Expert Advice: Lounge Furniture

There are so many amazing options available now to make your wedding reception unique and different! What used to be a question of what table will your guests be sitting at and what color the linen will be, can now fall into what type of table are the guests sitting at and does it even have a linen, is there a glass top, are there chairs or is it a sofa? From seating your guests at banquettes for dinner or adding couches to the dancing portion of the reception, we have seen lounge furniture make its way into wedding receptions often here in South Florida, and we are loving it! The idea of coming up with unique seating ideas can be a bit daunting at first, so we asked an area expert for some advice. Amy Kong with AFR Event Furnishings was sweet enough to answer some of our questions and give you a few great ideas for adding lounge pieces to your wedding!

Photo by Jemma Coleman Photography

In the past few years we have certainly seen an increase in couples adding lounge furniture to their weddings. What would you suggest is the most budget friendly way to add on some pieces to your reception?

I would recommend utilizing ottomans as often as possible. Ottomans are typically available in various shapes, size, and style and are quite versatile (they can be used for seating or as tables). Additionally, they are a much more cost effective rental item compared to sofas and loveseats. Also, always keep your guests in mind when making these decisions! An older crowd might prefer traditional chairs or seating with backs and not want to sit on a couch during dinner. All of theses items can be mixed into a grouping with ottomans.

Photo by Joseph Vincent Photography

What trends are you seeing with incorporating furniture for wedding receptions?

People seem to be more interested in unique wedding receptions, there is not a "normal" reception anymore. Every couple has their priorities, whether it's to impress their guests, maintain budgets, or both. Lounge furniture can be a great option for these couples! Rather then have a full sit down dinner have a cocktail reception and opt for a heavy hors d'oeuvres instead. This can help alleviate costs and create an atmosphere that encourages guests to mingle with everyone and relax. Couches and ottomans can be added to create a space that is both intimate and sophisticated. Now often nixing a sit down dinner is not an option for everyone. We are seeing couples starting to request unique tablescapes for dinner service. I would recommend mixing in soft seating options and/or tables that are not the typical 72" banquet round.

Couples are taking the opportunity to extend their special day by adding an after party, post reception. Typically, this is in a separate room where the bride and groom are looking for a fun and lively atmosphere where they can dance with their favorite people in the world. Couples love utilizing furniture to create a club-like atmosphere to these events.

Photo by Bee Photographie

Photo of dinner table by Creative Focus Inc.

What other ways would you suggest to incorporate furniture into a wedding reception other then just couches {which is often what people think of first!}. What are some of your favorite ideas you would suggest?

Specialty chairs for bride and groom at the Sweetheart or Head Table. Food and beverage displays, such as a nice buffet tables and bars are popular. We love when a couple is looking for a fun idea. I've seen bars used for make your own cupcake stations and tiered glow cubes used as a dessert table. The options are endless, just be creative!

Photo of dinner table by Kalia Lily Photography

What is the price range of furniture rentals?

Furniture encompasses a wide variety of products, from a single dining chair to a lounge-style bed for 12 guests. It's difficult to estimate the cost of furniture, as there are different needs for each wedding. For a traditional lounge grouping (1 sofa, 2 chairs, 1 coffee table), prices can range from $600-$1,100. It's important to communicate your priorities, vision and concerns with a professional so they can make custom recommendations that are suitable for your special day.

What areas of Florida do you service?

We have 2 offices in Florida, one in Miami and another in Orlando. Between both offices, we service all of Florida.

How can you personalize lounge options in a couple's wedding?

Customized accent pillows are a simple way to personalize a lounge grouping. You can select fitting colors, or even request to have a your monogram embroidered into pillows. The furniture vendor you’re working with might have a few unique options. AFR has a Waterfall wall where couples can use as a step and repeat or for table assignments. Like all furniture, event furniture pieces can take on a completely different look depending on the venue, lighting, and other décor elements. Keep an open mind when particular pieces are recommended.

Thanks again to AFR Event Furnishings for stopping by with the advice. We hope this great advice is helpful and gave you a few ideas! All items above are from AFR Event Furnishings, Nuage Designs and Unearthed Vintage Rentals.

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