What Is The Best Strategy For A Seating Chart?

You want every guest to feel special, so arranging the seating chart is no easy task. Before you begin, obtain the floor plan and make several copies. This way, you can experiment with different arrangements before making your final decision.

Newlyweds

The bride and groom may sit at a head table at the focal point of the room, or alternatively, at their very own "sweetheart" table.

Parents

Often, the parents of the bride and groom sit opposite each other at a large family table, with grandparents and other close friends. An alternative is to have the bride's and groom's parents "host" their own tables, consisting of their family members and close friends. In the case of divorced parents, each parent may also host his or her own table, smoothly diffusing any awkwardness or discomfort.

Singles vs. Couples

If you've been wanting to fix your old roommate up with your fiance's cousin, you might take this opportunity to discreetly seat them near to each other. Resist the urge to create a separate "singles" table, though, as this might embarrass your guests. By the same token, don't seat that unmarried girlfriend at a table full of gushing newlyweds. A little sensitivity and common sense are the best guides.

Parents’ Friends

If you have no idea what to do with your parents' friends, let your mother and mother-in-law arrange those tables. They'll love being involved, and this may keep them from trying to control of the rest of your seating plan.

Children

If you have several children at your wedding, consider seating them together at a separate kids' table. If your flower girl and ring bearer are the only children present, seat them with their parents.

Mix & Match

As for the rest of your guests, it's a great idea to mix in a few new faces at each table, but remember that people are most comfortable when they know some of their dinner companions. If you have guests who don't know anyone, seat them near guests with similar interests. If you have a group of friends that can't fit at one table, split them down the middle and fill in each table with other guests.