Open seating plan vs. Assigned tables

Seriously, have a seating chart. You don't need to assign seats but at least assign tables. People always get confused if you don't and, yes, you need around 20% extra tables that way. Without assignments it ends up with people standing around and trying to figure out where to go and it takes forever and people don't like it. It's harder at wedding than at other events because you have people from different families, friends, co-workers, etc. No one wants to sit in the wrong place and it never fails then you have groups that get split up because there isn't enough room for them to sit together anywhere. Not a big deal for some but mom, dad, and 2 kids shouldn't have to split up for the meal.

What types of weddings have you gone to? Were they assigned or open?

Most responses you will get will vote for assigned, because that is most common. However in my circles, I've only been to one wedding with assigned tables. It's more common with my family and friends to not assign seats, so I was comfortable with having an open reception.

What do you think your guests will expect? Do that and make it easier on them.

Welcome to WW! Don't forget to change your avatar to a picture of your choice (instead of the default double rings icon) so that we can get to know you better and to set you apart from all the other people here. You can change it on a desktop computer under My Settings, then Profile & Privacy Settings.

Another vote here for assigned tables. You don't have to assign exact seats, but at least assign tables. Wandering around trying to find somewhere to sit is the worst, especially once the tables start to fill up.

I am doing open seating because we've been having the same problem. I asked the venue for an extra table so people can spread out if they wish

We're doing this. They're assigned a table but not necessarily who they have to sit by...seems easier that way?

We are doing assigned tables. It's just easier - and less to rent if you have to rent tables. For extra tables means extra center pieces. I get super weird when I don't know where to sit.

If you know you have guests who hate each other, assigning tables might be a good idea haha. As for me, I've never been to a wedding where open seating resulted in chaos. But it depends on the crowd. We're not having open seating because literally everyone knows each other! We're all family and/or from the same church. There's no family drama or beef that I'm trying to tiptoe around, I want the intimate almost casual feel of a family get together. Sit where you want, move around when you wish. Of course, we will "reserve" a few tables for family, because I still think family should have their special place closest to the bride and groom.

In not only my circle but everyone else I know their circle also does not include assigned seating. I think the only one I have even seen have assigned seating was a couple of attorneys. Honestly if I did assigned seating I know for a fact that after they would talk behind my back of how I was trying to be better than everyone else.

Assign tables. If you're already having trouble seating people, imagine what it'll be like when they're seating themselves.

I think assigning tables or seats is more thoughtful to guests than free-for-all open seating. If you do a little work now, your guests won't have to worry about finding an open seat or saving spots or anything on the day of.

You know when you read a post and you reeeeeeally hope that responses are going to be in the favor of what you've planned and then they don't? Yeah. Another thing to add to my list is seating charts.. THANKS A BUNCH ladies! (Insert sarcasm font here).

I've only been to one wedding with seating plan & didn't care for it. I've never seen any problems from not having one- especially with so few guests.

I didn't assign seating at my mine and there was not mass chaos. Everyone found a seat just fine. Assign table numbers, not specific seats, if you are worried.

You should do a seating chart, but you don't need assigned seats.

I vote for assigned tables, people may swap later when others are dancing or mingling but initially not knowing where to sit just aggravates me and makes me feel pressured.

Definitely assign tables! Unless you are going to pay for 15-20% more seating (which means extra centerpieces and linens) the last 15-20 people in the door are going to be scattered amongst the empty chairs and families/couples may end up not being able to sit together. Assigned tables are really courteous to your guests and will probably solve a lot of problems with those bitter divorcees.

Yes people do move around after dinner but your job as a gracious host is to make sure everyone can be seated comfortably and with their party for dinner.

I've been wondering this same question so I'm glad I could find it here! Assigned seems better now to reduce chaos.