When you are planning event, there are many details to consider including what kind of chair style best fits your function. If you’re already deep into the process of event planning, you are probably not surprised to learn of the many different types of chairs for indoor and outdoor events. Over the next several weeks, we’ll have a look at some of the most common chairs for tented events so you can find the ideal fit for your function.
Chiavari and Padded Ceremony Chairs
Let’s start by highlighting the most popular chair for tent events – Chiavari chairs (sometimes referred to as banquet chairs). The original design of Chiavari chairs dates to the Italian renaissance. Featuring a sleek and simple design, these straight-backed chairs are easily stacked for storage and may feature seat cushioning for added comfort. These chairs are especially common for weddings as they can easily be adapted to fit any style or aesthetic.
Padded Ceremony Chairs are sometimes known as folding chairs – these are also convenient for storage and feature a padded seat. These chairs are usually constructed from wood giving them an elegant finish, and because they fold they can easily be moved and stored even during the event to make space for a dance floor, buffet table, or other event amenities.
Bentwood Café and Chameleon Chairs
Bentwood Café chairs date to the 1800s and are a great choice for any type of tent event. A simple but elegant design, Bentwood Café chairs are stylish enough for an upscale wedding but functional enough for a more casual outdoor celebration.
Chameleon chairs, as their name applies, can be easily adapted to fit any décor or aesthetic. The chair is usually constructed from a metal frame, but it is designed to be covered with fabric. There are myriad fabric covers to choose from including lycra, satin, or polyester. Depending on your personal style and your budget, you’re sure to find the perfect cover for your event to ensure your guests are comfortable and impressed by your event’s décor.
Cross-back and English Garden Chairs
Cross-back chairs are designed with old-world appeal. They usually have a wood finish and a cross-back design making them a great option for an outdoor event with a rustic aesthetic. And still, despite their rustic appeal, cross-back chairs bring an undeniable element of elegance to any event. Sturdy and attractive are rarely elements that are combined in describing furniture, but cross-back chairs are just that.
English Garden chairs tend to be ornate. They are styled from wrought iron which ensures they have a distinctly vintage appeal. Nevertheless, they can be hard to come by and so they are usually very expensive to rent for an event. If budget isn’t a concern, English Garden chairs have a solid construction and truly beautiful design to elevate any tent event.
King Louis XVI and Ghost Chairs
King Louis XVI chairs have a very regal appearance. Inspired by the décor of French aristocracy, these distinguished chairs feature a large, oval-shaped back and plush cushioning on the seat and backrest. Often upholstered in velvet or linen, nothing says elegance and grace quite like the King Louis XVI chair.
A similar, more modern take on the King Louis XVI chair is the ghost chair. Also featuring an ovular backrest, ghost chairs are usually made of acrylic or lucite which gives them a more contemporary appeal. You can usually find these chairs in a variety of translucent colours, but if you really want to impress try the clear versions of ghost chairs which are virtually invisible to the eye. When guests sit on clear ghost chairs they appear to be suspended in the air – a truly magical illusion.
