Wedding seating chart mistakes to avoid

Your wedding is all about you, right? But you also want your guests to have fun. And although it feels like an emotional jigsaw puzzle, where you sit can dictate your night. Here are some wedding seating chart mistakes to avoid.

From figuring out who’s sitting next to who, not doing any seating chart at all, forgetting your VIP guests, and not thinking about chemistry between guests; the wedding seating chart can be a bit of a mind game. Don’t worry, we’ve got the rules.

Our extensive list of wedding seating chart mistakes to avoid (because it’s your wedding, not a MAFS dinner party!)

Not doing a seating chart

Let me guess, you’re a Type B person? A laissez-faire attitude, everyone will just find their seat and that’s that, right? Unfortunately, people are a little more complicated and getting people to sit down is a little like herding cats.

So, while skipping the seating chart could seem like the easy option, it could lead to chaos. Guests feel awkward about where to sit, couples or families might end up getting split up, and some tables will end up overcrowded, whilst others struggle to get half full.

A well-thought-out chart might seem like an overwhelming chore, but it’s for good reason – to make sure everyone is comfortable and ensure that your partner’s colleague from 7 years ago doesn’t somehow end up at the bridal table.

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History class: Who’s got a past?

All is fair in love and war, but you don’t need a war at your reception! The easiest way to combat this is to remember who has a history and put those people at opposite ends of the table. From ex-colleagues, to ex-friends through to ex-lovers, anything that could cause tension (considering that they might have had a couple too many bubbles) should be stopped before it can start.

Take a little extra time to think through any potential clashes. You’ll save yourself from awkward silences (or worse, heated exchanges) on the night.

Confused? We put together a seating chart planner just for you! Find out more.

Who has a AAA VIP pass?

No one is more important than anyone else, but there is a social hierarchy on your wedding day, and some guests get VIP passes. Parents, grandparents, anyone with a major role… They get prime seating. Front row at the ceremony, and close to the action (and the speeches) at the reception.

Placing them near you not only makes them feel valued but also keeps them involved in key moments.

Considering abilities

Be mindful of the abilities of your guests, and create a seating chart accordingly. Elderly guests or those with mobility challenges would appreciate being put close to exits, bathrooms, or being away from the loud speakers.

With these considerations in mind, your guests will be made to feel included and comfortable.

Unsure who to even invite? We put together a quiz to help you figure it out! Take it.

Squeezing too many at one table

It can be a hard thing to manage, keeping people in their friendship groups, couples together and families, but a big mistake is squeezing everyone on one table. Bumping elbows, too many voices trying to talk at once, servers trying to get to everyone. It can make it a bit more of a chaotic experience than you might imagine.

Stick to the recommended numbers for your tables, even if it means adjusting your layout slightly.

Leaving someone off

It’s an obvious one, but it can also be a really easy oversight to make. Accidentally leaving one of your guests off the list is equal parts confusion and embarrassment. Double, triple-check your guest list against your RSVP list before you finalise and print off your seating chart.

Plus ones, where do they start and where do they stop? We explore.

FAQs about wedding seating chart mistakes to avoid

Do we really need a seating chart?

Yes! While it might feel unnecessary, a seating chart avoids confusion. It can also help your caterer and venue staff, particularly if guests have dietary restrictions.

When should we finalise the seating chart?

Aim to lock it in about two weeks before the wedding, after the final RSVPs have come through.

How do we handle plus-ones we don’t know?

Seat them with their partner’s group, but also think about who they might connect with. You don’t need to overthink it. Comfort comes first, and they’ll likely stick with the person they came with.

Should we mix families and friends?

Only you can answer that, as you know your guests the best. If they’re all about mingling and making new friends, then go ahead and mix them up! But if you’ve got an introverted family or friend group who just want to mingle with one another, it’s fine to keep them together.

What if someone cancels at the last minute?

Don’t stress, leave the chart as is. Just let your venue know so they can adjust meals and seating if needed. Most guests won’t notice a missing chair.