To Seating Chart or Not to Seating Chart

Seating charts are always one of the most dreaded tasks by any couple planning a wedding. On many forums, Facebook groups etc. brides ask, "do we really need a seating chart?"

Well the only person who can decide that really is you, but there are a lot of factors to consider when considering foregoing a seating chart. Open seating can be one of those ideas that sounds good in theory but is really a disaster when the time comes. 

Most weddings nowadays have 100 guests or more and most couples these days have friends from all over. Think about it- do your church friends know your college friends? DO your cousins on mom's and dad's side all know each other? DO your coworkers know your friends? Seating people with people they know or at least have things in common with will mean your guests have a better time at your wedding. It will also help alleviate social anxiety. Open seating may mean someone can't find a seat or they sit alone without anyone they know. 

Chances are, you're also inviting couples and families. If a group that came together can't find seats together, they are a lot more likely to leave early. Also, not being able to sit with their family, significant other or the only people they know, is likely to put a damper on them having a good time. 

If you are inviting anyone who is elderly, handicapped or who has limited mobility, consider a seating chart. You want to make sure these guests do not have to walk far to their table or are close to a bathroom. When thinking about grandparents, you probably want to make sure they have prime seating and can see all the special moments. 

For dinner, whether you have a plated dinner or buffet, having assigned tables helps with organization. For plated dinners, you have to have assigned seating if guests made menu choices. For buffet. assigned tables help with organization due to buffet lines typically being called by table number. 

You do not likely need to do assigned SEATS usually assigned tables is plenty (except for plated meals with menu choices made during RSVP). When entering the reception, guests will be more organized knowing where they should sit if you have an organized seating chart. Rather than guests standing around awkwardly trying to find a seat with people they know. Unless your wedding is very small, just close family or EVERYONE knows each other, you should do a seating chart or simply assigned tables. There are many tools that make organizing a seating chart a breeze- including hiring a wedding planner/coordinator. Want help with your seating? Email me at tatiana@simplycharmedevents.com