SUITABLY SEATED

Please be seated

THE CURRENT REQUIREMENT FOR GUESTS TO BE MOSTLY SEATED AT WEDDING CELEBRATIONS IS NOW A THING, AND THERE IS EVERY REASON WHY THIS CAN WORK REALLY WELL.

Seated weddings may not be particularly popular in Malta, we are naturally gregarious and finger food and huge buffets are generally the preferred choice when planning a wedding.But whenseated weddings do take place here, especially when one of the couple is from a country where they are normal and traditional, local guests are usually well impressed. And it is now clearthat lots more couples willmake the same choice,especially for smaller weddings, even after restrictions are lifted.

The advantages are many. Not all guests want or are able to spend almost an entire wedding on their feet. The extra care and attention that obviously goes into choosing and serving a sit-down meal inevitably makes guests feel more spoilt and special. And there is an added sense of occasion, as they gather in specially chosen groups, at beautifully laid tables, to enjoy a celebratory feast.

WHO SITS WHERE

Lasting anything up to two or three hours, a wedding meal is an important part of the celebration. Choosing who sits where is one of the most important decisions a couple will need to make about their reception. Deciding who to place where is up to each couple and requires extreme tact, patience and a sense of humour.

Of course the ‘top table’ will be for the bride and groom,the bride’s parents, the groom’s parents, the best man and chief bridesmaid, other honoured guests can be included depending on space.

In the case of step-parents, they may also be included or be seated with other family members or friends. You will also need to decide whether to mix bride and groom’s family members, or have separate table for both families.

For placing guests on the other tables consider if they are the type of people who enjoy mixing and meeting others or those who prefer to be with people whom they already know.

Whether to mix friends and work colleagues entirely depends on your job description and the depth of you friends’ loyalty. It could work well or separate tables may be better.

Never have a table dedicated to single guests. It can be awkward enough turning up at an essentially couples event without being singled out that way. If you have a ‘no plus one’ policy seat single guests with those who have similar interests, or mutual friends, or with the bridesmaids and groomsmen, who are well placed to make them feel welcome. Older guests on their own would probably appreciate being seated with members of the family who invited them –bride or groom’s.

Children are another matter. Older ones can have a special table equipped to keep them there for the duration of the meal. And good luck with that. Alternatively hire some of those miracle makers who keep children entertained in their own special party area while the adults get on with the celebrating.

And, however you juggle your seating arrangements these points always apply.

It is definitely a good idea to separate friends and family members you know do not get on with each other.

Don’t mix age groups on the same table, except whole family members.

PERFECT SETTINGS

Round tables should always be the choice if the venue is suitable, especially as they can easily seat an odd number, and they feel that bit more friendly. For long tables couples should sit opposite, or nearly opposite each other. The rule of seating men and women alternately is usual but it’s also fine to have same sexes sitting side by side too.

The tables closest to the couple should be for family and closest friends.

There are any number of fun ways to save your friends the mad dash to find their table. Use your wedding theme and colours for inspiration to choose names or numbers for each table.

Set up a prominent list or chart to show guests where their table is and on each table put name cards on each place setting. It’s a good idea to print the names on each side so guests can see who’s who and introduce themselves,if necessary.

Remember to give your caterer a copy of your seating plan, pointing out guests who have special menu requirements to make it easier for waiting staff.

Don’t forget to give a copy of your seating plan to the staff as well in this case.