Outdoor Reception Seating Ideas

Outdoor receptions provide an opportunity for guests to mingle while enjoying the natural setting. Formal and casual seating options, including chairs, benches, outdoor furniture, traditional indoor furniture and hammocks are all options with outdoor venues. Choose the seating option that matches the formality and style of your event, while preserving the natural beauty of your location.

Benches

Organize a variety of benches for guest seating. Use garden benches, table benches and children's benches. Place the benches around a natural feature, such as a lake, or place them in a U-shape around a stage. Place rectangular tables between four benches to create a casual seating arrangement. Add cushions to make the bench seats comfortable. Coordinate the cushions to match the tablecloths.

Patio Furniture

If you have a large patio, use the existing patio furniture for an intimate reception. Use patio chairs, swings, tables and couches. Add umbrellas for shade or cover the entire patio with a tent. Organize small areas where you will direct guests to sit. Provide seats for four- to eight guests in each area.

Cabana

Create small cabana areas outdoors. Organize a small outdoor couch, table, and chairs in a group. Use PVC pipe to create a structure around the seating area. Hang curtains from the pipes. Add crisp linens to the tables to finish the look. Set up multiple areas around the reception site, and vary the seating arrangements depending on how many guests will be seated in each cabana. You can also use curtains in different colors to depict different seating areas for escort cards.

Large Tables

Instead of having traditionally separated tables, organize your seating so everyone is seated together. Create rows of feasting tables reminiscent of the Victorian era. Place a long table beside another long table until you have a series of tables that stretches dozens of feet. Organize three- to five large feasting tables. Cover with colorful linens. An advantage to this seating arrangement is that your guests will be able to see and communicate with many others.

Hammocks

For an ultra-casual reception, pick a venue with plenty of trees. String hammocks between the trees. Your guests can sit or lay in the hammocks for a casual and memorable reception experience. Add colorful pillows to complete the look. Set a stage or dance floor in the middle of the venue so guests can observe the festivities while lounging in the hammocks. Lay blankets and pillows around the reception area as an alternative for guests who aren't comfortable in the hammocks.

Hay

Set up bales of hay for a rustic look. Add small tables beside the bales of hay. Guests can sit on the hay directly or cover on blankets to make them more comfortable. Place the bales in long rows that face a stage like you would if you were using traditional folding chairs.

Lounge

Create a lounge feel by using indoor furniture outdoors. You can use small couches, loveseats, armchairs or recliners outdoors. Organize clusters of mini-lounges around the venue. Provide enough space between the lounges for adequate walking space. Give each lounge area a name so guests will know where their table is located.

Small Seats

Have guests sit on ottomans outdoors for an intimate reception. Use small, single units combined with larger ottomans. Place a variety of bean bags for children to use. Place the ottomans in a circle around the venue.

As an alternative, place six ottomans on each side of short or long tables. Provide food and beverages in the center of each table, family style. Organize these areas in a horseshoe-shape around the venue.