The Dish on Dish Rentals: Why Renting Dinnerware is a Wedding Must
When it comes to planning your big day, there’s a lot to think about: the venue, the dress, the cake… and yes, the dishes.
Wait—dishes?
Yep. The plates, glasses, forks, and coffee cups might not be the most glamorous part of your wedding planning, but they’re absolutely essential—and they can make a surprisingly big impact on your event’s look and feel. That’s where dish rentals come in.
Whether you’re hosting a black-tie ballroom reception or a cozy backyard celebration, renting your tableware is one of the smartest, most stress-free decisions you can make. Here’s why.
Why Rent Instead of Buy (or Borrow)?
It’s Convenient.
Rental companies handle everything from delivery and pickup to washing and sanitizing.
It’s Stylish.
From vintage china to sleek modern place settings, renting gives you access to curated collections that elevate your tablescape. You’re not limited to basic white—you can match your aesthetic with different patterns, finishes, and textures.
It’s Eco-Friendly.
Renting reduces waste and avoids the cost and clutter of buying disposable or single-use dinnerware. It’s a sustainable choice without sacrificing style.
It’s Budget-Friendly.
Purchasing quality dinnerware for a large group can get expensive—and then you have to store it or sell it. Renting lets you choose exactly what you need, only for the time you need it.
What Can You Rent?
Here’s a quick checklist of common tableware rentals:
- Dinner plates
- Salad or appetizer plates
- Bread & butter plates
- Dessert plates
- Chargers (for added flair)
- Bowls (soup, salad, or cereal-style)
- Glassware (water goblets, wine glasses, champagne flutes, cocktail glasses)
- Flatware (forks, knives, spoons, serving utensils)
- Coffee mugs or teacups
- Serving pieces (platters, pitchers, cake servers)
You can even rent matching sets or mix-and-match styles for a more eclectic, personal feel.
Styling Tips: Setting the Table with Personality
Your dinnerware plays a big role in your wedding tablescape. It frames the food, adds texture, and pulls together your theme. Here’s how to make it pop:
- Go for gold flatware to add elegance and warmth.
- Choose colored glassware for a bold accent.
- Layer plates with charger bases or linen napkins for a luxe look.
- Add a personal touch with custom menus, place cards, or name tags.
Small details make a big impact when your guests sit down to dine.
How the Rental Process Works
Not sure how to get started? It’s easier than you think:
- Choose your pieces – Based on your guest count and menu (your caterer can help here).
- Request a quote – Rental companies will help you build a package that fits your budget.
- Coordinate delivery & pickup – They’ll bring everything to your venue and return for cleanup.
- Enjoy your event! – No washing, no storing—just stress-free celebrating.
Pro tip: Always rent a few extra place settings (about 10%) just in case of last-minute additions or mishaps.
Final Thoughts: Let the Details Shine
When people sit down at your reception, their first interaction with your wedding isn’t the food—it’s the presentation. The weight of the glass in their hand, the shine of the flatware, the beauty of the plate—it all sets the tone.
So don’t overlook the dishes. Let them be part of your love story, your style, and your celebration.
Because when the table is this beautiful, everything tastes a little more magical.
