Round Tables vs Trestle Tables: Which is Right for Your Event?
When planning an event – whether it’s a wedding, corporate function, birthday party or community celebration – there is one decision that can quietly shape the entire guest experience: your choice of tables. While it may seem like a small detail, the debate between round tables vs trestle tables has a big impact on the layout, flow and vibe of your event.
In this guide, we will break down the benefits of both round and trestle tables and give you a little insight on which works best for each different type of event.
Round Tables: Ideal for Conversations
Often, when people think of formal event furniture, they instantly think of round tables; however, round tables are versatile enough to suit a wide range of events. Their circular shape encourages interaction between guests and helps to foster a sense of inclusivity. Round tables also tend to seat more guests per table compared to trestle tables, helping you reduce hire costs and maximise space efficiency.
Why Choose Round Tables?
- Better guest interaction: Everyone can see each other, which is ideal for table-wide conversations. No one gets stuck at the end!
- Ideal for formal dining: Round tables suit planned meals and full-course service, giving each guest personal space and a sense of occasion.
- Balanced table styling: Centrepieces are a breeze – think florals, candles or elegant place settings that feel unified and symmetrical.
- Comfortable spacing: The round shape avoids sharp corners allowing for smoother traffic flow around the venue.
Trestle Tables: Practical & Versatile
Trestle tables are a go-to choice for events that need flexibility or quantity. Whether you’re creating long communal banquet lines or food stations, trestle tables give you freedom and structure at the same time. Not only are they more practical on-site, they are also more cost effective and space-efficient than round tables, making them a great option for large events or festivals. You can also organise them into a horseshoe or square which is effective for certain events such as some corporate functions.
Why Choose Trestle Tables?
- Space-efficient layouts: Their rectangular shape allows you to fit more people into a tighter space, which is ideal for smaller venues or large venues needing to fit lots of tables into.
- Banquet-style seating: Line them up end-to-end and create a long banquet table that can look stunning with greenery and table runners.
- Easy to decorate: A linen table runner and some candles go a long way. You can dress them up or down depending on the event vibe.
- Faster setup and pack-down: Their uniform shape makes them easier to move and stack, improving logistics making them a great choice for large events or events with tight timelines.
Which Suits You? Round Tables vs Trestle Tables
Are you still unsure about which table suits you and your event? Well, let’s break it down event by event and determine which table suits each event!
| Event Type | Best Table Choice | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
|
Traditional Wedding |
Round Tables |
Creates an elegant and social atmosphere with easier table service. |
|
Rustic Outdoor Wedding |
Trestle Tables |
Matches the theme and allows for long table styling. Trestle tables also work well in marquees. |
|
Corporate Networking Event |
Round Tables |
Encourages balanced conversations and avoids awkward seating. |
|
Training Day / Workshops |
Trestle Tables |
Ideal for workbooks, laptops and collaborative workspaces. |
|
Festival or Market |
Trestle Tables |
Trestle’s are space-saving and suitable for food or trader stalls. |
|
Indoor Party |
Round or Trestle |
Round for seated dining or trestles for buffet or casual settings. |
|
Outdoor Party |
Trestle Tables |
Easy to move, set up and dress for a relaxed, party feel. |
Making the Right Choice for Your Event
Choosing between round and trestle tables ultimately comes down to the style, space, and flow you want to create. Round tables encourage conversation and a relaxed feel, while trestle tables offer structure and space-saving benefits — ideal for tighter venues or long banquet-style layouts.
Think about how your table choice supports your event’s atmosphere, guest comfort, and logistics like catering or decor. Even small layout decisions can make a big impact on the guest experience.
Still weighing up your options? You can browse both our trestle tables and round tables to see what suits your event best. Or if you’d prefer a bit of guidance, feel free to reach out through our contact page — we’re happy to help you plan a setup that works.
