Need some Knottie Logic...how to let people know where their tables are?

ipuella

Sooo...our tables are named instead of numbered - all pairs of things that are Better Together (ie peanut butter & jelly, cookies & milk, etc.).  I'm making little hang tags that will be in alphabetical order by last name up on easels, something similar to this visual:
http://tinyurl.com/3a5bu5h

So my question is, how do I let folks know where each table is? Do I need to have a map up there as well on yet another easel, so everyone can find their table first? Or do I just let them wander around and look at each table name before they find their own? Part of me leans towards this a) because it's easier and b) because I want them to see all of my other clever names...but am I being lazy? Or are they all big kids who can look around and figure things out?

We have 22 tables in a long rectangular tent, for reference.

TIA!

megandjay

That is the hard part about names instead of numbers. I would just try to make the names on the tables large and visible enough for guests to see from a distance, and let them find their tables.

We had the same dilemma and decided to use both names and numbers. Ex: this table was named "West Village" but also identified as table number 8. We named our tables after neighborhoods in NYC since that is where we have been living the last few years.

jay10

ha ha I was just thinking this today!! I am also going to do names, but was thinking if I number them too? example, 1. cookies and milk etc I think its easier for the hotel staff and for guests...I was at a wedding recently and was totally lost looking for my table as there was no order to go by...at least if theres numbers as well you can find some order to it to find your seat.

noodle_oo

We did just names for our tables (no numbers) and it wasn't a problem. However we only had 10 tables and they were very spread out/easy to see.  For 22 tables, I think finding your table would be a PITA without some assistance.  I'd either add numbers to them as well (and put them in order so they are easy to find) or have a large map visible to show people where they are.

Starmusica

we had 19 tables and we did names. It wasn't an issue actually. I had considered a map but decided against it and there were no issues. Everyone found their tables easily enough. I wouldn't worry really...

Karen's MOH

I was thinking the same thing when we were considering naming them. You could put the names alphabetically (like, Cookies and Milk is where table 1 would be, Donuts and Coffee is where table 2 would be...). Otherwise, I would just print out or draw a map so servers can help anyone who is confused. Honestly, with 22 tables that might get really annoying to be searching.

sboston06

I went to a wedding last year that had only names.  They had approx 20 tables as well.  We just wandered around and looked at all the tables...it was not a problem.  I would go the easy way out and let the guests wander.  As long as your table names are large enough, they should find it easy enough!

ipuella

All good feedback! Thanks everyone!! I'll let you know how it works out...