How many tables do I need?
The arithmetic is simple: tables = guests ÷ seats per table, rounded up. Add a head or sweetheart table separately if you're having one.
How many seats per table?
That depends on the tables your venue or hire company has and how tightly you want to seat people. Ask them for the comfortable and the maximum number for each table size they offer, and plan on the comfortable number – it leaves room for plates, centrepieces and the odd late addition.
Things that change the count
- Children's tables or high chairs.
- Guests in wheelchairs (a place setting without a chair, with room to manoeuvre).
- Vendors who need a seat for the meal.
- Keeping groups together sometimes means a table runs one or two short – that's fine.