Wedding Chat-Round vs. Long Tables?
Which is Right for Your Wedding?
As a wedding florist, I'm often asked: "Should we go with round tables or long trestle tables for our reception?" It's one of those decisions that affects everything from your venue layout to your floral design, and in my opinion, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Both options create beautiful celebrations, but they offer very different vibes and come with their own considerations.
So I thought I could talk you through the pros and cons of each to help you decide what's right for your big day.
The Case for Round Tables
The Advantages
Conversation flows naturally. Round tables are brilliant for encouraging chat among all your guests. Everyone can see each other easily, and no one gets stuck at an awkward end position. If you're mixing friend groups or seating people who don't know each other well, rounds make it easier for everyone to join in.
Classic and versatile. There's a reason round tables are the traditional choice. They work beautifully in almost any venue, from grand ballrooms to intimate spaces, and they suit every wedding style from formal black-tie affairs to relaxed garden parties.
Flexible for different guest counts. Rounds typically seat 8-10 people comfortably, which makes it easier to accommodate tables of varying sizes if your RSVPs create odd numbers.
Centerpiece opportunities. From a florist's perspective, round tables are wonderful for showcasing statement centerpieces. A tall, dramatic arrangement or a lush low design sits perfectly in the center where everyone can admire it without obstruction.
The Drawbacks
They can feel formal. Round tables tend to create a more traditional, structured atmosphere. If you're going for a relaxed, communal vibe, they might feel a bit too conventional.
Space requirements. Rounds actually need more floor space than you might think. Each table requires clearance all around it for guests and servers to move freely, which can limit guest capacity in smaller venues.
Less connected feel. While conversation works well at individual tables, rounds can make the room feel more segmented. Guests tend to stay within their table group rather than mingling across the room.
Higher floral costs (potentially). Since you need a separate centerpiece for each table, the floral budget can add up quickly if you have many tables.
The Case for Long Trestle Tables
The Advantages
Creates a communal atmosphere. Long tables bring that family-style, feast-like feeling that's so popular right now. They encourage a sense of togetherness and make your reception feel more like an intimate gathering than a formal event.
Stunning visual impact. From a design perspective, trestle tables are a dream. Long, continuous floral runners, candlelight stretching the length of the table, and cohesive styling create an absolutely gorgeous tablescape that photographs beautifully.
Better use of space. Long tables often accommodate more guests in less square footage, making them ideal for venues with challenging layouts or lower guest capacities.
Cost-effective florals. You can create impact with runners, scattered blooms, and greenery that often cost less than multiple large centerpieces. The continuity of design means you're not buying arrangements in multiples.
Flexible configurations. Whether you want one long imperial table, parallel rows, or a U-shape setup, trestle tables offer lots of creative layout options.
The Drawbacks
Conversation challenges. Let's be honest: it's harder to chat with someone five seats down a long table. Guests primarily talk to those immediately next to them, which can feel limiting if you've carefully planned your seating.
The "end seat" problem. Someone has to sit at the ends, and these spots can feel a bit isolated or less desirable than being in the middle of the action.
Venue limitations. Not all venues work well with long tables. Rooms with columns, awkward shapes, or limited length can make trestle tables impractical or force you into less attractive configurations.
Harder to accommodate varying group sizes. If you need tables of different sizes to handle your guest count, long tables can look mismatched or create layout challenges.
Can feel cramped. If not properly spaced, long tables with guests on both sides can feel a bit tight, especially when people are standing or moving about.
So, Which Should You Choose?
Here's my advice after years of supplying flowers for both setups:
Choose round tables if:
You're having a more formal or traditional wedding
Your guest list mixes lots of different social groups
Your venue has an unusual shape or limited length
You want that classic, elegant reception feel
You're dreaming of show-stopping individual centerpieces
Choose trestle tables if:
You want a relaxed, family-style atmosphere
Your guest list is primarily close friends and family who already know each other
You love the look of abundant floral runners and continuous tablescapes
Your venue has good sight lines and works well with long configurations
You're working with a tighter floral budget but want maximum impact
The hybrid approach: Don't forget you can mix both! A sweetheart table or head table as a long trestle with round guest tables, or a combination of both table types throughout the room, can give you the best of both worlds.
A Final Thought from Me!
Whatever you choose, remember that beautiful florals, thoughtful design, and warm hospitality will make your reception special regardless of table shape. I've seen magical celebrations with both configurations. The "right" choice is simply the one that fits your vision, your venue, and your guest dynamics.
Trust your instincts, picture how you want your day to feel, and don't be afraid to visit venues with different table setups to see what resonates with you. And of course, talk to your florist early in the process so we can help you maximize the beauty of whichever option you choose!
Still deciding? I'd love to chat about how we can create stunning florals for your reception, whether you go round or long. Get in touch to schedule a consultation!
Caroline
Wedding Flowers
If you’re planning an intimate wedding in Sussex, Surrey, Kent or beyond for 2026, I’d love to hear from you. And if you want to follow along, you can find me on Instagram/Facebook. Do also sign up to the newsletter for occasional exciting email updates!
