How to choose the perfect seating chart display for your wedding

Choosing a seating chart for your wedding is an important – and often exciting – task! As a wedding calligrapher, I take seating charts pretty seriously (more than you might expect!). You want something beautiful, but you also want to create something simple enough that guests can actually find their seat easily (especially with a larger guest list!). At Write Pretty for Me, seating charts are by far one of the most popular inclusions in my day of wedding details packages. Today, I want to walk you through choosing YOUR perfect seating chart display!

Do you want your seating chart to be a statement piece?

When it comes to selecting a seating chart design for your big day, it’s important to consider whether or not you’re aiming to make a bold statement with it. Now, it’s highly unlikely that every single aspect of your wedding will be an extravagant showstopper – and that’s totally okay! There’s a certain charm and elegance in having a few simple, understated elements nestled amongst the grandeur of your wedding reception decor. So, while it might be tempting to go all out and create an over-the-top seating chart that catches everyone’s eye (and I will NEVER say no to a statement piece), remember that a more subtle design can be just as beautiful and effective.

Where will your seating chart be set up at your venue?

When you’re in the process of choosing a seating chart design, I always encourage my couples to keep the venue and its location in mind. Outdoor wedding venues, in particular, present unique challenges (you need to select a design that is sturdy and capable of withstanding the elements, for example!). While I do always believe “where there is a will, there is a way”, I will always try to create design options that work “with” your venue space and not against it!

Do you want your seating chart to do “double duty”?

While we might be veering into escort card territory here (learn the differences here!), when couples come to me asking for advice on choosing their seating chart I always ask them if they want their seating chart to do “double duty”. Do you want guests to grab something tangible, that could possibly double as a wedding favor, to lead them to their seat? Anything is possible!

Do you want something you can repurpose after?

When it comes to wedding seating charts, what’s often overlooked is the fact that you can keep your design piece forever and never forget the day, even after it’s over. Mirrors make for a great seating chart design, as they are both customizable and reusable. When the wedding is over, all you need to do is erase the names and then you’re left with a timeless piece of decor. This way, not only do your guests experience how thoughtful and creative you are but your wedding will remain close to heart and home for years—without needing to be packed away in a box!

Choosing your Seating Chart Design

At the end of the day, it’s worth taking your time and deciding on a seating chart design you truly love. It’s one of the only pieces of decor on your wedding day every single guest will interact with. When done wrong, you can start to see lines of anxious guests not knowing where to go next or waiting for their turn to find their seats. When done well, it’s one of your guest’s first impressions into a night they will never forget.

If you are looking for someone to help you curate all of your wedding day of details (including your dream seating chart), connect with me here! I would be honored. Still looking for inspiration? I always share my latest works over on Instagram so be sure to follow me there!