Tableplans

Most wedding reception table layouts have a long top table for the bridal party and round tables for the guests. A round top table is usually avoided as the bride and grooms' view would be obscured by others on the table, and several of the bridal party would have their backs to other guests. The bridal party traditionally comprises of the bride and groom, the bride and grooms natural parents, the best man and chief bridesmaid.

Even where the parents are separated, remarried or divorced, it is still usual for only the natural parents to sit at the top table. Other family members, such as step-parents, are not part of the traditional bridal party but are treated as honoured guests. As honoured guests, they should be given importance by being seated on a table close to the top table. An honoured guests' table is a good place to sit bridesmaids and ushers, so they would join stepparents, and partners of separated parents, on this special table. It is best to sit young bridesmaids and page boys with their parents.

Top table seating arrangement for the traditional bridal party

Chief Bridesmaid>Grooms Father>Bride's Mother>Groom>Bride>Bride's Father>Grooms Mother>Best Man

If this seating arrangement does not suit your circumstances, alter it bearing in mind that it is usual for the bride and groom to sit in the middle of the top table, and for the gender of those seated to alternate. It is also usual that the hosts of the wedding, whoever they may be, are seated at the top table. With divorced or separated parents, ask them what they would like to happen.

Guest seating arrangements

Your close family and friends should be seated nearest the top table. If you have round tables, seat guests with partners side by side. If you are having long tables, partners are usually seated opposite each other. It is customary to alternate male and female guests and for children to be seated with their parents.

Make your guests feel more comfortable and relaxed by seating them with people they know or have something in common. Group similar ages together such as aunts and uncles, friends, work colleagues etc.

Every table plan is created for you, incorporating the colours and the design elements from the rest of your wedding stationery. If you have an unusual layout or additional requirements, please email us your information and we will do our best to accommodate you. We supply your table plan mounted, so that it can be displayed easily. We require up to 4 weeks to process your order. Prices are show on the prices page.