Face it, making aunt Gail sit next to your crazy uncle Sam will stir things up at your wedding, and not in a good way. After all, it is a known fact that these two can’t stand each other; especially since uncle Sam accidentally put a huge dent in Aunt Gail’s brand new car last Christmas…
Planning your wedding seating is essential to creating an easy flow of conversation without making anyone feel unusually uncomfortable. Since they are there to enjoy your wedding day with you, there is no need to dampen their spirits by making them sit next to someone they just can’t seem to strike up a conversation with. You won’t be able to satisfy everyone, but at least you can tactfully create tables where people with similar interest can enjoy hearty conversations or two without grabbing each other at the throat… Use the following tips when planning your wedding seating list and keep while keeping in mind the number of guests that will be attending your ceremony!
TIP#1
Start your seating plan early as it’ll take longer than you think. Don’t leave it until the week before!
TIP#2
Table numbers can imply a hierarchy so think about using table names instead.
TIP#3
Make a large seating chart which shows everyone which table they are at to save having to check each table.
TIP#4
If you are having a large wedding consider having two seating charts to avoid large a crowd blocking the doorway.
TIP#5
If you’re having a buffet or small informal event, don’t feel you need to have a seating plan.
TIP#6
If there’s a choice of meal, make each guest’s choice on their place card to help the waiting staff.
TIP#7
Don’t use your seating plan to try and match-make single guests. It’ll be obvious and they won’t thank you for it!
TIP#8
Always sit younger children with their parents but consider a separate table to place older children together.
TIP#9
Consider putting crayons and coloring books on tables to keep your younger guests entertained.
TIP#10
Make sure elderly guests are seated near enough to hear any speeches. Don’t place them too near loud speakers though!
TIP#11
Think about who needs to access to lavatories/more space at the table – young children, wheelchair users and pregnant ladies.
TIP#12
If the bride or groom’s parents are divorced you may need to make sure they are not seated near each other!
TIP#13
Try to keep groups together where you can – family, friends and work colleagues.
TIP#14
If at all possible don’t separate couples even if only one of them is a bridesmaid or usher.
TIP#15
Really try and think who about who will get on best together – that is the ultimate aim!
TIP#16
Make sure that everyone knows at least one other person at their table.
TIP#17
Think about the family dynamic and avoid putting people together who you know will argue!
TIP#18
Avoid having a table of leftover people who don’t fit anywhere else. It is better to mix them across all tables.
TIP#19
Consider assigning guests just to tables rather than actual seats if you feel it would work.
TIP#20
Make sure the tables closest to the top/head table are reserved for close friends and family.