Guest seating-long family style tables

Usually people say assign a table...but I would probably assign seats in this case if the tables are that long.

I personally prefer to be seated next to FH and not across from him...it makes it easier to talk to him!

Assign seats, and sit couples next to each other.

I would want to sit next to my FH. Assign seats

Absolutely do seating chart in this case! I agree with couples next to each other.

We are having this and are assigning tables, not seats. And I would assume couples sit next to each other.

My tables are table of 6-10, one is 20 people but they all know each other which is the only reason why they are grouped that way.

I would also assign seats with tables that big. And have couples next to each other.

Normally I'd say just assign tables, but with that many people at a table, I'd make an exact seating chart and have it on display before they go to the tables and then have placecards on the table. And sit couples next to each other.

They look like big tables to just assign tables. Maybe not all the tables are big. One thing you can consider is to divide up table into sections, separating with a ribbon, etc. Then label each section with a letter, number, name, etc. So people get assigned to a section.

We're doing long tables and assigning seats. We'll have a seating chart that tells our guests which table they will be at and then they will find their place card at their seat.

Our tables average 22 people (10-11 each side) so i think while it is one long table, we'll split it up so maybe one literal table has 2 numbers assigned to it -- one on each end. That way guests only have to search through 10 or fewer seats to find where they are placed. I didn't want guests having to meander up and down either side of a 20-foot table looking for their name.

ETA: We opted for assigned seats because unlike a round table, long tables have more room for error and people needing to shuffle around. For example what if they get to the table and there's one seat on the end and another far away at the other end that haven't been claimed yet. No couple wants to be separate during dinner OR have to ask 8 other people to shift around to another side of the table so they have two seats next to each other. I don't want our guests feeling like they're playing musical chairs.

Assign tables and have couples next to each other

Assign seats and place couples next to each other. BTW this is my favorite set up for wedding seating.

Yes assign seating otherwise there may be gaps between groups forcing others to be separated to fill in spaces. I agree with others seat couples next to each other.

Traditionally couples would sit across from each other. I love sitting next to my spouse but am use to being sat across from at events. Also, tradition is boy girl boy girl. But my big question with the "family" style long table seating is where would you place the bride and groom? Next to each other at the head of the table?