Assigned tables

If you are assigning tables, it should be all or nothing. It may come across a certain way if you assign some people tables and not others. Also, I'm always pro assigned tables. If people want to move later, they are free to do so. However, it saves people the awkward scrambling of trying to keep immediate families/couples together or people saving seats. It also allows you to make sure grandma doesn't get seated right next to the DJ's speakers, etc.

I'd just assign tables I agree with the above comment it stops the awkward of saving seats and ending up with oddball numbers.

Assign tables and after dinner they can mingle and move where they want. It’s to help keep organized.

I’m assigning seats for the long family table we are having, but just assigning tables for all other guests (having about 200 people total) The reason I’m assigning seats for family is because there will be about 35 people total with both of our families and I really don’t want any drama with people saving seats and not getting to sit next to their loved ones. Also so I can place family members with other members I know they get along with. Me and FH will be at a sweetheart table, but I just think this will ease my nerves about possible drama. I’d also hate for people on either side to argue about who sits closest to me and FH’s table (yes, some are that petty). I say do whatever will ease your mind. It’s just an hour for dinner so they only have to sit there to eat.

How about adding a sign on the table that says "reserved for brides family" "reserved for grooms family "

View Quoted Comment Yeah I like that idea I think I will do that, thank you!

I would do assigned tables for everyone. This will prevent empty seats at any tables and prevent couples/families from getting split up. If people want to move from their seat as the night goes on, that is on them. But without assigned tables, your reception will turn into a cluster.