Importance of a seating chart?

I would suggest having a seating chart for that number of people. It's less chaotic.

Definitely mandatory unless it is a small reception.

We are assigning tables. I just don't like the thought of having people wonder around like a middle school cafeteria trying to find someone to sit with. Nor do I want people leaving empty seats between them.

As for SO of the wedding party, they'll be sitting with them. Always seat them together.

Do the seating chart & assign tables. You think it's unnecessary pressure on you, imagine how your guests would feel. Wouldn't you rather bite the bullet and do it instead of making your guests uncomfortable? Just do the best you can. Sure you'll prob have that guest or 2 that doesn't like who they are with, you can't please everyone. You won't be splitting up famuly/friends. There's a good chance that'll happen if there left to fend for themselves. There will be 1 seat here, one there. It'll get chaotic because people will be saving seats. Just a giant headache.

I started one, even though my weddings not until May. All I will need to do is switch a few things around if/when I get RSVP no's. It's really not stressful or hard to do.