Setting up a seating chart

 As promised in a recent post here are some tips for tackling that dreaded seating chart.

You'll need:
-Colored post-it notes
-Paper plates
-Your guest list
-RSVPs

Familiarize yourself with the layout of the venue. Take notes about how seating is typically arranged.

Use a large piece of paper to sketch out each table taking into account its size and how many seats can be accommodated at each table.

Draw in where the DJ and/or band will be performing, exit points, restrooms, cake table, gifts table and any other tables you'll be using.

Assign each table a title or a number.

Create a list on another sheet of paper which lists the table titles as well as the number of seats available at each table.

Gather your RSVP cards and start organizing your guests. Color-code your guests (by using colored post-it notes) into groups: family, colleagues, childhood friends, college friends, family friends, etc. This will allow you to group people appropriately.

Write each guest's name on a post-it that indicates their relationship to you and the groom. Using post-its will allow you to move guests easily.

Write each table name on an individual paper plate.

Take your post-its and put the correct number of people at each table (paper plate).

Family should be seated as close to the head table as possible. If there are odd numbers within family groups, consider mixing up the family tables to include members of the bride and groom's families.

Elderly guests should not be seating near loud speakers or young children. If possible, sit them close to exits and/or amenities.

Aim for an even gender split at each table so you have an equal number of men and women sitting together.

Seat children under the age of 14 with their parents. If you have a group of children who are 15 years or older you can set up a table specifically for them.

When determining where to sit same-sex couples look for a spot away from people who might cause or take offense.

Avoid sitting ex-spouses or those involved in disputes too close to each other.

Try not to isolate all of your single guests by sitting them together. Place them with other singles, couples and families.

Leave two tables that aren't in a priority location empty. Your photographer and other vendors can use one table to rest and eat during their breaks. The other can be used for any unexpected guests.

Once you're finished, prepare a large seating diagram that shows the list of seating assignments. Make extra copies to have on hand at the venue.

Create table name or number signs. Explain to the caterer or planner how your table labels work and where each sign should be placed during the decorating phase.

Design place cards and alphabetize them. Setting out the cards alphabetically will save guests time when trying to locate their seats.

*Photo courtesy of: www.weddingdesignanarchy.com