As an artist and designer, one of the things I most love seeing at weddings is the creative and beautiful ways brides and planners have come up with display table names and numbers and seating charts. It is, of course, totally up to you whether or not you want to have assigned seating at your wedding. A few reasons most brides do it: 1 – it makes sure each table is filled to capacity 2 – it takes the pressure off of guests 3 – it can help catering staff if you are having dinner service.
Here are a few things I have learned to keep in mind when assigning seating at your event:
Understand your table shape and how many seats are at each table.
Will your venue be providing tables or will you be renting? It is important to first understand what tables you will have. Round, rectangle oval or square? You can fit more rectangle tables in a space and it will be easier for guests to talk across tables. Round tables are probably the most popular wedding option and will give guests lots of leg room.
Think of the wedding party seating.
If you aren’t having a sweetheart table, seat your wedding party (and their guests if there is room) at your table to acknowledge their importance and for support.
Where will the parents sit?
The bride and grooms’ parents will usually share a table at the reception along with any siblings and immediate family who aren’t in the wedding party sitting with you! If your parents are divorced consider two ‘family’ tables that are filled in with close family friends or friends you grew up with that your parents know.
How do you know your guests?
College friends? Co-workers? Extended family? Start a list of guests and how you know them. This does NOT mean all of these people will sit together, you’ll want a mix of new and familiar faces at your tables but having the categories set means you have somewhere to start.
Determine the right mix.
When you plan out the tables (mini tip :: there are several drag and drop digital seating charts available online!) make sure you don’t leave anyone alone with nobody they know and skip the singles table – this can be embarrassing for guests! At the same time it’s a good idea to try not to have tables full of all your co-workers, or just your sorority sisters – you want people to enjoy a reunion but part of the joy of life is meeting new interesting people and making new friendships!
Think of your photos.
I know, I know – your photographer speaking here 😉, but consider putting your VIPs at tables next to you – and next to the action. We’ll certainly try and capture everything at your reception but you and your groom are the stars of the show and those seated near you will be in the majority of your photos.
Pin away.
Once you’ve got the seat assignments set you can start narrowing in on the details of how guests will find their seats. There are so many fun options for your wedding seating! Where do you start coming up with ideas? Think of how and where you and your fiancé met, the setting and theme of your wedding, your favorite place to vacation, a passion you share, what your invitations look like, or the flowers you are using. Talk to your wedding planner (or photographer 🙋🏼♀️) and look on pinterest for inspiration!
