[5 TIPS – HOW TO KEEP GUESTS ENTERTAINED] With Long Tables
A MORE FORMAL EVENING
Seating for formal dinners can be arranged in many ways. Individual tables of ten seated, rows of tables and even large round tables seating 60, by far the style I see less often but is actually worth considering – TWO LONG TABLES ACCOMODATING 35 SEATED AT EACH.
The reason for todays blog? – I recently performed at just such a function – The Ned London (link details below) and it was amazing! Below I will break down 5 tips on what to think about to HELP YOUR EVENT RUN SMOOTHLY, BE EXCITING AND MEMORABLE.




Seating Plans
Make sure it is clear where everyone is seated. Having a large table plan at the entrance of the room is a good idea but most importantly, on the table the guests name clearly marked will mean everyone can be seated quickly without confusion.
Relax
Be prepared for a format like this to become a little ‘looser’ than you might expect. With large numbers people will want to mingle a little so allow them to move positions and don’t worry too much. This tends to happen after the mains are finished and actually blends nicely into the latter evening section of the event.
Keep The Table Layout Simple
Guests will be sat on either side of one table or facing each other across the room. If you fill the table with a lot of decoration it creates virtual noise and people can’t see each other or interact easily.


Entertainment
It would of course be remise of me not to mention what I can offer. Entertainment is very important. You might think performing to large tables like this is difficult but it really makes a wonderful setting for me too.
I break down the table into sections and perform to smaller groups.
Starting at the end of the first table I will command the attention of around 8 guests, perform some amazing magic and then move over to the second table, again starting at one end. Moving to the middle of the first table, zig-zagging my way around until all have seen incredible magic and had fun at the same time. You will find that people further down the table will be watching and commenting to others and before long the energy in the room is lifted and everyone is really enjoying seeing incredible magic. My style means everybody really does get to see a lot of magic.
Finally...The Venue
If you hadn’t already considered long tables, maybe you do now. Check with the venue for dining options, if they do not already offer this style, they may on your request be able to consider your needs. I highly recommend The Ned London, details below.