SEATING AND TABLE ASSIGNMENTS

A recent survey shows that  84% of guests prefer their host to assign them a seat or table at a wedding reception.  There are many ways of accomplishing this task but in doing so there are some very important things that must be considered. 

There are three types of place cards:  1) Escort cards are available near the entrance of the reception and inform your guests of which table they are assigned to.  2) Table cards are located on the center of each table identifying the table number (or table name). 3) Place cards are set at each place setting assigning a specific seat to each guest.

 

First, be sure your escort card table is as near to the main entrance of your to your reception.  Ask your host/hostess to assist your guests and to keep an eye out for guests who may have missed the escort card table.  Once guests
get seated comfortably it is very difficult to ask them to relocate to their assigned table.

Second, if you are serving a plated dinner, be sure that your place cards easily identify your guest's choice of entree.  You may consider assigning particular colors or shades of colors but it is critical that the servers are able to easily distinguish the entree choice without close examination of each card.

Third, be sure your escort cards are arranged by last names and placed in alphabetical order on a table near the entrance of your reception.  Alphabetizing should occur prior to arriving at the hall to decorate as this can be an extremely time consuming matter. Sorting your computerized guest list with entree choices and preparing the cards using the pre-alphabetized list is a great way to save time and energy.

 
Finally, you may provide seating assignments on a single escort card for each family if a buffet or single plated entree will be provided.  However, if you are serving a choice entrée be sure to use place cards at each table to distinguish entrée choices for each family member as this is vital for the servers to distinguish your guest’s choice of entrée.

Although assigned seating is not a requirement, it provides a more formal feel to your event and eases the tension for guests.  However, if these important details are overlooked it can quickly multiply the work of your catering staff.

Careful and thorough planning for your seat assignments is critical.  If you are considering seat assignments and have questions please feel free to email at samantha@samanthas-creations.com or call me toll free at 866-266-2758.

Best to you in your planning!