Take a Seat – A Guide to Event Chairs

A glorious image appeared recently on my Facebook feed featuring a gorgeous chair setting at a special event and it reminded me of how totally awesome chairs can be. I may be obsessed with linens, but selecting the correct chair for an event is just as fun …and really, they are a crucial element of your overall event design. What you are trying to achieve in atmosphere will dictate things like: plastic or wood? banquet or chiavari? bar stool or bench? chair covers or chair tie? chair embellishments or au naturale? …So many options, I'm giddy just listing them.

OK, collecting myself… of course, one must also consider the practicality of the chair: is your selection budget friendly and will your guests be comfortable? Consider if your venue provides chairs, as many banquet facilities do. Also consider how long your guests will be seated – what is the backing of the chair and is there a chair pad? While the fit with your scheme and table scape is important, the previously mentioned considerations will also be key to the success of your event. Chairs vary from plastic folding to something that would have a permanent place at your dining table and everything in-between, and cover all styles and tastes from functional and simple to modern and eclectic. Of course beyond the chair itself, as I previously mentioned, comes the chair tie and the chair cover – more ways to create that dream design.

Let's take a look at the basics and some of the most common chairs: