Wedding seating plays a bigger role in event design than most people expect. Chairs influence the overall aesthetic, affect guest comfort, and help define whether a space feels classic, relaxed, or modern. With so many styles available, choosing the right option can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down three of the most popular wedding chair rentals—Chiavari, Cross Back, and Ghost—so you can decide which style best fits your venue, guest list, and design vision.

Chiavari Chairs: Classic and Versatile

Chiavari chairs are a staple in wedding seating for a reason. Their slim silhouette and elegant profile work beautifully across a wide range of styles, from traditional ballroom weddings to outdoor garden ceremonies.

Our Chiavari chair rentals are available in Black, Fruitwood, Gold, Sage, and White, making them easy to match with your color palette and overall aesthetic. Gold Chiavari chairs bring formal elegance to indoor receptions, while Fruitwood and Sage feel warm and organic for outdoor settings. White Chiavari chairs are especially popular for spring and summer weddings where a clean, airy look is key.

If you’re wondering what chair style works best for outdoor weddings, Chiavari chairs are often a safe and stylish choice. Their lightweight design makes them easy to place on grass, patios, or tented spaces, and they photograph beautifully from every angle.

Cross Back Chairs: Warm and Inviting

Cross Back chairs offer a more relaxed feel without sacrificing sophistication. Their curved backs and wood tones create a welcoming atmosphere that works especially well for vineyard weddings, barn venues, and outdoor receptions.

Our Cross Back chair rentals are a favorite for couples who want seating that feels intentional but not overly formal. For similar looks with added flexibility, other wood alternatives include the Fruitwood Folding Chair or the more refined Harlin Dining Chair. These offer a slightly elevated profile while maintaining warmth and comfort.

These styles are ideal for long receptions and dinner-focused celebrations where guests will be seated for extended periods. The natural wood tones also pair effortlessly with farm tables, breezy runners, and candlelit centerpieces.

Ghost Chairs: Modern and Minimal

For couples drawn to clean lines and contemporary design, Ghost chairs offer a striking alternative to traditional wedding seating. Made from clear acrylic, these chairs blend seamlessly into their surroundings, allowing florals, linens, and architecture to take center stage.

We offer several Ghost chair options depending on your needs. The Acrylic Carrigan Side Chair is an ethereal option that works well for both ceremonies and receptions. The Acrylic Ghost Arm Chair is typically better suited for receptions, head tables, or sweetheart tables. When guests are seated longer, they appreciate the added support of armrests. For ceremonies, the Acrylic Ghost Armless Chair is a popular choice thanks to its sleek profile and unobstructed look.

A common concern we hear is, are ghost chairs comfortable for guests? While they may look minimal, they are designed for stability and comfort, especially for ceremony seating or shorter seated moments.

Mixing Chair Styles Thoughtfully

Not every wedding needs to use a single chair style throughout. Many couples mix seating intentionally—for example, Ghost chairs for the ceremony and Chiavari or Cross Back chairs for the reception. This approach allows you to tailor each space to its purpose while still maintaining a cohesive design. The key is consistency in tone. Mixing works best when styles share a common thread, such as color, material, or overall formality level.

Planning Your Wedding Seating

Another common question is, how many chairs do I need for a wedding? A good rule of thumb is one chair per guest for the ceremony, plus a small buffer for unexpected additions. If your ceremony and reception are in the same space, your seating plan may be more streamlined. If they’re separate, you may need chairs for both areas, depending on the layout and timing.

Your venue size, layout, and guest flow all play a role in determining the right seating strategy. This is where working with an experienced rental team can help simplify decisions and avoid last-minute surprises.

Choosing Wedding Chair Rentals that Fit Your Vision

The best wedding seating doesn’t just look good—it supports how your day unfolds. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of Chiavari chairs, the warmth of Cross Back seating, or the modern edge of Ghost chairs, the right choice will complement your venue and elevate the guest experience. If you’d like help selecting the right wedding chair rentals for your celebration, our team is always happy to guide you. Reach out today!

Nashville, with its picturesque countryside and rustic charm, provides the perfect backdrop for a whimsical farm wedding. Whether you’re opting for the green spaces of rural Nashville or transforming your own backyard, there’s an abundance of opportunities to infuse your special day with vibrant colors, vintage charm, and a touch of Southern hospitality. Explore our stunning rentals, plus event design tips, for inspiration on how to host a modern farm wedding that will leave your family and friends in awe.

Lush Outdoor Ceremony Ideas

There’s something truly magical about exchanging vows surrounded by the beauty of nature. Make the most of the beautiful weather and seasonal foliage by hosting your ceremony outdoors. Start by embracing the farm wedding aesthetic when you feature wooden chairs for seating, adding a touch of rustic charm to your setting. Both our Harlin Dining and Cross-Back Chairs are an elegant choice. Further, create a homey and eclectic atmosphere, by lining the aisle with layered, mismatched vintage rugs. This unexpected detail adds warmth and personality to your ceremony space. As a result, guests will feel right at home amidst the natural beauty of the outdoors. Do you need a backdrop rental? Consider our classic Wood Cross or the elegant Fiona Ivory Mantle – a stunner decorated with colorful florals!

Design a Cozy Backyard Cocktail Hour

After your ceremony, transition seamlessly into a cozy backyard cocktail hour. Whether adjacent to a barn wedding venue or in your own backyard, this is the perfect opportunity to relax and celebrate. Start by setting the scene with our whiskey barrel bar and charming vintage-inspired glassware. Choose from an array of beautiful colors to complement your theme. For example, some of the most popular options include the Savoy Green and Amalia Light Pink Goblets.

If you want to provide a unique interactive experience, treat your guests to a build-your-own bouquet station. Using our Market Cart, this is a delightful wedding favor that adds a personal touch to your day. If the weather is looking particularly sunny or breezy, consider renting a tent. Providing shade and relief for your guests will ensure everyone stays comfortable throughout the festivities. Weather permitting, you might also provide cozy lounge areas.

Host a Forest Wedding Reception

As the sun begins to set, transition into a forest wedding reception that feels both intimate and enchanting. Feature several of our long wood banquet tables placed end-to-end. Such as the Aged Oak or Fruitwood Farm Dining Tables. Showcase yet soften the wood tabletop with romantic Sahara Table Runners, topped with elegant china and colorful floral centerpieces. When creating your place settings, mix and match modern and rustic pieces. For example, you might stack our Rattan White Wash Charger and Earthen Alabaster China. If you want to lean into the vintage aesthetic, our mismatched Heirloom or Emmie Floral China are a charming choice.

For seating, Clear Ghost Arm Chairs are a modern yet ethereal seating option. They will lend a touch of contemporary flair to your rustic tablescape. With string lights overhead, watch as the forest comes alive with a warm glow, creating a truly mesmerizing atmosphere for you and your guests to enjoy well into the night.

Your whimsical farm wedding in Nashville is sure to be an unforgettable experience for all who attend. At Southern Events, we’re dedicated to helping you bring your vision to life with our extensive selection of rentals and expert event design services. Contact us today to start planning the wedding of your dreams or to book an appointment at our showroom!