After selecting your venue, purchasing your dress, and finalizing your guest list, your attention may turn to another key part of the planning process: reserving your rentals. Rather than purchasing plates, chairs, and linens that you'll likely never use again (or that won't be aligned with future trends), most couples opt to rent these key items for their nuptials. However, depending on your venue and your caterer, some of these pieces may also already be included in your contract. For example, if you're tying the knot at a location that frequently hosts weddings, such as a stately ballroom, it may already have all of the chairs and tables you need for the occasion. Yet, if you and your partner are saying "I do" in a less traditional spot, such as the backyard of your family home, you'll likely need to bring each of these critical items into the space.
"Every venue and caterer is different, so this can vary quite a bit," says Lisa Jaroscak, the owner and lead planner of Elegante Weddings & Events. "Some caterers provide all of your rentals within their quotes and some don't. These are items like tables, chairs, tablecloths, napkins, bars, flatware, glassware, etc." As a result, after you determine your venue, work with your planner and any relevant vendors to determine the rentals you'll need for your big day.
Below, the experts break down everything you need to know about the eight most common wedding rentals.
Photo by Mike Cassimatis Photography
Linens
When it comes to your décor, don't overlook the power of your linens, which are one of the most common items couples rent for their big day. "We always say that the linens on your tables have more square footage than any other item in your dining area, and they can really make a difference," Jaroscak says. Lacy Karl, the owner of The Party New York, agrees, adding that if you're looking to add a unique touch to your tables, you may want to considered some in a bold hue or design. "Not every table needs to be identical; mixing and matching different patterns, textures, or color palettes across the tables can create an eye-catching and playful contrast for a really impactful look," she says.
Photo by Allen Tsai Photography
Tables
When selecting the tables for your reception, consider the shape of your space. While some brides and grooms gravitate toward round tables, others dream of a rectangular-shaped design. However, don't be afraid to choose an assortment. If you're operating on a tight budget, Rebecca Lang, the owner of L3 Events, suggests only upgrading select tables, such as your cake or head table.
Photo by Stories Matter
Chairs
The chairs you choose for your celebration are arguably one of your most important rentals. However, prices will vary based on the seat you pick. For example, Jaroscak notes a plastic white folding chair will typically cost around $8 to $10—while a gold and suede chair may be priced around $40. To save a bit of money, considering selecting a dual-purpose chair that can be used for both your ceremony and reception.
Photo by Erin Wilson Photography
Bars
Even though some couples decide to splurge on a custom bar for their big day, many opt to rent such a piece. However, even if you opt for the latter, know that you can still make this feature particularly unique by choosing a statement-making bar in a bold shade or trend-forward pattern. Want to stick to a neutral hue? Consider adding floral arrangements to either side of the counter as a way to tie in your color palette.
Photo by Daniel Kim
Flatware
In addition to your plates, charges, and napkins, your guests will need utensils in order to enjoy your reception food. As a result, you'll likely rent your knives, forks, and spoons. While some caterers may include flatware as part of their package, others won't. You also may opt to upgrade the silver flatware, selecting utensils in a gold or black hue instead.
Photo by Claire Eyos
Glassware
Depending the affair you're hosting, you may need to rent two, three, or even four glasses per person. As a result, make sure you're aligned with your caterer on what will be served prior to finalizing your glassware selections. For a one-of-a-kind touch, integrate more of your color palette into your place settings by upgrading to tinted glasses.
Photo by Roey Yohai Studios
China
The plates, bowls, and platters at your wedding play a key role in bringing your chosen aesthetic to life. If you're hosting a minimalist affair, you may keep such pieces relatively simple, selecting them in a monochromatic hue. However, for something that's bold and statement-making, you may opt for china that features symbols, colors, or patterns tied to your unique vision.
Photo by Abby Jiu Photography
Chargers
Even though you may not use a charger plate in your everyday life, this piece, which is set under your dinner plate, can transform an ordinary tablescape into one that feels special and memorable. However, if you're aiming to reduce expenses without sacrificing style, consider replacing chargers, which are typically priced between $15 and $25, with place plates, which offer a similar look at about half the cost, Karl says. Operating on an even tighter budget? She recommends turning to an eye-catching menu to fulfill the role of a charger or place plate.
