Way to fill space in ballroom?

futuremrsgates

My reception is being held in a ballroom that fits max 300 people - but we only have 150! Our planner is putting a few extra cocktail tables by the dance floor and we have a photo booth, but I was wondering if you guys have any ideas for anything else I could have? Our wedding theme is literature and vintageness, so I've suggest a fortune teller or something. Any other suggestions?

amberr110

In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/wedding-boards_reception-ideas_way-to-fill-space-in-ballroom?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Wedding%20BoardsForum:5Discussion:0e355c37-d0b4-40e7-850a-70d43b2de49cPost:b1f7e9e5-ee6e-47e7-84c9-0d356a99c6e9">Re: Way to fill space in ballroom?</a>:
[QUOTE] There is nothing wrong with empty space.
Posted by cfaszews25[/QUOTE]

<div>This.  </div><div>At our wedding, we had 150 in a room that could seat 250 (so not too far off from what you're talking about) and it felt fine.  Sure there was plenty of space to move around, but it certainly didn't feel empty. </div><div>Also, I think that at many venues, when your guest attendance is close to max cap it is far too tight.  I attended a wedding a few months ago where we could barely move because the tables were so close together.  I found out later from one of the BM that there had been an additional 80 people invited who declined.  Knowing this bride, I am sure she wouldn't have invited more than the venue said it could hold.  </div><div>
</div><div>Edited : to make sense</div>

brianna.iott

You could try to space out your 'accessory' tables more, instead of combining the escort card table with the gift table make them two seperate tables and add some themed decor.  We're going to have a table just for framed wedding photos of our parents and grandparents too.  I also agree with previous posters that there's nothing wrong with extra space!

QueerFemme

I agree with the no fortune teller thing.    I would ask the venue if they can close off or screen a portion of the ballroom.  But, I am also in the "don't worry about it" camp.   150 people will not look empty.

futuremrsgates

Thanks! I suggested a lounge area but got a frowny face from the FI

firstmatelh

You can't go wrong with a larger dance floor.  It's nice to have space to move around in.

kks4471

My venue could hold 300 guests, and we only had 80 guests.  Yes, there was some empty space between the last row of tables and the bar.  Honestly though, I don't think a single guest cared.  If they complain about having too much space, there's something wrong with them lol.  Don't worry about fillers, your space will be fine.

LeiselEB

I'd have a large dance floor, plenty of space between tables, and see how much room you've got left at that point. If you really think it's too empty, the extra cocktail tables and maybe a separate lounge area would be nice. 

It's okay not to pack the room with stuff

spartybride3

We had a similar issue. We did a mix of square & round tables and made the dance floor bigger with a cocktail table at each corner. Sit fewer people at a table (8-10) as well. We also had a lounge area with a couch, 2 chairs, and a coffee like table. Our late night snack, coffee bar, and gift table also took up extra space.