Cross back chairs are popular wedding hire chairs partly because they are easy to decorate. This post covers eight ways to dress them for different wedding aesthetics.
Cross back chairs are popular wedding hire chairs partly because they are easy to decorate. This post covers eight ways to dress them for different wedding aesthetics.
Cross back chairs are popular at weddings partly because the open X-shaped back structure lends itself to decoration. A plain cross back chair looks well on its own; a dressed cross back chair adds detail to the overall table and ceremony aesthetic. Here are eight decoration approaches that work well.
A seat cushion is the most practical addition to a cross back chair; it adds comfort for long seated events and introduces a fabric element to the chair's natural wood finish. Cushions in ivory, stone, sage or dusty rose work well with the warm tones of natural wood. Match them to your tablecloths or napkins for a coordinated look. Hire cushions separately through your chair hire order.
Trailing greenery tucked into the back structure or tied at the top of the chair is one of the most natural-looking decoration approaches for cross back chairs. Eucalyptus, ivy, olive branches or seasonal foliage all work. This approach suits botanical-themed weddings and sits well with dried flower centrepieces and foliage table runners.
Small decorative wreaths, in dried flowers, greenery, or seasonal botanicals, hung over the top of the chair back add a circular element that contrasts with the angular lines of the cross back frame. These work best on ceremony chairs or on the chairs at the top table, where they are most visible in photographs.
A small posy or bunch of flowers tied to the back of the chair brings colour and fragrance. This decoration tends to be used on the aisle chairs for ceremony seating, marking the row ends and creating a visual path down the aisle. Use flowers that match or complement the bridal and table florals to keep the scheme cohesive.
A ribbon or fabric sash tied around the back of the chair is one of the simplest decoration approaches. It adds a soft, flowing element without obscuring the chair's structure. Organza, chiffon or velvet ribbon in a wedding colour works well. This approach suits ceremony chairs and top table chairs particularly, but can be used throughout for a dressed overall look.
Dried botanicals, including wheat, pampas grass, lavender bundles and dried seed heads, tied to the back of the chair work well for rustic and countryside weddings. The muted tones of dried plants complement the natural wood of cross back chairs without competing with fresh flowers. They are also more durable than fresh florals through a long day.
Macrame hangings, woven circles or knotted textile pieces attached to the chair back add a handcrafted texture that sits well with the rustic aesthetic of the cross back chair. These tend to be statement decorations used selectively, on the bride and groom's chairs or at the top table, rather than across every seat at the reception.
A long chiffon sash draped over the back of the chair and allowed to flow down creates an elegant, flowing effect that softens the chair's structure. White, ivory and blush chiffon work well for weddings. This approach is suited to formal reception settings and photographs well in both daylight and artificial light.
For coordination across the full table setting, hire chair covers, cushions and linen from the same supplier as your chairs. Expo Hire supplies cross back chairs alongside a full range of linen options for weddings across England and Wales.
What is the most popular decoration for cross back chairs at weddings?
Greenery and foliage, ribbon sashes and seat cushions are the most common choices. Each suits a slightly different aesthetic: foliage for botanical weddings, ribbons for classic weddings, cushions for comfort-focused setups.
Do cross back chair decorations affect the hire price?
The chair hire itself does not change based on decoration. Cushions are a separate hire item. Other decorations are typically sourced through your florist or wedding decorator rather than the chair hire company.
Can I add decorations to all chairs or just aisle chairs?
Both approaches are common. Aisle chairs and top table chairs are the most visible and are typically decorated more heavily. Reception dining chairs often have a simpler decoration, such as a cushion, sash or small floral element, applied uniformly.
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