|
Creative Ideas For Table Cards
So you’ve decided to use a seating plan for your reception or party. In addition to adding a sophisticated touch to your event, this will really give you an opportunity to be creative and showcase your event theme and your personality.
The first glimpse your guests will get of your seating plan is through the table cards (also known as escort cards). These are usually set out in the area where the guests will gather for the cocktail hour, so they can find their cards while mingling. There are three typical ways that your guests can identify the table at which they will be seated: traditional escort cards, hanging cards, or a framed seating chart.
 Traditional Escort Cards
Traditional escort cards are either flat cards or tented cards that are set on a flat surface, such as a sideboard or table. Either printed or hand written, each card includes the name or number of the table and the guest’s full name. The most formal, traditional escort cards will include their own envelopes with the card placed inside or simply under the flap. When setting out the cards, they must be alphabetized by last name so guests can easily locate their cards.
 Hanging Cards
A fun alternative is to hang your escort cards from something, rather than laying them flat. This is where you can get really creative. For example, use a tree branch for a fall wedding, and write each guest’s name on a leaf cutout. Or for a holiday wedding, use a metal tree and tiny ornaments with name tags attached. (Bonus: these can double as your favors!) The sky is the limit. Just be sure to hang your cards in as close to alphabetical order as possible, and make sure they are easy to read.
 Framed Seating Chart
A framed seating chart is a great option, especially if you have a large guest list and/or a limited budget. Using a large poster-size board, list your guests’ names in alphabetical order by last name under each table name or number. Here again, it’s easy to be creative and do a layout that ties in with your theme. For example, use different papers or graphic elements to indicate the table names or numbers. The poster can be framed if you wish, and then simply propped on a standing easel.
|
