Reception logistics: How many people can fit around your reception tables?

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Byzantium, Redcliffe. Banquet style tables

Planning out your seating chart can be a doozy if you're not sure how many guests can fit around the tables at your reception venue. We've got a rough guideline to help you plan how many guests to seat at your tables, depending on their size and shape. We've also included estimates for highboy tables, which are often found at cocktail receptions. Let's talk shop on reception logistics and how many guests you can fit at your tables…

Reception logistics: How many people can fit around your reception tables?
Photo by Traci Martin

How many people can fit around a round table?

36″ seats 4 People
40″ seats 4-5 People
48″ seats 5 People
56″ seats 6-8 People
60″ seats 8 People
72″ seats 10 People

How many guests will fit around a rectangular banquet table?

30″ x 48″ seats 4 people
30″ x 72″ seats 6 people
30″ x 96″ seats 8-10 people (depending on if you're seating anyone at the ends)

How many people fit at a highboy table?

Highboy tables are designed to accommodate standing guests, so they're a little more forgiving:

24″ diameter top: 3 standing guests
30″ diameter top: 4-5 standing guests
36″ diameter top: 5-6 standing guests

Reception logistics: How many people can fit around your reception tables?
Photo by Brandon Kowallis

Tips for reception tables:

  • Plan a minimum of 24-30 inches for each place setting and another 24 inches of space behind each chair to allow for passing behind.
  • If the tables have a low apron (the wood panel below the tabletop), it may be uncomfortable for guests' legs. Find chairs that seat at a comfortable height.
  • If your chairs have arms, make sure they're low enough to slide under the table. Tables can always be raised with casters or table lifts.

More seating chart advice awaits!

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