When planning an outdoor event, seating has a much bigger impact than many people expect. The right seating helps shape the atmosphere, improves guest comfort and makes your event space feel more inviting from the moment people arrive.
Whether you are organising a corporate summer party, public screening, university event, festival or private celebration, choosing the right mix of seating can make the space feel more relaxed, practical and visually appealing.
Some of the most popular options for outdoor events include deckchairs, giant deckchairs and bean bags. Each works slightly differently, and the best choice often depends on the style of event you are planning.
Why seating matters at outdoor events
Outdoor spaces can feel empty or underused if there is nowhere comfortable for guests to sit and spend time. Seating helps define how people use the space. It creates natural gathering points, encourages guests to stay longer and can even make an event look more polished in photographs.
For events with longer dwell times, such as screenings, staff parties or festivals, seating is especially important.
When bean bag hire works best
Bean bags are ideal for events where you want a more informal, lounge-style feel. They work particularly well for:
- outdoor cinema events
- festival chillout zones
- student and university events
- brand activations
- casual summer parties
- family-friendly events
- weddings
Bean bags are useful when you want guests to relax, spread out and use the space in a less structured way. They are especially effective for events where comfort and atmosphere matter just as much as practicality.
When giant deckchair hire is the better choice
Giant deckchairs are a strong option when you want the seating to double as a visual feature. They are larger than standard deckchairs and often work well as statement pieces at:
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festivals
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branded activations
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promotional events
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weddings
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outdoor receptions
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sports screenings
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summer parties
They can be used as photo opportunities, branded focal points or simply to add more personality to an outdoor event setup.
For organisers looking to create impact as well as seating, giant deckchair hire is often one of the easiest ways to make a space feel more fun and memorable.
Standard deckchairs for classic outdoor seating
Standard deckchairs remain one of the most versatile event seating options. They are suitable for a wide range of events, including corporate events, festivals, screenings, garden parties and hospitality areas.
They offer a more structured seating option than bean bags while still keeping the relaxed outdoor feel that many organisers want.
If you are targeting local event searches, this is also a useful place to reinforce your regional service pages.
Choosing the right seating mix
For many events, the best solution is not one seating type but a combination. For example:
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bean bags for lounge areas
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giant deckchairs for visual impact
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standard deckchairs for general guest seating
This gives guests more choice while also helping you create a space that looks more considered and complete.
Our final thoughts
If you are planning an outdoor event, seating should be part of the design from the start rather than an afterthought. Bean bags, giant deckchairs and standard deckchairs all offer different benefits, and the right combination can improve both the look and feel of the event.
Whether you are creating a chill-out area, a branded activation space or a relaxed seating zone for a screening or celebration, choosing the right hire furniture can make all the difference.
FAQ
What is the best seating for an outdoor event?
The best seating depends on the type of event. Bean bags suit relaxed lounge areas, giant deckchairs add visual impact, and standard deckchairs are ideal for versatile general seating.
Are bean bags good for event hire?
Yes. Bean bags are popular for festivals, screenings, student events and casual corporate gatherings.
What are giant deckchairs used for at events?
Giant deckchairs are often used for statement seating, branded activations, photo opportunities and outdoor guest areas.
Can I hire deckchairs in Leeds or London?
Yes. Deckchairs are a popular hire option for events in both Leeds and London. We deliver nationwide across the UK.
