Wedding seating etiquette: who sits where
Traditions vary by culture and family, so treat these as common conventions, not rules.
- Head or sweetheart table. The couple, sometimes with the wedding party. A sweetheart table (just the two of you) avoids splitting partners of the wedding party.
- Parents and grandparents. Close to the couple, with a good view. Divorced or separated parents often each host their own table near the front.
- Plus-ones and partners. Seat them together, even if only one of them knows the couple well.
- Children. Young children with their parents; older children may enjoy their own table near their parents.
- Older guests. Away from speakers, close to restrooms, with easy access.
- Guests who know nobody. With welcoming, sociable people who share an interest.
- People who don't get along. Different tables, not in each other's sightline if you can help it.