My favorite part of the wedding decor process? Picking out the chairs! Chair selection is often defaulted to what comes with the venue, and we get it, that’s budget friendly. But, this overlooked detail is actually so crucial to nailing your wedding aesthetic! Choosing the right chair to match your decor has the power to transform your event from a forgettable dinner to a full-on experience. You could have the most beautifully curated event, but the wrong chair can change the whole vibe, and usually not in a good way. We’ve made a list of the most popular chairs available to rent for your big day below!
Folding Chairs
Padded Resin:
If your venue offers only one chair, we’re willing to bet it’s this one! This simple, yet comfortable chair works great for ceremonies, but they might not be formal enough for most receptions. They’re mostly seen in white, but also come in black, natural wood, and a darker fruitwood.
Bistro:
If looking at this style makes you imagine sitting in a Parisian garden basking in the sun, you’re onto something because that’s exactly where they gained popularity. They date back to 1889 and are known for being durable, yet lightweight enough to move around easily. Just beware of metal versions of these getting too hot in the sun!
Rattan:
These are enough to melt any boho bride’s heart! Part of the palm plant family, rattan feels tropical-vacation inspired, and gives off major 70s vibes. It would pair really well with pampas grass or macrame decor.
Classic Chairs
Chiavari:
This is probably the most popular chair in the wedding biz! Named for the Italian town where they were created, the Chiavari chairs are the most affordable chair upgrade, and most venues have them in stock. Available in multiple different materials, you normally see them in silver, gold, or dark brown. These look best with a seat cushion!
Bentwood:
You’ve probably seen these chic chairs in coffee shops and cafes. They hail from the 19th century after German/Austrian designer, Michael Thonet, perfected the art of bending the wood (aka bentwood). They work with or without seat cushions, so can save a few pennies there!
Crossback:
Also called vineyard chairs, this simple, yet elegant, design gained fame in 20th century French bistros. These can also be found with a rattan seat that give more of a rustic, farmhouse feel, and usually come in dark or natural wood, or painted white. Again, seat cushion not required!
Modern Chairs
Wishbone:
Okay, you know these are cool if Hailey Baldwin had them at her reception (that's her reception in the picture above)! Danish designer Hans Wegners created this iconic chair in 1949, but Scandinavian design is definitely having a moment now. The clean design allows it to be used for multiple themes and locations, and is found in black and white.
Marais:
This classic chair was created in 1934 by French furniture maker Xavier Pauchard, who was the first to utilize the galvanization technique, which protects pieces from rusting by coating the material in molten zinc. Made to survive in all weather conditions (the holes on the seat are to prevent rain from pooling), they became popular among, shock, French cafes! These chairs have a way of feeling industrial, yet retro at the same time, so can blend well with most themes. Found in the typical silver, but also in white, copper, and even some pastel shades.
Ghost:
The original design of this lucite chair had armrests, was directly inspired by the Louis XVI style chairs and is fairly young, having only been released in 2002 by Phillippe Starck. This armless version is the more popular option for events, as well as home decor. Given their clear material, they match any decor. Also great for small spaces as their see-through effect makes any room appear larger!
Masters:
Another Phillippe Starck creation, this 2005 design combines three separate silhouettes by other design industry “masters”, hence the name. Sleek, modern, and durable, this chair will bring a geometric element to your decor. Seen in black, white, and primary colors.
Glam Chairs
Louis:
Made popular during the reign of King Louis XVI (hence the name), these oval-back chairs are as fancy as they come. They also come in cane-back, perfect for beach-inspired events. If you don’t want to splurge on these for all your guests, add a hint of regal by using them only for your head table!
Infinity:
Also referred to as the Phoenix chair, this simple design is basically a modern version of the Chiavari. This design can be found in painted wood and acrylic versions. You can add extra charm by draping tulle through the holes!
Chameleon Fanfare:
Typically just referred to as the Chameleon chair, Chameleon is actually the brand and Fanfare is this specific style. They come in an array of colors, with almost every color cushion you could imagine, making them super versatile! If interested in these chairs, go to the Chameleon Chairs website to find a vendor near your event that carries them.
Any of these pretty babies catch your eye? Let me know in the comments!