Wedding Chair Rentals in Ottawa: Chiavari Chairs vs. Chair Covers vs. Bridal Chaise (2026 Guide)
Ask any wedding planner what guests notice first when they walk into a reception, and most will say the same thing: the chairs. Seating isn't just functional — it's one of the biggest visual footprints in the entire room. Multiply one chair style across 100+ guests, and the choice you make can completely change the feel of your event.
At Event Rentals Ottawa, chairs are consistently our most-booked category — and for good reason. Here's how to choose the right seating style for your wedding or event, and what makes each option worth considering.
Why Chairs Matter More Than People Think
Unlike a centerpiece that sits on one table, chairs repeat throughout the entire room. A mismatched or dated chair style can make an otherwise beautifully decorated venue feel unfinished, while the right chair ties the whole room together — in every photo, from every angle.
That's why so many Ottawa couples treat chair selection as a core decor decision, not an afterthought.
Option 1: Chiavari Chairs — The Timeless Classic
Our wedding chairs collection is built around the Chiavari style, and it remains the most requested seating option for Ottawa weddings.
Why couples love them:
- Slim, elegant frame that photographs beautifully
- Available in gold, silver, clear, and other finishes to match any color palette
- Works for both indoor ballrooms and outdoor tented receptions
- No cover needed — the chair itself is the decor
Best for: Couples who want a polished, upscale look without adding another rental layer (like a chair cover) on top.
Option 2: Chair Covers — Budget-Friendly & Transformative
If your venue's existing chairs aren't quite right — think banquet-hall stacking chairs — chair covers are the most cost-effective way to transform the room instantly.
Why couples love them:
- Hides mismatched or worn venue chairs completely
- Pairs with a sash or bow to tie in your wedding colors
- More affordable per chair than swapping in an entirely new chair style
- Great option for large guest counts where budget matters
Best for: Couples renting a venue that supplies its own chairs, or anyone looking to maximize visual impact on a tighter budget.
Option 3: Bridal Chaise — For the Bride & Groom's Moment
Our Bridal Chaise is a showpiece rental — not for the full guest list, but for the head table or a dedicated lounge moment for the couple.
Why couples love them:
- Creates a stunning focal point for photos
- Elevates the head table or sweetheart table above standard seating
- Adds a touch of luxury without needing to upgrade every chair in the room
Best for: Couples who want one standout seating moment — for photos, the head table, or a lounge-style reception corner — while keeping standard chairs for guest seating.
How to Decide: A Quick Comparison
| Style | Look | Budget | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chiavari Chairs | Elegant, timeless | Mid-range | Full-room upgrade, indoor & outdoor |
| Chair Covers | Transformative | Most budget-friendly | Hiding venue chairs, large guest counts |
| Bridal Chaise | Statement piece | Add-on cost | Head table or photo moment |
Many Ottawa couples actually combine two of these — for example, Chiavari chairs for guest tables paired with a Bridal Chaise at the head table, or chair covers throughout with a Chiavari-style chair reserved for the couple.
Styling Tips from Our Team
- Match metals, not just colors. If your charger plates and candelabras are gold, gold Chiavari chairs (or gold sashes on covers) tie the room together.
- Consider your flooring and lighting. Clear Chiavari chairs work beautifully in bright, airy venues, while gold or silver tones show up better under warm, low lighting.
- Don't forget outdoor events. Chiavari chairs hold up well on patios and under tents, making them a favorite for Ottawa's backyard and garden wedding season.
- Book early. Chair rentals — especially Chiavari styles — are our highest-demand item, and popular finishes can sell out during peak wedding season (May–October).
Rent Your Chairs with Confidence
Whichever style fits your vision, our team can help you calculate exactly how many chairs, covers, or chaise pieces you'll need based on your guest count and floor plan — plus coordinate delivery, setup, and pickup so you don't have to lift a finger on the big day.
Browse Wedding Chair Rentals → Browse Chair Covers → Browse the Bridal Chaise →
📍 15B-2000 Thurston Drive, Ottawa, ON K1G 4K7 📞 (613) 737-5555
Once your seating is sorted, complete the look with our guide to styling reception tables with linens, napkins, and charger plates, or check out how much wedding decor rentals cost in Ottawa to plan your full budget