WELCOMING BETH BERESFORD

Bruisyard recommended wedding supplier Beth Beresford joins us with some handy advice for your wedding breakfast seating.

Planning your wedding breakfast seating might seem like a straightforward task, but in reality, it's a crucial part of your wedding day's success. The arrangement of your guests can significantly impact the atmosphere and dynamics of the celebration. To help you navigate this important aspect, we've put together a comprehensive guide on how to plan your wedding breakfast seating, ensuring that everyone has a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Create a Guest List

Before diving into the seating arrangement, you need to have a finalised guest list. Make sure you have the names and RSVPs of all your invited guests, along with any dietary restrictions or special requests they may have.

Choose Your Seating Style

Decide on the seating style that best suits your wedding. Common options include:

● Round Tables: Classic and great for promoting conversation.

● Long Tables: Ideal for a communal, family-style atmosphere.

● Mixed Seating: A combination of different table shapes and sizes to add visual interest.

● Lounge Seating: Incorporate cozy lounge areas for a more relaxed vibe.

Determine Table Sizes and Layout

Once you've selected the seating style, work with your venue to decide on table sizes and layouts. Consider the available space, traffic flow, and the number of guests at each table. Ensure that tables are not too crowded or close together. There needs to be enough space to allow for serving of the food and for the photographers to move about during speeches.

Create a Seating Chart

Start drafting a seating chart, which is essentially a visual representation of where each guest will sit. Use online tools or draw it out on paper. Begin with your VIPs (parents, bridal party, close family) and work your way from there. Ensure you're mindful of relationships and comfort. Avoid seating guests who don't get along too closely.

Consider Special Needs

Take into account any special needs or preferences, such as dietary restrictions or physical limitations. Make sure your caterer is aware of these requirements to provide the right meals. Wheelchairs and those with limited mobility need to be seated where they can move freely.

Grouping Strategy

Think about how you'll group your guests. You can group people based on common interests, family ties, or even geographic locations. Try to balance the tables so that there's a mix of personalities and relationships. Decide whether you want to assign specific seats or simply assign tables. While specific seat assignments offer more control, assigning tables is more flexible and can reduce stress.

Table Seating Chart Ideas

If you opt for specific seat assignments, create place cards with the guest's name and table number. For assigned tables, a seating chart displayed near the entrance can guide guests. I have seen lots of incredibly creative options for assigning tables, Pinterest is your best friend here. From names on favours, to polaroids/pictured instead of names.

Be Flexible

Remember that last-minute changes can happen, so be flexible and ready to adjust the seating arrangement as needed. Your goal is to ensure your guests have a great time.

Once the seating plan is set, let go of any worries and enjoy your special day. Trust that your careful planning will result in a joyful and harmonious wedding breakfast. Planning your wedding breakfast seating is a detailed process, but it's well worth the effort. When executed thoughtfully, your seating arrangement can contribute to a warm and enjoyable atmosphere, allowing your guests to celebrate your big day in comfort and style. By following this guide, you'll be well-prepared to create a seating plan that adds to the magic of your wedding celebration.