Do you need both? Either?
One of the things my clients and I go back and forth on is seating! I get a lot of “should I do a seating chart? But I like individual place cards, too…” My answer every time is - it’s up to you! There are benefits to both. And depending on your personal style and even your venue’s vibe, one will fit better than the other. Or if you wanted to go BIG - you could definitely do both 😉 Maybe these tips will help you decide:
Place Cards
Place cards are so versatile! Not only can they double as wedding favors, they can be put together to make a seating chart of sorts at the entrance to your reception so you don’t even have to decide. Also, you have the option to truly make them out of anything. Go with classic marble hexagons or handmade paper to match pretty much any style. For a modern look you might choose acrylic shapes or terra cotta pieces. Or, you can go completely out of the box with engraved wine glasses (such a great wedding favor) or something never done before. Truly your options are limitless with place cards so if you want to get super creative - these could be the best option for you. Place cards also have an advantage when it comes to pricing. Many brides opt for place cards just for their head table or immediate family. This saves you some room in your budget without having to sacrifice a detail you want to have.
Seating Charts
I don’t even need to tell you how elegant seating charts are if you found this blog post - you already know. Such a statement piece! Also a great way for guests to stop and talk and admire one of the details that you spent so much time and effort on. Seating charts are ideal for medium to larger weddings as you have more guests to accommodate and probably assigned seating to keep everything running smooth. Seating charts also give you an opportunity to go super glam. The bigger the better with these! You can opt for a beautiful ornate mirror or grouping of mirrors (which bonus - you can put in your home afterwards. The names can be removed) or a giant acrylic piece with or without a wooden stand. These both look amazing draped in your florist’s handiwork. Seating charts definitely work for more intimate weddings too. A table top sign on an easel looks great next to your guestbook.
All of this to say - personally I think one or the other are definitely something you should factor into your signage and calligraphy budget! In all the weddings I’ve had the honor of being a part of, I’ve gotten feedback from couples and their guests that seeing their name done up on a seating chart or a place card was one of their favorite details. Your guests are so special to you and either of these options are a great way to show them the love.
