The seating of guests at a wedding banquet is, of course, far from the most important thing in preparation, but nevertheless, this issue should be paid attention to so that guests feel comfortable and the holiday is a success.
1. First, decide on the format of the event (banquet, buffet), style and type of table arrangement. Do you want to put one table with the letter "P", "T", "G" or make a "European" seating, that is, several separate tables. In the case of European seating, try to see the bride and groom from all tables, so that the tables do not stand behind columns or completely “out of the way”, as you can offend guests who will get a place there.
2. "Free" seating, in which each guest occupies any free seat, is recommended in the following cases:
- if the number of guests is small (about 20-30);
- if all the guests know each other well;
- if the wedding style is democratic or the format involves a large number of active games.
Personalized seating, that is, with cards indicating the place of each guest, and a floor plan, it is advisable to do in the following cases:
- if the number of guests is very large: 80-100 people, in this case you will be able to accommodate guests in the most optimal way and avoid cases when the guest will be looking for a place for a long time;
- if the wedding is classic, with the presence of high-ranking guests;
- if you want to observe the traditions in the seating of guests and see a deep meaning in this;
- if many guests are not familiar with each other, and at the same time you want to "introduce" them.
There is another option - to make name cards only for parents and close relatives, and give the rest of the guests the opportunity to sit at any place.
3. There are certain traditions concerning the groom and the bride and parents: the bride sits to the right of the groom, witnesses - next to the bride and groom, to the right of the bride - the bride's mother and the groom's father, to the left of the groom - his father and mother of the bride. From the side of the bride her relatives sit down, from the side of the groom - his. Grandparents and the most honored guests should sit closer to the bride and groom, that is, immediately after the parents. Whether or not to follow traditions is your decision, besides, such a sequence can be strictly observed only in the case of a common table. And the best solution is to ask the parents how they would like to sit.
4. When determining places for friends, it should be remembered that it is better to plant couples with couples, and free girls - with free young people. If you know that there are those among the guests who dislike each other, try to seat them as far apart as possible. You should not arrange surprises and put someone at the same table with a completely unfamiliar company. For friends, you can arrange a survey on social networks, who would like to sit with whom, and be guided by this information.
5. Ask the presenter how best to arrange the seating, for sure he will give good advice. Also, it may depend on the program.
6. Do not forget to place a table arrangement plan at the entrance or in another prominent place, indicating the place of each guest. Cards can become an additional element of wedding decor if they are made in the same style as the decoration of the hall.
