design to choose for your wedding reception.  

Trestle Tables: Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Trestle tables create an intimate setting and encourage conversation between your guests as they are seated closer together.

  • This table shape offers a variety of design possibilities. You can arrange them in rows for a traditional setup or in a U-shape or E-shape for a unique layout.

  • If space might be an issue at your venue, these types of tables can often fit more guests in a smaller space maximising the number of guests you can invite to your wedding breakfast. 

Cons:

  • It can be more difficult for guests to move around and get up from their seats without disturbing others, particularly if the tables are tightly packed together. 

  • Due to their narrow width, most trestle tables might not be able to accommodate large floral arrangements or lots of table decor. 

Round Tables: Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • If you don’t want a top table, then round tables are a great option to have. You can mingle with your guests and have your table surrounded by your friends and family. 

  • You have greater flexibility and choice when it comes to your table centrepieces, decor and crockery as there is more space on these shape tables.

Cons:

  • Round tables generally take up more floor space than trestle tables, so you may need a larger venue to accommodate this style.

  • You may fit fewer guests per table which might not be ideal for larger weddings or more compact venues.

Think about your floral arrangements

If having dramatic and large floral arrangements on your reception tables is a must, then it’s important you choose the right size, shape and layout of tables to ensure everything fits perfectly onto the tables. Round tables offer more space if you want larger and taller floral designs with lots of floating candles and petals. For trestle tables you can choose long, low floral arrangements, garlands or bud vases that run the table's length. Adding candles and lanterns interspersed with the florals will create a romantic and inviting atmosphere. Whichever shape table you choose, just remember not to have your floral arrangements at eye level as your guests won't be able to talk to each other over the table.

Consider for your venue

Your venue's space and layout plays a crucial role in your choice of table shape. Smaller, more intimate venues might benefit from trestle tables to make the most of limited space. Larger venues with expansive floor plans can accommodate round tables without feeling overcrowded.

During your venue visit we would always suggest asking the venue how many tables they can accommodate, what the most popular layouts are and if you can see previous examples of what round vs trestle tables look like in the space. 

Types of wedding breakfast

If you have your heart set on a sharing board or platter for your guests, then we would recommend choosing trestle tables as this shape works beautifully for a sharing meal as it’s shape allows for much easier access to the plates as well as sharing between guests. If you are opting for a plated meal round tables provide a more classic dining experience and also give servers easy access to all guests.

Need some more advice?

As full-service wedding planners, we specialise in helping couples design and plan their wedding reception so it’s a seamless experience for you and your guests. From selecting the perfect table shape and layout to coordinating floral arrangements and decor hire items. We  ensure every detail is thoughtfully planned to reflect your wedding vibe and aesthetic. Get in touch with us today if you want to work with friendly and creative wedding planners. 

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