Seating Arrangements
TABLE LAYOUTS The table layout of the reception room will depend on the shape of the tables your venue provides and how the tables are best arranged to make the room look balanced for the number of guests to be seated. Round tables are the most popular. A typical reception table layout will have one long top table for the bridal party and as many round tables as required for your guests. A round top table should be avoided because the view of the bride and groom will be obscured by others on the table and several members of the bridal party will have their backs to the other guests.
Immediate family will always sit closest to the head table. It is customary to alternate male and female guests. If you decide to split up couples, they should not be too far away from each other. Children should always be seated with their parents. Try to seat guests with people that they know as it is easier to facilitate good conversation. Although this will not be possible in all cases, at least try to have similar age groups or guests with similar interests seated together such as aunts and uncles, friends, or work colleagues. Guests may be uncomfortable if they are seated with people they do not know. It is particularly important to bear this point in mind if you have round tables, because the temptation is to fill up the tables with unconnected guests.
Remember:
Thoughtful table arrangements will heighten your guests' experience
You're not going to be able to make everyone completely happy. Do the best you can to avoid major political blunders
Build a little flexibility into your seating plan
Other items that need to be included in the floor plan:
DJ location
Cake
Microphone and podium
Gift table
Place card location
The Wedding Seating Plan
Seating Etiquette
The following layout is typical for a head table although couples are choosing other patterns, e.g. round tables in the centre of the room.
