You’ve painstakingly perfected your tablescape but the most commonly overlooked feature of an event design? The seating.
It goes without saying that chairs at your event are essential, but we understand how they could be pushed to the back burner when bigger planning factors are considered. The types of chairs you choose will affect your wedding decor and overall aesthetic. They’ll be in a lot of your wedding photos — and depending on the size of your guest list, you could have hundreds of them throughout your venue. Even if you only invest in a few special chairs for your sweetheart table and keep the rest simple, we think being educated on your options is worth it!
Chiavari Chairs
This faux-bamboo option has been around forever and was the pioneer in the early 2000s when looking for an “elevated” level of sophisticated seating. They’re most often used at traditional weddings and very formal events and can be left bare or dressed up with fabric covers. Chiavari chairs are most commonly seen at events in natural wood, neutral tones, or metallics, but some rental companies offer bright colors, pastels, or even transparent varieties. Tie-on seat cushions enhance guest comfort and are usually available in white, ivory, or black.
“Ghost” Chairs
These event chairs are made entirely of acrylic or lucite. Ghost chairs provide the most modern look for your big day and are typically used in a clear finish for a sleek, minimalist effect. If you want to go bold, they’re also available in opaque black, translucent gray, pink, blue, green, and orange. Ghost chairs are easy to keep clean and won’t clash with other decor or furnishings. Use two for the sweetheart table, just a few at small tables in a Moving Style Event, or use these for the whole room!
Folding Chairs
By far, the most popular chairs for outdoor events are the classic Folding or Lawn chairs. A popular option for outdoor weddings and events, these folding chairs can be left alone or easily dressed up using adornments like small floral arrangements or other aisle markers. An option that’s easy on your wallet, they’re available in various colors to match the theme color(s) of your event.
Wooden folding chairs make an ideal choice for couples who want a hint of sophistication without too much fuss. Folding chairs are a go-to for designers who plan on repurposing a single space for several functions. These chairs can be set-up and stowed quickly to transition from ceremony to reception fluidly.
Cross-back Chair
These chairs are taking the wedding world by storm. Reminiscent of what we imagine would reside at an Italian vineyard, these chairs are beautiful. They’re usually seen in a natural wood finish with the signature “X” on the back. Cross-back chairs offer photo-ready rustic elegance and are among the most popular wedding chair styles for farms, gardens, vineyards, and barn venues.
Professional Insight
Looks aside, when selecting a chair for your event, imagine you are a guest. Ask yourself whether you’d be comfortable sitting in that chair for the duration of the wedding, corporate event, or another occasion. Here are a few other important considerations professional event designers use to factor into their overall decisions:
- Will the event be indoors or in a covered area?
- If the event is outdoors, will the chairs be on an even or uneven surface?
- How long will guests be sitting? Consider padded chairs for seated events longer than one hour.
- Chairs often appear in event photos, so select chairs that complement your event’s aesthetic.
- Do you need specialty seating such as high chairs, barstools, booster seats, etc.?
- What will your guests be wearing? Choose a style that will match the tone of the event!
Interested? Need an Expert Opinion?
Reach out to our talented Event Coordination and Planning Team! From logistics to style, their experience makes them capable of answering any questions you might have.
