What size table do I need to seat 12 people?

For twelve guests, the shape of your table matters as much as its length. A long rectangle gives everyone a clear view of each other and the room, which is ideal for a wedding breakfast. Plan for roughly 60 centimetres of space per person along the edge so arms and plates do not clash. If you prefer a round table, choose one at least 1.8 metres in diameter. This lets guests reach the centre without stretching and keeps conversation flowing naturally around the circle.

Think about the chairs too. Standard dining chairs need about 60 centimetres of width plus some extra room behind for people to slide in and out. If the venue has narrow aisles, you may want slightly narrower chairs or a table that sits a little further from the walkway. Round tables are often easier to move around in tight spaces.

If you are unsure about the exact dimensions, ask your venue what tables they have on site. Many can join two smaller tables together to reach the length you need. It is always worth measuring the room before you finalise your layout.