Table Plans - the pros and Cons

Saturday, 28 February 2015 00:00

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Amid the big decisions about your wedding day, who is going to sit where, can seem just one more detail among many. In the busy few weeks before your Big Day creating a plan for all guests can seem time consuming and overly formal. Because of this many couples are opting for no seating plan or just a top table list and a request for guests to sit where they wish. If your wedding is a small and/or simple affair and both your families get on well this can add to the atmosphere and fun of your reception. However it is not always the simplest option for all weddings.

Even if you favour a relaxed approach therefore it can be worth thinking things through before doing away with your plan. If nothing else the one thing you should definitely do is to speak to your planner about the regulations at your venue. Check the minimum and maximum number of guests that can be seated per table, what shape the tables will be and if there is any restriction on the number of tables you can have for your guests numbers. This will not only help you make your final decision if you want a set table plan or not but also save you hours remaking the plan if you made it before taking these into account!

Whatever your wedding style therefore it can truly save both time and trouble to talk through the issue with your partner or parents and your planner. Here we look at the pros and cons of having a table plan and what you need to ask your planner before you start making yours:

Pros of NOT having a seating plan:
Less work for you and your fiancé
More relaxed feel to your wedding meal as family and friends chose where to sit.

Cons of NOT having a seating plan
Not permitted at some venues if you are offering a choice of main courses.
Potential problems if you have family or friends who do not get on.
No say over who is nearest to the top table – ie close family members may end up at the back!

Pros of having a seating plan
Having tables organised according to who knows each other and will get on well
Avoiding potential problems with difficult family members or friends
Keeping your wedding theme and colours going with the table plan and place names
Essential at many venues if you are offering a choice of starters and/or main meals.

Cons of having a seating plan
More formal
More work for you in making it.

 

It's your day and your decision but make sure you think it through! 

 

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