Wedding Guest Seating: Part 2

Seating Charts, Place Cards & Escort Cards

When it comes to seating your guests there are so many options. Seating charts, place cards, escort cards… You might be asking, what’s the difference, and do I even need to assign seating? We’ll explain the difference between them, and when you will want to use what.

Escort Cards

Escort cards are the most formal and traditional way to help your guests find their seat for dinner. Traditionally, these are a small envelope with the guest name written in calligraphy on the front, and a card inside with the guests table number and seat assignment. If you prefer to allow your guests to choose their own seat, then you simply print the table number only on the card. Escort cards should be arranged alphabetically so that guests can quickly and easily find their name. Traditionally, they are arranged on a table near where guests enter the banquet room. However, there are endless creative ways to display your escort cards that can be used as a focal point, a décor statement piece, to personalize your guest experience, and to compliment the theme of your wedding, Including being attached to a guest favor that your guests pick up on their way in. The possibilities are endless!

Seating Chart

Your seating chart is just like it sounds. A chart that’s displayed in a prominent location when guests enter the banquet room. The seating chart will indicate what table you would like each guest to sit at. It can either be organized alphabetically by the guests last name, or it can be organized by table, with the guest names listed beneath the table number they are assigned to. If you have 50 or more guests we recommend you consider listing your guests alphabetically, otherwise your guests will have to read through each table number list until they find their name. This can create a back-up as guests are coming in, because it takes longer for guests to find their name. However, if you love the look of arranging your seating chart by table, we recommend you or your planner print and bring an alphabetical list. Your planner can stand nearby and assist guests who may have difficulty finding their name. Your seating chart can be used alone, or combined with place cards. If you would like to assign your guest to a table, but not a specific seat at the table, it works perfectly on its own. If you would like to assign both the guest table and seat then you simply pair it with place cards.

Place Cards:

Place cards are set at the place setting where you would like the guest to sit. Once they have checked the seating chart for their table number, they will locate their seat at the table. Place cards are one of those details that can really bring your place setting up a notch. Take it from us, your guests do notice the details! These types of details enhance your guest experience. Designing your place cards to compliment the theme and style of your wedding, or incorporating a guest favor, or another unique element will definitely make a statement.

The What, When, and How…

Plated Meal:

Place cards have a duo purpose. They do more than show your guests where to sit. If you are having a plated meal, they will help your catering staff know which meal selections should be set at which place settings. They can also indicate if there is a dietary restriction for one of your guests. We suggest you use a code, either a different ribbon color, a colored jewel or something on the card to represent each entre choice, so serving staff know where to place what. Another option is that your planner can provide a seating chart to your caterer that indicates which seats are to receive which entre, and indicate any dietary restrictions. If you are having a plated meal, we strongly suggest you use place cards.

Buffet or Casual Meal Service:

Place cards also come in handy even if you are having a buffet or casual meal. By directing guests to their seat it ensures that parties are seated next to one another. This is especially important for couples and parties that include children. People often take their seat at a table leaving a buffer seat between themselves and an already seated guest. When this happens, the last party to arrive at the table often find themselves separated.

Do I Even Need To Assign Tables?:

If you’re having a causal event, and don’t want to assign your guests to tables, you will want to be sure that you have additional seating equivalent to one & a half to two tables. This is because as mentioned above, guests will leave empty seats between themselves and parties will be split up and may otherwise end up at entirely different tables. When considering this option remember that the number of guest tables factors into your budget. Those extra tables will need a linen, a centerpiece, and place settings.

In the end, your wedding celebration is your own. You know your guests, and want your day to reflect who you are as a couple. With so many options, there is sure to be one that’s right for you!