One of the biggest questions Swanky gets, is should we do assigned seating or not? The answer (for us at least) will always be a big YES! From a planners point of view, there are several issues that can arise when not doing assigned seating. The biggest issue, is it brings back the feeling of “cliques” where some guests want to sit together, and there might not be enough seats set up at that specific table. This ultimately makes guests feel left out, or lost and uncomfortable finding a seat with people they may not know.
The venue and caterers work hard with planners and decorators to get table displays beautiful. When one guest wants to move to another table, it off sets the element and symmetry of that tablescape. When this happens, the catering or venue staff have to stop what they are doing and make sure to move everything. This can then set your timeline off by 10-15 minutes!
Bite the bullet, and do your guests a solid by creating a seating chart or place cards with their table assignment. No need to tell them they need to sit at seat 1, just table 1. If you need help or inspiration with creating a seating chart or place cards, Swanky is here to help! Here are some of our favorite seating charts and place cards we have done or seen in the past.
Mirrored & Acrylic Seating Chart
Vintage or Framed mirrors are the best to display. They have a classy and elegant touch to them. You can use vinyl sticker that peel right off afterwards, or chalk markers that easily wash off with cleaning supplies. The acrylic slabs have become more trendy in the past few seasons. They have an airy and modern look to them. Having a colorful background with florals to set the slab in front of can make for an eye pleasing view when searching for their name.
Terrariums and Plants
This may seem unusual but it is fun and creative! This gallery features Swanky gold shelving and terrarium seating display. In the past we’ve seen brides hybrid their place cards by using them as a favor too. Use something that goes with your color and theme and it will bring every thing together.
Other Seating Displays
Framed posters, and individual table cards is usually the least expensive, and easy to do on any website if you are a DIY bride. Vintage, sleek, modern, rustic and colorful frames or pieces of all sizes can be used for your seating chart. The design on the actual poster should go with your color and theme. Alphabetical order is the best approach if doing just names with the table number next to it.
Place-cards of All Kinds
Place cards are as simple as a tiny card folded in half to place on a welcome table, or at each seat on the table. Keeping it simple, with a fun font and color is just as good. In the past we’ve seen weddings intertwine small items to weigh down the place card. For example, tying it to a shell or bubbles will keep it weighed down and also can act as a small souvenir.
