What age do you consider a "baby" for a seating chart and planning for food?

Every butt should have a seat, baby or not. I would ask the parents if they need a meal.

We did high chairs for babies that were old enough and for younger babies we gave them a chair so parents could set their carrier down. For food we asked the parents. We provided kids meals for all kids that were old enough.

I agree—while the baby might spend most of their time on someone’s lap, they should still have a seat so their parents have somewhere to put the carrier, diaper bag, etc.

’d say for meals, they get a plate if they’re 1 year old or over—that’s generally the age when milk stops being their primary food source. Younger than that and they’ll probably just pick at things off their parents’ plates and/or their parents will pack them some baby-safe snacks. If you’re unsure, though, just ask the parents what they think.

PP's have it covered. You should provide an actual chair or high chair for every baby, no matter the age. Just ask the parents what kiddos would prefer to eat.

Not really a direct answer to your question, but I put a "Tiny human-no meal required" option for food on our webiste.

I reached out to every parent with kids under 3 to see if they wanted a high chair or regular seat, and if the kid wanted a kids meal. There was a seat for every guest, baby or not, just some had high chairs.

I'll go with the airline rule on this one and say that children 2 and up need their own chair at the reception.

Ask your caterer what they consider a child. They should give a child’s price for food. Ours is 12 and under, however we have some people coming who are a little older and either don’t eat much or are very picky so I will be counting them as a child

Hmmm I would say probably 6 and under?