One of the challenges in planning and preparing our wedding is the seating arrangement of our guests at the reception. So here are some tips in making this plan in order and somehow giving our guests a pleasant dining companions.

1. Go through your response cards and make sure everyone is accounted for, including those who responded verbally and members of the wedding entourage, as well as their spouses and children.

2. List the names of couples and their small children in groups, so you can seat the family together.

3. If you are having a bride’s (or head) table, list those who will sit there. You will want their spouses or partners seated at a table nearby.

4. Decide who will sit at the family table or tables: parents, siblings and their families, the officiant and his or her spouse, godparents, etc.

5. Draw a diagram of your reception venue, indicating the locations of the tables, the band or sound system, the cake, buffet tables and so forth. Keep in mind that elderly people or those with hearing problems probably won’t enjoy sitting next to the speakers; pregnant women may want to be close to the bathrooms; and disabled people will need appropriate access and accommodations.

6. Number the tables in a logical order so they’ll be easy to locate.

7. Write down each table number, followed by lines equal to the number of seats available at the table (usually 8 or 10).

8. List the names of everyone who will be assigned to a particular table. Assign people to tables rather than actual seats, as this system is easier for you and allows for friendly mingling.

9. Assign one table where your wedding service providers can eat and rest. This table need not be located among your guest tables.

10. Arrange for an extra table to accommodate those who respond at the last minute.

11. Make signs bearing the number for each table and assign someone to place the signs as you have indicated on your diagram. Someone should have the diagram and the list of assignments at the reception in case there is a question.

12. Prepare place cards for the head table and the family tables.

13. Write each guest’s or couple’s name on an individual card, along with the appropriate table number, and place these cards near the entrance to let people know where they should sit.

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