Celebrate Success Without Overcrowding the Room
Company banquets and awards nights are about honoring your team β but a cramped or awkward setup can ruin the vibe. Whether itβs a formal dinner or an employee appreciation event, getting the right number of tables and chairs (and placing them correctly) makes all the difference. Hereβs how to plan a clean, elegant, and functional layout for your next corporate celebration.
Start with These Planning Questions
- Is it a sit-down dinner or buffet-style?
- Will there be a stage or projector for awards?
- Are people arriving all at once, or in waves?
- How much space do you have to work with?
These answers guide your layout choices and rental quantities.
Recommended Tables for Corporate Banquets
Table Type | Size | Best Use |
---|---|---|
Round Tables | 60β or 72β | Guest dining tables |
6-ft Rectangular | 72βx30β | Buffet or dessert stations |
8-ft Rectangular | 96βx30β | Company swag or step-and-repeat wall |
Cocktail Tables | 30β dia | Pre-event drinks/mingling area |
π€ Pro Tip: Use round tables for a cleaner banquet look with open sightlines to the stage.
Chair Count by Seating Style
Event Format | Chairs per Guest | Notes |
---|---|---|
Sit-Down Dinner | 1 per guest | Count every confirmed RSVP |
Open Buffet + Mingling | 60β80% of guest count | Fewer chairs, more flexibility |
Awards + Dinner | 1 per guest + 4β8 extras | In case of late arrivals |
Don't forget extras for staff, hosts, and award presenters.
Example Layout: 100 Guest Banquet with Awards Presentation
Item | Quantity |
---|---|
60β Round Tables | 10β12 |
Folding Chairs | 100β110 |
Buffet Table (6-ft) | 2β3 |
Stage/Podium Table | 1 (6-ft) |
Cocktail Tables | 4β6 |
Plan 10 square feet per seated guest to allow for easy movement.
Other Tips
- Place award tables or podiums at one end, not the center
- Avoid blocking sightlines with decor or tall centerpieces
- Consider placing drink or dessert tables near the exit for smooth flow
Final Thoughts
Awards nights are about recognition β so your setup should feel thoughtful and spacious. Round tables create a premium look, and planning for movement ensures your guests stay focused on the celebration, not on squeezing past chairs.
Need help planning your seating layout for a company event? Weβve got banquet tables, chairs, cocktail setups, and more ready to rent.