5 Reception Seating No-nos

Putting together a wedding reception seating chart is kind of like doing a puzzle – a very, very hard puzzle that deals with people versus inanimate objects. Not only do you have to juggle friends and family members, there are many personalities, last-minute RSVPs, and the physical set-up to contend with. Bottom line: It is a lot to handle, so we are here to help.

Photography by Bello Romance Photography

Don’t seat the elderly right next to the band or the DJ.

Your wedding is going to be a party! It can already be tough for older friends and family members to hear one another, so don’t put them in a position to struggle any more than they already have to just to have simple dinner conversation. They will be happier to converse with one another, and they can move closer to the dance floor later in the evening if they feel up to it.

Photography by Andrew Scalini

Don’t seat feuding guests near each other.

This is probably the smartest move in cases of divorced parents who don’t have the smoothest of relationships. Take a look at the seating layout and try your best to be sure they won’t cross paths but are still able to remain close to you and support you. Chances are, you have a family member or friend that doesn’t see eye to eye with someone else.

Photography by Crystal Keyes Photography

Don’t forget about the kids.

Some couples opt to have a kid-free affair, others want children to be included. If you are inviting the young ones, be sure to have a strategy in place. One option is to have a table specifically for children under 12 years old to be monitored by a specific adult, or you can sit them with their parents. Strategy matters. Don’t place them at any empty seat; see what makes sense for your layout. Keeping the kids all at one table and providing them with some light-hearted entertainment may prevent them from getting antsy. However, seating them with their parents may keep their behavior in check. You will know the children guests at your wedding best, so do whatever works best for you- but have a plan!

Photography by George Street Photography

Don’t overcrowd tables.

If you have a large group of college or high school friends, break them up into two tables right next to each other. Don’t try to crowd as many people at one table as you can. Your friends can always sit down and catch up after the dinner ends if they want to mingle with other guests. Don’t worry, guests will have fun regardless.

Photography by Crystal Keyes Photography

Don’t be too predictable.

Try not to put people who see one another all of the time at the same time. Mix it up and put some thought into it. Think of which friends and family members have similar interest and would likely get along. Weddings are fantastic social settings to meet new people and have great conversation. Keeping in the same train of thought, be sure to switch things up from the rehearsal dinner seating arrangements so people have the opportunity to talk to other guests.