As weddings evolve, the need for traditional items such as a seating chart may not be necessary for every event and venue. However, if you have a classic sit-down dinner planned and you find yourself staring at your confirmed guest list wondering how to make everything run smoothly – this blog is for you. Because seating charts cannot be created until after your RSVPs are in, the timing of the task – when you already have a full plate – can cause some stress. And while we’d all love to think our family and friends will get along beautifully, some strategy may be required.
* First off, take a deep breath. Although the entire event may be hours long, the time spent eating is actually fairly limited. So although everyone around a given table may not be best friends, as long as they won’t be throwing food at each other, expect them to handle it. At weddings, people mingle and go visit with other tables, so don’t put too much undue pressure on yourself for everyone around each table to love each other.
* It’s easier to simply assign tables rather than seats, and there is no reason to assign individual seats unless you have an exceptionally formal dinner with individual specialized menus. If you are serving a buffet or have a set menu for everyone (with a simple choice of entree, for instance), it won’t matter too greatly where people end up.
* If you can afford to leave a little space at each table, guests can easily visit or sit at a neighboring table if that works better for them. For instance, a traditional 60 inch round can fit 10 people maximum. By seating 6 or 8 people at each table, you leave space for someone to pull up a chair.
* To take some of the awkwardness out of the “singles” table, encourage your guests who may not know anyone else to bring a plus one, even if that is not the case for the entire guest list. Showing up at a wedding alone is tough enough, but finding yourself among a group of people who have known each other for a lifetime is more than uncomfortable.
* Some suspect that the “Sweetheart Table” was created to avoid squabbles between divorced or estranged parents and new spouses. However, if your family all gets along pretty well, consider sitting with your parents and closest relatives or friends. It will mean a lot to them that you chose to spend these hours with them.
If you need help with planning, tables, venues, or any aspect of wedding planning – you’ll be relieved to know that the professional planners at Beneva Weddings are not only experts at providing the most stunning florals, but at helping you to ensure the entire event runs smoothly. Relax, and give us a call. Your Sarasota wedding is in good hands.
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