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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
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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
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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
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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
