How to make a seating chart

A good seating chart makes guests feel looked after and keeps the evening running smoothly. Here is a simple order of work that suits weddings, parties and classrooms.

Open the tool: Seating Chart Generator

1. Count seats before names

Get the final number of tables and chairs from the venue first. Ask for the floor plan and note the dance floor, bar, speakers and exits, since those affect who should sit where.

2. Seat the VIPs, then the groups

Place the couple or host, then parents and close family, then groups that already know each other. Fill gaps with single guests and plus-ones last.

3. Handle the tricky ones

Keep feuding relatives at different tables, but not in a way that makes it obvious. Seat guests who know nobody next to a sociable friend.

Rough table sizes

  • 48 in round: 4 to 6 guests.
  • 60 in round: 8 guests.
  • 72 in round: 10 guests.
  • 6 ft banquet: 6 to 8 guests.
  • 8 ft banquet: 8 to 10 guests.