Wedding Seating Plan tips

Natasha Grant

8 top tips for tackling your wedding seating plan

Mirrored seating plan in white frame displayed on an easel

Creating a wedding seating plan, is not an easy task. It can take a couple of goes to make it right and just when you think you have it sorted a guest tells you they can no longer come to your wedding!  It happens and is a hot topic of conversation between my couples. Now, if you are reading this and are still struggling with your guest list, I have you covered. Head to my blog post with tops tips for creating your wedding guest list.

If you have your guest list sorted and now need to figure out where everyone sits. Then read on for some top tips to help with your seating plan preparation.


1. Start creating your seating plan early

Start planning your seating plan as early as possible. This will give you enough time to make any changes or adjustments as necessary. 

2. Get an Accurate Headcount

Make sure you have an accurate headcount of guests who will be attending the wedding. This will help you determine the size and number of tables needed. One tip is that as guests RSVP you assign them a seat, then adjust as needed.



3.  Determine the layout of your venue

 It's important to understand the layout of your venue before you begin planning the seating arrangements. This will help you determine how many tables you can fit and how many guests each table can seat. Your wedding planner can advise here.

Round wedding table with light pink tablecloth by a window


4.Decide on a wedding seating style

There are a few different seating styles to choose from, including traditional round tables, long banquet tables, or a mix of both. Consider the size of your guest list and the style of your wedding when deciding on a seating style.Different table shapes have different advantages for seating.


5.How to create a wedding Seating plan

Create a seating chart to help you organize your guests. You can use a spreadsheet or a wedding seating chart software to make the process easier. My clients get access to a great tool, which helps with this, so that they can drag and drop guests names into and can rearrange it as many times as needed.



Birds eye view of a round wedding table with pink and white flower centrepieces


6. Consider Guest Preferences and relationships

For example, you may want to seat guests who are more outgoing or have similar interests together. The relationships between your guests is also important to consider, when creating your seating plan. You may want to seat close family members and friends together or mix guests up to encourage conversation.



7. Seat Guests Strategically

Seat guests strategically to ensure that everyone has a good time. For example, you may want to seat older guests near the dance floor or put guests who do not know anyone together to encourage them to socialize.



8. Have a Backup Seating Plan

Have a backup plan in case someone cancels or if a guest shows up unexpectedly. This will help you to make quick adjustments to your seating plan if necessary.


If you have a wedding planner we can help with all of this. Remember, your seating plan should be a reflection of your personality and the overall tone of your wedding. Use these tips to create a seating plan that ensures everyone has a great time at your wedding.


If you want help planning one of the best days of your life, you can read more about the wedding services I offer.

Get in touch to book in a complimentary consultation to discuss your exciting wedding plans.



Natasha

About the Author


Natasha is the founder and lead planner at Pearline Events, a London-based wedding planning business specialising in vibrant multicultural celebrations and dry-hire venues. With her background of over a decade of experience in Civil Service project management, she brings unparalleled logistics and problem solving skills, plus creative flair to create seamless, colourful weddings. Her work has been featured in numerous online and print publications.


Named after her late grandmother, 'Pearline' means precious, reflecting Natasha's belief that every love story is unique and deserves a wedding that reflects its true spirit and you. She helps couples fuse their cultures into an exquisitely elegant day, ensuring they arrive relaxed and joyful.


Ready for a relaxed, joyful planning journey? Get in touch.

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