Seating might be the hardest part.

Figuring out the seating chart of a wedding can truly be the hardest part. Many people have different tactics on how to do this and some just don't bother and have open seating. Here are a few tips for you on what to do when creating your seating chart!

2. Step1
   Familiarize yourself with the layout of the venue so that you are aware of how seating is arranged. Use a large piece of paper to sketch out each table taking into account its size and how many seats it can handle. In order to seat elderly guests, be sure to draw in where the DJ or band will be performing, exit points, disabled entrances and access to restrooms. If you're feeling stuck, a quick visit to the venue and a chat to your wedding organizer will soon get you back on the planning track.
3. Step2
   Assign each table a title. Some brides prefer to number their tables (1, 2, etc) however if you have a theme for your special day why not let this be reflected in your seating by naming your table. For instance, if you are Beatles fans (like we are here at All You Need Is Love), you could name your tables after song titles!
4. Step3
   Create a list on another sheet of paper which lists your table titles as well as the number of seats available at each table. Many a-time a bride has created a group of 12 that she'd like to sit together, only to find out her tables can only seat 10. This list will save you this disappointment.
5. Step4
   Gather your RSVP cards and start classing your guests. This is where multi-colored Post-It notes and a bit of OCD can come in handy. Color-coding your guests into groups: family, work colleagues, childhood friends, family friends, etc. Doing this will allow you to group people appropriately. Simply write each guest's name on a post-it that indicates their relationship to you and your groom. Using post-it notes will allow you to move guests easily. My favorite kind of post-its for this are the page markers like these:
   
   
   Alternatively, shop around for one of the many seating plan packages available on the internet. They are relatively inexpensive and will allow you to make updates easily to your plan as guest numbers fluctuate. I think that in the end it depends on how computer savvy you are and how visually you need to see things. 
6. Step5
   Put family first. Many of your guests will be relations and should be seated first to whittle down your seating dilemmas. Family should be seated as close to the head table as possible. If there are odd numbers within family groups, consider mixing up the family tables to include members of the bride's and groom's families. This will allow them the chance to get to know one another better as they will probably be meeting over the years to attend christenings, housewarmings and other of those family events!
7. Step6

   
   

Elderly guests require special attention. To maximise their enjoyment, avoid seating them close to loud speakers,young children, or the "bar". If possible sit them close to exits, amenities and disabled access points.

1. Step7
   Aim for an even gender split at all tables so that there are equal numbers of men and women sitting together. As TD always tells me, men speak way less than women so we want to equalize the talking:)
2. Step8
   Seat children under 8 at the same table as their parents. If a number of children over 8 are expected, set aside a table specifically for them. Older children (14 +) may prefer to sit with others in their age group and depending on your numbers you can create a table specifically for them. However, if there are only a few then sit them among adult tables, but not necessarily with their parents
3. Step9
   Take care not to sit ex-spouses or those involved in disputes too close to one another. This can reduce any awkwardness which may arise.
4. Step10
   When dealing with singles, try not to isolate them by sitting them together. As tempting as it may be to play matchmaker (Kristy) do so subtlely by placing them at tables with other singles, couples and families.
5. Step11
   Assign two tables as empty. These don't necessarily need to be in a priority location. One should be used for your photographer, band, DJ and other hired help to rest and eat during their breaks. The other should be on hand for any guests which turn up at the wedding unexpectedly. Keeping these tables available will reduce any last minute headaches! This is not to say that they will be used on the final day. But it allows for some movement if need be.
6. Step12
   Once your plan is complete, prepare a large seating diagram which shows the list of seating assignments. This should be on hand at the venue in case of any problems on the day (aka GIVE TO YOUR COORDINATOR)
7. Step13
   Create table number (or name) signs. Explain to your wedding coordinator clearly how your table labels work and where each sign should be placed.
8. Step14
   Write up your place cards once your plan is complete. For a personal touch, add a handwritten note inside each card such as: "Thank you for coming such a long way to join us in our special day". While it may take longer, your guests will appreciate your effort.
9. Step15
   As soon as your placecards are written up, alphabetize them. When you present them to your coordinator explain clearly that they are in order and should be set out this way. If any fall then the coordinator can place them back in order. Setting cards out alphabetically will save guests time in locating their seats. It will also prevent any unnecessary panics among guests that they have been forgotten as they can't find their place card among the sea of cards.