High Chairs and Baby Stations at Events: What to Plan

At most family events, there is a baby or two. Parents often go without eating because there is no safe place for the child to sit, and a crying baby near the dance floor means a parent misses the toast. Offering a high chair and a baby station is a small thing that shows guests you thought of them. This guide covers counts, setup and etiquette for events in the Chicago area.

How many high chairs do you need?

Count the babies and toddlers on the guest list, then add a small buffer. Ask on the RSVP card, or ask parents directly, since most families bring a portable booster or a car seat carrier and may not need one.

These are rough planning numbers, and your guest list matters more than the average. A family-heavy reception needs more, and an adults-only event needs none. For children old enough to sit alone, see kids tables and chairs for events.

Where to seat the high chairs

Put high chairs at the end of a table, not between guests, with room for a parent beside the child. Keep them away from the dance floor, speakers and the buffet line, and near an aisle so parents can leave quickly if the baby needs to step out. A spot near the restrooms or the baby station is ideal.

What to put in a baby station

A baby station is a quiet, private corner for feeding, changing and calming. It is a thoughtful addition at weddings, christenings, baby showers and family reunions.

1. Changing surface. A sturdy table with a clean cover, or ask the venue if there is a built-in changing table.
2. Comfortable chair. An armchair or a settee for feeding, ideally with a small side table.
3. Supplies basket. Wipes, diapers in a few sizes, hand sanitizer and a trash can with a lid.
4. Privacy. A screen, curtain or a separate room.
5. Bottle warmer or hot water access, if the venue allows.
6. Soft light and sound, away from the music.

If the venue has a lounge or bridal suite, a corner of that works well. Otherwise, rent a screen and a few pieces of lounge furniture. See lounge furniture for cocktail hour for pieces that work here.

Safety

• Use only the straps and trays that came with the chair. Fasten the harness every time.
• Check stability. High chairs should have a wide base, and never be placed on uneven ground or a platform.
• Keep hot items away. Candles, coffee and centerpieces should be out of reach.
• Choose cleanable models. Wipeable trays and seats save a lot of mess.
• Ask the rental company about the safety standard their chairs meet and whether they are cleaned between rentals.

Chicago-specific tips

Winter weddings mean snowsuits, bundled babies and strollers at the door. Plan extra room for coats and strollers near the baby station, and see coat racks for winter events. At outdoor summer events, give babies shade and a cool spot, since heat affects them quickly. For park pavilions or forest preserves, check what facilities exist before the day.

A short plan

Make room for every guest

Book a free 15-minute seating call to include high chairs, kids tables and lounge space in your plan, or request a quote.