Seating Options for Your Wedding Reception - it Doesn't Have to Be Formal

One of the most frustrating aspects of planning your wedding reception is coming up with a seating arrangement that will (1) accommodate all of your guests and (2) that will make everyone happy. If you are working on your wedding reception plans right now then you are probably less then thrilled with all of the work that goes into creating a seating arrangement for this part of your wedding celebration. Fortunately, there are several seating options that you can choose between, and not all of them are formal.

Seating Option #1 - Formal Arrangements

Traditional seating at a wedding reception will involve a grouping of tables that are numbered. Each table is organized based on a commonality. Usually this commonality has to do with the groups relationship to the bride or groom. For example, there may be a table of college friends, a table for kids and a table for siblings, aunts and uncles and cousins. This seating option takes a lot of planning and organization.

Seating Option #2 - Picnic Styles Arrangements

If you are planning a more casual wedding reception, particularly an outdoor wedding reception, then a picnic style seating arrangement is a great option. For this seating plan you will simple set up a number of picnic tables at your venue and allow your guests to select the table that they want to use. This option requires only minimal planning and organization, however, you will need to make sure you have enough table space to go around.

Seating Option #3 - Buffet Style Arrangements

If you will be having a brunch buffet at your wedding or if you will only be serving hor d'oeuvres then you can forgo the traditional seating options and instead just provide your guests with places to sit and snack. You can set up a few tables for those that need them, however, most people can get by with a sturdy plate and a place to sit. This is an economical option for those wedding parties that can't afford tables, place settings and centerpieces.

Seating Option #4 - Head Table Seating Arrangements

Another formal seating arrangement that is popular is to have a head table that looks out at a collection of tables that face the head table. The head table is where the wedding party sits. At the center of this table is the bride and groom. To the right of the bride is her maid or matron of honor and to her bridesmaids and to the left of the groom is his best men and his groomsmen. The rest of the guests are assigned to tables.

Seating Option #5 - Luau Style Seating Arrangements

The final seating option that you have is a luau style seating arrangement. For this option you will layout picnic blankets or long runners on the ground. Food and decorations will be positioned down the center of the runner. People will then sit along the outside edge of the runner. This is a fun option for tropical themed weddings.