Stupid question of the day-seating charts

mart1268

Here is my question: I haven't decided if I'm going to do a seating chart yet. If I don't do a seating chart, then I don't have to worry about doing table numbers-is that correct? What are the pros and cons to having a seating chart vs. not having one?Thanks!

LittleSweetie

No seating chart = no need for table numbers! You might still want to have some signs that say "Reserved" for family and special guests, but you're right - no seating chart makes things a lot easier! You may still want to make place cards though, so guests can reserve a spot at a table. Seating Chart: + Guests seated with familiar people + Efficient use of tables; no empty seats or overflow from inefficient seating - More work on your part No Seating Chart: ++++ Less to do! (No time spent grouping people, no table numbers) - Awkward for guests to find spots to sit (usually this isn't major, but if you don't know a lot of people at the wedding, it could be intimidating as a guest) - Guests won't fill tables completely, so make sure there are some overflow seats/tables

Kambria11

I was all for not having assigned tables. Then we attended my sisters wedding and we ended up in the back and kind of around the corner cause someone else took our spots at the family table. Yes, we could have asked them to find a different table, but we also didn't want to be rude. So, we decided that it would be in everyone's best interest that it would be a good idea to make sure that all our family was where they should be.

Bimbi284

I think its is worth the extra work. As someone who has attended many weddings where there wasn't a seating chart, I always appreciate when there is one. There have been times when I haven't known anyone else but the bride, so finding a seat is pretty weird. Also, if you have a schedule set of when you want things to start, it is helpful to have assigned seating, so people aren't wandering around too long figuring out where to sit.

els8383

As a guest, I really really like weddings where guests have assigned tables. I've been to many weddings where I don't know too many people and it is super awkward to have to find somewhere to sit. Seating charts are a bit more work, but I think they're worth it.

hkiesling

I will add that you should take a cue from your guest list. If there are some family feuds going on or awkward divorses where both parties are invited, than a seating chart would be helpful. Or, if you have a lot of people who don't know anyone else. In my case, the guest list will be mostly family and groups of friends who know each other, so it won't be such a big deal. Also, no feuds or hard feelings anywhere. One of the other minus for seating charts is if you don't know all the names of everyone coming (distant cousin's kid, someones new boyfriend, etc) It happens. Plus, I've never really cared for the idea of telling people where to sit. Chances are, they'd do a better job picking who they want to sit by than I would. I'm reserving three tables for immediate family and telling those who are supposed to sit there that they are supposed to sit up front. I'm also making name cards for everyone so they can "save" a seat if they want to. HTH

mart1268

Thanks for the replies!