Seating wedding guests can have its pitfalls. Make sure you're in the know, read our handy guide and have all the information you need to be the perfect host.

So you've got all your wedding RSVP's and you've decided on and booked the venue for your reception now you just need to decide how you are going to seat everyone. Whether you're having a small or large wedding you'll need to consider the etiquette of seating so that you don't offend any of your guests.

Groups
Make sure to seat anyone who replied together on the same table. If you want a head table, consider that the spouses of the people on the head table will need to be seated on a table nearby.

Cater To Guests
If you have any elderly people consider where they are sat in relation to speakers. Pregnant or those unable to move around easily may like to have easy access to the toilet. Also if you are expecting last minute RSVP's then allow space for a table to accommodate these people.

Be Logical & Informal
If you decide to number your tables do so in a logical order. An alternative is to give a name to each table and rather than assigning seats just assign a table to allow guests to mingle, decide where they want to be and minimize confusion.

Preparation
Make your job easier by making a plan of the room where your reception will be held with all the tables as they will be on the day. Use computer software or just a pencil and paper; whatever is easier.

Be sure to give someone at your wedding venue a copy of your table diagram and the list of assignments in case there are any questions.
Write each guest's or couple's name on an individual card, along with the appropriate table number, and place these cards near the entrance to let people know where they should sit.

Etiquette
Seat immediate family at the tables closest to the bridal table. Parents of the bride and groom can sit together. If they are divorced seat them at separate tables. A good rule when arranging your seating is to sit people with at least one other person they already know. An idea is to sit couples with other couples and have other tables for singles.