Here are a few tips to help you plan your wedding seating chart.
Creating a seating chart is stressful for everyone because you’re trying to seat people who will get along, avoid confrontations, and ensure there’s enough room in the reception hall for everyone. The seating chart sets the stage for your reception. If you carefully arrange your guests, they will be happy, and everyone will enjoy the celebration more. That way, the reception will stay focused on you, as it should be. Here are a few tips to help you plan your wedding seating chart.
Are Wedding Seating Charts Necessary?
A seating chart eases discomfort so your guests can enjoy the gorgeous décor you picked out, the fun activities you planned, and, of course, you as a couple.
Seating charts are also practical, which is why many wedding venues require them. For example, if you are serving food, the servers need to know where to deliver each dish, and you won’t have empty seats with food untouched. In addition, a seating chart ensures that those with dietary restrictions receive the correct meals.
Get The Floor Plan
Before planning the tables or deciding where to place your guests, get your wedding venue’s floor plan. The floor plan lets you visualize how much space you have and how many guests can be seated at each table. Without access to the floor plan, tables could be too close, making it difficult for guests to move. See if you can request the floor plan of your wedding venue to use as a tool to create your seating chart.
Choose a Table Size
Once you can see the space in the reception hall, pick out the length and size of each table. Round tables are common at weddings because they’re less expensive to decorate, add a traditional element to your wedding, and are easier to seat guests around. Alternatively, rectangular tables are great for guests to chat with one another and enjoy their meals.
The dimensions of each table also play an important role when seating your guests. For example, 8 to 10 guests can fit comfortably around a 60-inch round table. After settling on the size and shape of each table, make sure that each table has plenty of room between them to allow guests to walk around.
The Newlyweds Sit First
It’s common for the newlyweds to sit at a sweetheart table in a highly visible position in the room. These typically are small, rectangular tables solely for the new couple. However, not everyone opts for this intimate option. Some couples sit with their friends and family instead to share their special day next to loved ones. Whether you sit at a sweetheart table or with friends and family, you and your spouse will be the focal points of your special day.
Organize The Guest List
It’s recommended that each table be grouped according to relationships and common interests. For instance, the bride’s workmates can be at one table and the groom’s college buddies at another to ensure everyone will have a great time. Family members and relatives are usually seated together. Try to place people with those they know and feel comfortable with.
Once you’ve grouped the guest list, you can assign seats to each table. Use a simple digital spreadsheet or seating chart template to make editing easier as your RSVP list is finalized.
HISTORIC OAKLAND MANOR: THE PERFECT WEDDING VENUE
Nestled in a peaceful wooded area in the heart of downtown Columbia, Historic Oakland Manor stands proudly in natural splendor. Elegant Oakland is the perfect setting for ceremonies, wedding receptions, bridal showers, holiday parties, family celebrations, business meetings, or retreats. Schedule a tour today with our expert venue coordinators! Please call (410-730-4801), email ([email protected]), or visit our chat on our homepage to book a tour appointment.
