What Exactly Is A Seating Plan?
An event has a seating plan or table layout when each table in the reception hall is numbered or named, and guests are assigned to sit at a specific table for dinner. Traditionally, small cards called table cards or escort cards with each guest’s name and assigned table are arranged in alphabetical order by last name on a table in the cocktail reception area so guests can determine the table at which they are seated. Alternatively, the tables and guest names may be listed on a large poster that guests can consult. Some brides also frame a map of the reception hall showing the approximate location of each table, along with its number or name. Once guests enter the reception hall for dinner, table identifiers placed on each table show them where they are to be seated. Placecards assigning each guest to a particular seat at the table may or may not be used. If they are used, the placecard is placed at the top of each place setting.

Whew! Sounds like a lot of work, right? It is, but if a table layout is done correctly, it can be a definite “Do” for your wedding. Consider this:

• It is easy for guests: they will not have to worry about finding a seat or wonder exactly who is supposed to sit at the two reserved tables.
• It’s a great way to be creative and showcase elements of your wedding theme.
• It lends an air of formality to the wedding, which is especially nice for a dinner (sit-down or buffet).

Guidelines For A Successful Seating Plan

• You must have a seat for every guest. If you are afraid that guests who have not RSVP’d will come anyway, a seating plan may not be the best choice for your wedding.
• Be thoughtful about where you place your guests. Try to group people together who have similar interests. Don’t seat your bridal party’s dates separately from them. And please, avoid the dreaded “singles table”!
• Let each set of parents preside over their own table. They would probably prefer to sit with their friends and family members on this special day. (This also eliminates potential stepparent issues.)
• You don’t have to have the same number of people at each table. Even if your tables can seat up to ten, don’t be afraid to assign only seven or eight guests to a few tables if it makes sense for your groups.
• Don’t feel obligated to use placecards; in most cases they are unnecessary. Your guests are already grouped the way you want them to be grouped, so let them feel a modicum of control.
• As the RSVPs come in, write each person’s name on a sticky note flag and set it aside. Once you have a map of the room from your venue, use the sticky notes to arrange the guests at their tables on your map.

It Might Be A Don’t
Don’t feel as though you must use a seating plan. There are several instances in which it is not the best option:

• A cocktail or afternoon reception where only hors d’ouevres and cake are being served. This is a situation where mixing and mingling are encouraged, and there are not enough seats for every guest.
• When many of your guests are not acquainted with each other. It can be awkward and uncomfortable to make small talk with strangers at a table for an hour or more.
• If it’s causing family arguments regarding who sits where and whose table is in a better location. It’s supposed to result in less stress, not more stress!

This article is the first in a three-part series.