Atlanta Wedding Info - Ideas, Advice, Tips and Bridal Events

Reception Seating Plans: A Do or A Don’t?

By Daria MacGregor • Circle of Love Weddings
404-513-5037 • www.circleofloveweddings.com

An event has a seating plan when each table at the reception 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 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. 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 reserved tables.
It is a great way to be creative and incorporate 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).

For a successful seating plan, follow these guidelines:

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. Please, avoid the dreaded “singles table”!
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 to a few tables if it makes sense for your groups.
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.