Farm Tables: Should You Use Them at Your Wedding Reception?

Are you looking for a way to make your wedding reception both more modernized and yet full of rustic charm? The increasingly popular farm table may be the perfect way to accomplish this with one simple style choice. What is a farm table? And how can you use it to its best advantage? Here are a few answers for every bride and groom.

What Are Farm Tables?

A farm table - sometimes referred to as harvest tables or farmhouse tables - is a modern take on a classic look. They are reminiscent of a family-style dining experience where everyone gathers together in one place and happily shares the bounty of the farm and home. Because of this, you can use farm tables to create a warm and homey feeling. You can also dress them up for a more formal appearance.

Long and wide, rectangular farmhouse tables seat anywhere from four to ten guests each. You can place them end-to-end to create one long table or set them up individually around the reception venue.

What Are Some Pitfalls of Farm Tables?

Farm tables do have some unique aspects that may make them slightly harder to work with. For example, their size can be a drawback depending on your venue layout. Because they often seat more people than other reception table styles, each individual table is, by default, large and inflexible. You also may not be able to fit as many diners as with other styles.

The preferred use of farmhouse tables at a reception is to place them in one or two long rows down the center of the venue. This effect, though, requires that you have the space to devote to a long line of tables. It may or may not be an efficient use of space, and people have to travel around the unbroken table setup to move around the venue.

How Can You Design Stunning Farm Tables?

The reason that long rows of connected farmhouse tables are so popular is that they create a gorgeous visual effect. It's often the centerpiece of a stylish wedding, drawing attention as soon as guests enter. You can further maximize this effect by designing one long continuous centerpiece that runs down the middle of the entire row. If using more than one row, mirror the effect on adjacent rows.

One of the easiest ways to do this is to use a statement runner than extends the entire length and hangs off each free end. Depending on your wedding theme, you might use a bold or contrasting color, lacy or delicately crafted runners, or a fun pattern. With a few added touches such as candles, lanterns, or targeted flower arrangements, the result is eye-catching without being overly complicated.

If you want to go extra, use this line down the center to feature a row-length floral or greenery arrangement. The extension of color and vibrancy from one end to the other makes a statement, but it doesn't need the height often required to make a statement centerpiece on a round or square table. Of course, if you want height - large flower arrangements or candelabras, for instance - you can do so.

Where Should You Start?

Want to get a better idea of how farm tables look and feel? Want some ideas on how to use them for the best effect at your own celebration? Then start by meeting with the wedding rental professionals at L & L Tent and Party Rentals today. We feature tables to fit any size or style of wedding as well as accessories that provide everything you need to make them work. Visit today to see our new inventory of farm tables in action.