How many guests per round table?

Standard 5-foot (150cm) round tables seat 8 comfortably or 10 at a squeeze. 4-foot (120cm) rounds seat 6. For a formal dinner with lots of tableware, reduce by 1-2 seats. For a casual buffet, you can add an extra seat since place settings are simpler.

Do I need a seating plan?

For formal events, weddings, and sit-down meals - yes, a seating plan avoids awkwardness and ensures tables are balanced. For casual parties with 30+ guests - a loose plan helps. For small casual gatherings under 20 - free seating usually works fine.

A top table is the main table at a wedding or formal event where the hosts and VIPs sit. Traditional wedding top tables seat 6-12 (bride, groom, parents, best man, maid of honour). Modern alternatives include a sweetheart table for just the couple.

How do I handle odd numbers?

It is normal to have some tables with one fewer guest. Avoid tables with only 2-3 people - combine smaller groups. If you have a few empty seats, spread them across tables rather than leaving one table half-empty.

PartyCalcs

Seating Plan Calculator — Table Arrangements

Work out table arrangements and the number of tables needed for your guests.

Total Guests

Table Type & Size

Top Table Size (optional)

How We Calculate This

This calculator works out how many tables you need based on guest count and table size.

Formula

Remaining guests = total guests - top table size
Tables needed = remaining guests / seats per table (rounded up)
Total seats = (tables x seats per table) + top table
Empty seats = total seats - total guests

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Adjust quantities based on your guests and event type.