Seating Arrangements

Some Basic Seating Guidelines
Traditionally, the Bride and Bridal attendants are placed to the left of the table and the venue, while the Groom and his Groomsmen are on the right.

You can mix it up if you want. A common alternative is to use a male-female-male-female pattern.

Seating Parents
Both sets of parents can be seated at the head table. (Please refer to the diagram in the printed editions of The Bride's Diary which will help you in seating your parents appropriately at this table).

If the bridal party is large, communication between everyone can become quite difficult. In this circumstance you may wish to seat both sets of parents on a separate table, the one closest to the head table.

Alternatively, you could have separate tables for each set of parents, seating them with close friends and relatives. The MC and/or clergyman are usually seated at the Bride’s parents’ table.

Again, in honour of each family, both tables should be set closest to the head table. Our diagram will help you in seating your parents appropriately at the parents’ table.

Displaying Your Plan
It’s not uncommon for your guest to feel slightly bewildered when entering the reception venue. The utmost concern on each mind is where they will be sitting during the event. There are simple solutions to seating your guests.

Place Cards
Place cards are an excellent idea for welcoming each guest to their particular table. You can individualise them at each setting or place a single attractive card in the centre of the table, bearing the name of each guest.

Do ensure the place cards harmonise with the rest of your wedding stationery.

Site Map
At the entrance of the reception room you can place a site map that depicts the floor plan of each table and the names of those who will sit at them. Alternatively, drink-ushers could be issued with an alphabetical list of guests and can let them know what table they’re on when serving pre-dinner drinks.

Professional Advice
Your reception venue will have ample experience in these matters. Their advice is invaluable and can help to maximise the effectiveness of your floor plan and the enjoyment of your guests.

Let the celebrations begin!

  Return to the Article Index