In order to know how many tables you need you have to have two things: your guest list and the dimensions of your reception hall.

Before planning out your dining area be sure to leave room for the dance floor. 100 guests need a 150 square foot dance floor. Add 100 extra square feet of dance space for each 50 additional guests and you will have a perfect area to accommodate your needs.

• Banquet tables:
  4 foot table seats 4-6
  6 foot table seats 6-8
  8 foot table seats 8-10

• Round tables:
  36" seats 2-4
  48" seats 6-8
  60" seats 8-10
  72" seats 10-12

You should allow 5 to 6 feet between tables for people to be able to sit and for comfortable walking room. Don’t forget a table for the cake, food if dinner is a buffet, wedding gifts, and the wedding party. Tall cocktail tables near the bar area are also a nice addition to a reception.

A note- always err on the side of being too roomy. If a table seats 6-8, I suggest seating six. Leaving 6 feet between tables makes traveling from one side of the banquet hall to the other a breeze. While this is not always practical, or even possible, it is nice to give guests more breathing room when you are able.

Chairs come in a variety of colors and types. Black, gold, natural, silver, and white chairs are just the beginning. Do you want Bamboo folding chairs with padded coordinating cushions or would you prefer chair covers with custom sashes? Seeing a table with the chairs you have chosen set out around it can help you make your decision. Chairs, chair covers and linens can make a huge difference in the appearance of your reception.

Linens for your tables come in a variety of choices as well. Checks, crush/pintock, themes, prints, plaids, floral, sheer, satin, textures, and damask are a few of the types of table linens. They all come in an endless amount of colors and designs.

If you feel overwhelmed by linens I have a suggestion. It is safer to stay with a solid color if you aren't’t great at coordinating your fabrics. You cannot go wrong with white linen table cloths for your reception tables. Bamboo chairs are a beautiful addition to your reception. If you are using gold or silver trimmed china you can have either gold or silver chairs to match. White linen chair covers with a sash to match your bridesmaid dresses are another safe choice. Consider the colors of the reception hall and your choice may be easier than you think. If the room has fabulous gold highlights go for the gold bamboo. Is it pretty neutral and need dressed up? Add color with a chair cover and sash.

I hope these suggestions help you design a floor plan that will leave plenty of room for fine dining and dancing during your wedding reception!