For any seated dinner–even a buffet–consider incorporating a seating chart. If you only reserve tables for the wedding party and parents/siblings, you could still leave family “out in the cold”. A seating chart will keep “chatty Cousin Carriee” away from anyone who might find her overbearing. It also keeps “drunk Uncle Elbert ” from sitting with your fiance’s college buddies. In addition, a seating chart gives you the chance to ensure that your friends will meet one another instead of just spending time with people they already know. A thoughtful hostess will put people with similar interests together so they will have something to talk about.

The seating chart does not need to be complex or elaborate. It also doesn’t have to be the laborious chore it was when our mothers got married.

recommends Simple Seating dot com. This nifty and affordable ($0-$45, depending on your needs) program will allow you to import your guest list, play with table sizes/shapes/arrangements, track RSVPs and headcount, and places guests in the exact seat you want them to have. If seating charts are this easy, then why not create one?

The latest advice we’ve seen suggests that you avoid having a “singles” table. While your single friends may appreciate the chance to know exactly what guys there are not attached, it’s usually an uncomfortable situation for all of them. Instead, put single people at tables with families of 3 or 5. Or, work in two single people at a table of couples.

Finally, be sure to factor in a kids table if children are invited into the main reception room. Kids are usually quite bored at weddings. Be sure to include activities, toys, and games that are quiet and will keep them interested.

will be happy to help you sort your guests into smaller groups that will make nice groupings at your event. We also have a wide variety of ideas for making a kids’ area special and entertaining for them.