Your Guide for Designing Your Perfect Wedding Reception Seating Chart

Photographer: @lenachristinephoto || Wedding planner: @daeventplanner & @urleventsco

One part of wedding planning that, while not mandatory, is traditional is creating a wedding seating chart. Not only does assigned seating make things simpler, it helps keep things running smoothly for staff. 

However, deciding on who should sit where can be… complicated - especially if you’re having a large wedding or are dealing with some family drama. But, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming! To start, consult with your wedding venue prior to beginning your chart. That way, you can ask for different layout options depending on the number of guests. 

Here are 11 more tips and tricks for creating the ultimate wedding reception seating chart. 

Choose Your Table Shapes 

There are typically four standard table shape options: round, rectangle, oval, and square. Depending on your style and the venue, you can choose the option that works best for you. 

Seat Your Friends Close 

A traditional head table with your wedding party (and their plus ones) is the perfect way to ensure you’re surrounded by friends and the reception and acknowledge their role in the wedding. 

Where Will the Parents Sit? 

All of the parents traditionally share a table at the reception as well as grandparents and/or siblings that weren’t in the wedding party. Things can, of course, get tricky with divorced parents. If there is tension between parties, you can opt for a second table that’s close by so everyone feels included!

Ask Your Parents for Help 

If you’re stumped on where your parents’ friends should sit, ask the parents! For example, if there is room at the family table(s), they can help you navigate who should sit at which table. Or, if there isn’t any room, you may need an additional friends-and-family table nearby. 

How to Group Guests 

Once the guest list is finalized and you know who’s coming, you’ll need to begin grouping guests by how you know them. For example, family members, high school/college friends, work friends, etc. While you don’t necessarily have to seat them according to their group, having an overview as to who’s coming and where you can seat them. Consider grouping guests back on their age, interests, and backgrounds, too. For example, friends who have kids the same age, friends who traveled to be there, etc. 

Say No to a Singles Table 

While it may be tempting to fix up your single friends and family members by putting them at a table together, it could make them feel uncomfortable or embarrassed. And, don’t sit an unmarried guest with a bunch of married couples! 

Opt for a Kids Table (If Necessary) 

If you’ll have children guests at your wedding, consider seating them all at a separate kids’ table complete with crafts or activities to keep them occupied. However, if you’re only having your flower girl and ring bearer, you can seat them with their parents. 

Be Mindful of the Venue 

Don’t forget to be mindful of the venue layout in terms of seating guests. For example, your VIPs should get the best seat in the house while older guests may want to be farther from the band. 

Make a Digital and/or Physical Seating Chart 

There are several sites now to create a digital seating chart that make it super simple to arrange (and rearrange) all your seating options. Three sites to check out are WeddingWire, AllSeated, and Wedding Mapper. 

If you’re more into physical charts, you can easily use poster boards or even a large whiteboard with dry-erase markers to create your seating chart. 

Consider Only Assigning Tables 

If assigned seating isn’t necessarily your thing, consider assigning tables without specific seats. Your guests will still have direction but can make their own choice as to where to sit. 

Make Sure Table Assignments are Clear 

When it comes to table assignments, try to find that sweet spot between ease of use and creativity. While tented or envelope cards are traditional, there are so many more options out there to choose from in your style! Try arranging guests’ names in alphabetical order to help them find their seats faster. And, pick a font that’s easy to read! That way no one is squinting trying to find their name! 

Although creating a seating chart for your wedding reception can be overwhelming, keeping in mind these 11 tips will help minimize stress provide your guests with the ultimate wedding experience!