Reception hall is too large: 3200 sq ft tent for 80-100 guests

Rectangle tables will help, but with your guest count it might still have a lot of space. Is there a way to maybe put in a placer to hide the extra space? Also, are you able to ask the venue to set it up for 100 guest to see what it could look like? The buffet setting could also take up space, along with the sweetheart, gift and cake table. Same thing with the DJ booth, it could take up more space. Will you all have a photo booth? Be sure to check with them if you plan to bring in additional furniture they might not allow it.

How you space out the tables will go a long way. My venue had the capacity for 260 guests and we only had 120. It did not look empty due to the way we placed the tables and the bar. Talk to your venue coordinator to figure out the best spacing!

Embrace and appreciate the negative space. If it has high ceilings get high centerpieces. Space the tables a bit further apart. Add focal points with small clusters of flowers


You'll be fine. A large space has its own beauty

I agree with the previous posters. When I had a big change in guest count, I brought in 2 bars to fill space and expedite drinks. This may be an option depending on your configuration. I'd discuss with the venue coordinator who would surely have more ideas. Don't forget to add the table to display your escort cards and favors, and perhaps renting pillars or tables for flower clusters. More space on the dance floor is always a good idea as people are more used to distancing with the pandemic.

Space it out! Our venue is also quite large and can fit something like 200 people. Our final count is looking closer to 85-90. To make up for the space, I’m having more tables with fewer people at them and spacing them out a bit more. That way it’s easier to move about the room, everyone has more room to sit and eat, and it doesn’t feel weird having all that negative space.


It means more centerpieces, but a much less crowded feel.

Your venue coordinator will likely be the one to go to on that issue. I'd imagine they've had lower guest counts before and would know a few ways to fill the space. One option would be to split the buffet table and stations throughout the room. If it's a two-sided buffet, you could have two buffet tables at opposite ends. More tables, a bigger dance floor, having separate tables for gifts, cards, guest book, etc., and/ or having them section off the room with draping, columns, or other elements could also work.

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I was going to suggest the same. In these (post-)Covid days, there are a lot of people who still appreciate social distancing. Spacing out tables, and maybe providing a few extra, will allow people to feel more comfortable. In my opinion, at least!

Yes I will say using some lounge furniture and then the rectangular tables with fill the space spread out the foot stations a photobooth may be better than games it depends on the games. Because some may not fill that it's a wedding but if you think that it will be a hit go for it. Along with a beverage station with coffee, teas and then 1 with a bar and dance your hearts away have fun. I hope that it turns out how you wanted. Happy planning