Sure steps to figuring out your seating plan

photo credit: t-fairygodmotherofweddings.tumblr.com

Though seating plans are not yet a major tradition in Trinidad and Tobago, for a wedding larger than a small informal reception a seating plan will make all the difference between chaos and almost certainly helping your reception run more smoothly.

Benefits of having a seating Plan 

One of the definite benefits of having a seating plan is saving your guests the heartache of trying to find a seat with their family and friends. Additionally you get the opportunity to ensure that your guests are seated where they will be at their happiest before the wedding actually begins. You definitely wont have time to address issues with seating during your wedding. And when in doubt there is always the mantra of happy guests equals a happy couple.

When to start planning your seating 

photo credit: Confetti, Ireland's sassiest classiest bridal site

As soon as you have your guest list completed you should start thinking of your seating plan. Begin by conducting a site visit specific to addressing your layout. Get come feedback from the venue coordinator about the best seating arrangements for the number of guests you are expecting. Then you can go back to the drawing board and create your own plan.

Identify the areas for reserved seating and general seating. You should also indicate the locations for your stage, DJ and speakers, buffet tables and guest signing or entrance layout.

Tools you may need 

You will need a large pad or sheet of Bristol board, lots of pencils, some post its and a lot of patience as there definitely will be numerous revisions to the initial plan. Be prepared for that, and do not be discouraged. If you are technology savvy, spare the paper and the headache and use Microsoft Excel or an online wedding seating plan. Here is a free online plan that is very useful Wedding Wire seating chart tool

photo credit: tietheknot.co.za

Seating Singles 

Rule of thumb, never have a table dedicated to singles, its very awkward for the persons who are single. It is always better to mix it up and give people the chance to mingle. Singles should be seated among couples and families. But remember seating someone at a table where they know no-one is a no no.

Bickering Family 

photo credit: carol-miller-designs.wordpress.com

There is always a point of contention where a many are gathered. Please do not have misconceptions that seating two or more persons who may not have agreed in the past will be willing to be civil for one day. Always be realistic about what can happen. 

Identifying Tables 

There are various ways of simplifying the task of locating your table. Traditionally there is the number system... but that's so boring :). Why not try naming your table according to your theme. Make it a fun task where you and your fiance or your girl friends can come up with name that relates to your theme but are totally reflective of your personality. 

Things to keep in mind 

• it proves helpful to have a list of persons assigned to a table rather than assigning them to seats as this allows for mingling. 
• Elderly persons or persons with hearing problems probably wont enjoy seating next to the speakers. 
• Do not sit the elderly with very young children 
• Pregnant women may prefer being close to the bathrooms 
• Divorced persons should not be seated with their former spouses.
• Disabled persons will need appropriate access and accommodations 
• Assign a table where your wedding service providers can eat and rest. It does not have to be among your guest tables. 
• Have an extra table for last minute RSVPs
• Have a seating table at the entrance along with a responsible person to help guests locate their names 
• Mix both sides of the new family so that everyone gets to know each other 

Transition from church to sexy reception dress with one gown

"Edwina by www.sotteroandmidgley.com

So, I have started scouting designer trends for 2013 and i have seen some really fabulous gowns, including one that went from floor length to sexy tube dress by a simple detachment. But in my search I came across this 2012 dress that absolutely caught my eye. I will classify it as simple elegance with the options of conservative and soft elegance all in one.

I fell in love with a dress, yes I did. It provides two different looks, a conservative look that is very adequate for a church wedding. And for the bride who wants to kick back at her reception with a sexy neckline, she certainly can.

Let me introduce you to Chelsa, designed by Maggie Sottero

Description

Lace on Point d'Esprit, vintage inspired copelet provides couture panache to this classic lace silhouette. a detachable grosgrain belt with Swarovski crystal embellishment adds a radiant richness to the natural waist. fitted sheath with scalloped neckline finished with corset closure.

Its available in White/White belt, White/Black Belt, Ivory/Ivory Belt, Ivory/Black belt

Available at

Another great point is that it is available in Trinidad and Tobago. Sottero and Midgeley gowns are available at

Brides and Grooms, 

Maraval, 

Port of Spain,

 they can be contacted at (868) 310-0250 

OR 

VS Fashions 

Frederick Street, 

Port of Spain 

(868) 624-5992

HAPPY SHOPPING

Litisha

"What to do first" How to plan your wedding without breaking the bank Vol 1

This is the first in the series "What to do first". 

We all know the excitement that comes with the idea of planning your wedding. We brides tend to look at all the fun stuff such as dress, decor, visuals and finding the perfect location to say "I do" to the man we love. 


Sorry, but I must bring you back to reality, and fast. This series helps you to put into perspective the first things that should be done to start the planning process. I will walk you through all areas in this five part series which will include your budget, guest count, location, style season/time of day. 


Today we are tackling the big one, the daunting task of balancing your style with your pocket putting into perspective what you can actually afford. In these tough economic times we are all trying to save a buck where ever possible, follow these tips to keep yourself from breaking your bank. 


Identify your guest count and stick to it.
I know it sound harsh, and for some this will be a very hard task especially in Trinidad and Tobago, where everybody knows everyone, but do you really need to invite all these people to your wedding. A good tip is to invite only your close family and friends. Because of how daunting this task is there is a whole segment dedicated to it :)


Serve a signature drink.
Instead of an open bar with every brand of liquor you can think about, serve one or two signature cocktails. This will allow you to control the bar budget, you can also choose to serve wine and soft drinks only. (No I am not crazy)


Ask for help 
Don't be afraid to ask for a helping hand. I am not talking about cash favors, but your relatives and friends may be able to assist in more ways than your thought. Does your Auntie have great skills baking, she might be able to assist with the deserts as a wedding gift to you. Maybe some of your friends can assist with a DIY project, make it into a "girls lime" and get the job done. (for my international readers liming is our local slang for hanging out). But I am sure you get the picture, the possibilities are endless. 


Hire a Wedding Planner
While many couples are fine with planning their own wedding, in some cases it makes perfect sense to hire a wedding planner. A good wedding planner, though charging a fee of their own can knock off thousands off your wedding budget. I will expand on this topic in another post. 

Last and by no means least of all - DO THE MATH. In order to stay within boundaries you have to actually set a budget. identify how much you are willing to spend in total. Once you have set a cap on spending evaluate your priorities. It's always helpful to have a budgeting tool to track your spending. Please remember to set a 10% buffer, miscellaneous, unexpected expenses, what ever you want to call it, it is always there. Trust me no matter how precise you think your figures are there is always the unexpected. As my favorite and top wedding planner, David Tutera, would say 8 to 10 couples go over their budget. don't be in the 8 be in the 2 and have that 10% buffer. Feel free to contact for a copy of my budget spreadsheet to guide you along.


Happy Planning 


Litisha 

Did you enjoy these tips, 

I will love to have your feedback and comments below. 

Why Visit Trinidad and Tobago

A wonderful look at what my beautiful islands have to offer. I am sorry I just can't live anywhere else, take a look 

This video is a promotional video produced by the Tourism Development Company of Trinidad and Tobago. 


Call your travel agent today to book your trip. For Wedding Plans you can contact us at LHT Emerge Events and Wedding Planning or contact us via our webpage