The wedding table layout is very important.
As soon as you have written the guest list (read here if you want tips on how to do it) it is important to draw up an initial outline of how to arrange the guests at the tables.
It may seem too early to do this when you do not yet have confirmations, or have not yet sent in your participation.
In reality, it is much easier to ‘fix’ tables that have already been made, rather than finding oneself, during the usually busy last month, having to decide how to allocate places.
There are many quick and practical ways to do this.
If you have some practice with the computer, I recommend downloading this programme: PERFECT TABLE PLAN. It is free, in English, but very easy to use. At the bottom of the page you will find the link to download it.
It gives you the possibility to enter the guest list, add the various guests as individuals, couples, families or groups. It then goes on to the table layout: you can choose the shape, the position in the room, the number of guests for each.
You will end up with a complete and clear plan of the table layout with the names of the guests in each.
In addition, with this programme you have the option of making several printouts: floor plan, guest list, confirmation list. You can insert pictures and name the tables. All this will make it easier for you later when compiling the tableau.
If you prefer to write, there is always the alternative of the classic sheet. I will insert our template. Download it and start composing your tables.
Table Scheme
As you receive confirmations, highlight who will be present at the reception and who has declined the invitation.
When you have heard from all the guests, refine the tables. Combine those with fewer people and revise. I assure you that in this way you will always have your guests’ schedule under control.
Now some tips on how to arrange the tables in the reception hall.
Rectangular table of honour
If there are only a few guests you can make a horseshoe or single table arrangement.
The bride and groom will be in the centre of the head table in the first case or in the centre of the long table in the second.
The groom is always to the left of the bride, to the right goes the groom’s father, a best man and then the bride’s father. To the left of the groom goes the bride’s mother, the officiant, the groom’s mother, a best man. The other guests follow, starting with the closest relatives.
If there are many guests, it is preferable to choose an arrangement with several round or rectangular tables.
Rectangular table of honour
The bride and groom will be in the centre of the head table in the first case or in the centre of the long table in the second.
The groom is always to the left of the bride, to the right goes the father of the groom, a best man and then the father of the bride. To the left of the groom goes the bride’s mother, the officiant, the groom’s mother, a best man. The other guests follow, starting with the closest relatives.
If there are many guests, it is preferable to choose an arrangement with several round or rectangular tables.
The bride and groom can have a table alone, or a table of honour with parents and witnesses. For the seating arrangement, the rule would be a rectangular table.
Round table of honour
However, the solution with the bride and groom alone and the rest of the guests divided into tables of 8/10 people maximum is becoming increasingly popular.
It is good to think of a table layout that makes everyone feel comfortable so as to facilitate conversation and friendships.
Families can be split up, or, especially in the case of younger people, it is good to put people of similar ages together.
Absolutely to be avoided is the singles’ table. It is often embarrassing for guests to find themselves at a table of semi-strangers with whom they have little in common other than the fact that they are in a couple.
Instead, tables with groups of two or three friends or girlfriends are favoured.
For children, organise a table where they will be together, supervised by an adult, preferably an entertainer or a baby sitter, who will provide entertainment. In this way, the parents will also be able to enjoy the festivities.
Deciding on table arrangements can cause moments of anxiety, especially if a few days before the wedding there are cancellations or someone joins at the last minute. Always keep in mind that three or four changes are normal, even at the last minute.
If you have already composed the tableau leave everything as it is. Even if there is one more name written than the number of people at the table, it will not be a problem.
Remember, however, to inform the restaurant or caterer so that they know the exact number of guests.
I hope you found this article useful. I will be very happy if you leave a comment below.
If you think it might be useful to someone else, you can share it.
See you soon.
Gloria.
DOWNLOAD THE PERFECT TABLE PLAN HERE
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