February 26, 2025 • 17 mins
Don't let wedding ceremony seating arrangements stress you out!
This podcast is for engaged couples who are stressed out with wedding planning and family expectations but want a fun wedding day.
Sal and Sam, discuss innovative seating arrangements and tips for guests to enjoy and feel comfortable, especially for outdoor wedding ceremonies.
Firstly, you'll learn about split circular and spiral designs, which ensure comfort with ample space between rows. Furthermore, you'll understand why providing varied seating options for all guests, including the elderly and VIPs is crucial.
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:00):
Are you dreaming of a wedding ceremonywhere every guest feels perfectly
comfortable, welcomed, and able tofully experience your magical moment.
Seating might seem like a smalldetail, but it can make or break your
guest's entire wedding experience.
Thank you for joining us.
Hi, I'm Sal from AfterHours Events in New England.
We'll answer these questions andmore in today's edition of the
(00:23):
Stress-free Wedding Planning Podcast.
Welcome to another edition of our podcast.
Hi, I'm Sam from Atmosphere Productions.
Listen now and discover weddingceremony seating secrets every
engaged couple must know.
These are Wedding Insider Secrets fora stress free, fun, and memorable day.
Our podcast helps engaged couplesnavigate wedding planning complexities
(00:48):
while addressing family expectations.
We will guide you through the journeyof creating the perfect wedding
day without unnecessary stress.
By the end of this edition, you'llget concise tips on budgeting,
wedding party management, ceremony,reception planning, and more.
Perfect.
for anyone planning a wedding,all in 30 minutes or less.
(01:09):
Trust us, you don't want to miss this.
Welcome to Stress Free WeddingPlanning, the podcast that will
transform your wedding planningjourney from chaotic to enchanting.
Sal and Sam bring over 80 years ofcombined wedding expertise and exclusive
insider information to the table.
If you're recently engaged, feelingthe pressure of wedding planning,
Struggling with family expectations, butstill dreaming of a joy filled wedding.
(01:33):
You've come to the right place.
Get ready to unveil the best kept weddingsecrets, discover practical tips and
strategies, and learn life changinglessons for a stress free wedding.
Your unforgettable wedding day awaits.
We're here to take you on a transformativejourney of love, laughter, and memories.
So don't miss out on the podcastthat just might change your life.
(01:53):
This is the Stress-free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam.
On today's podcast, weddingceremony seating secrets every
engaged couple must know.
Whether you're planning anintimate backyard celebration
or a grand ballroom affair.
The right seating strategy cantransform your ceremony from simply
beautiful to absolutely unforgettable.
(02:15):
Hi, I'm Sal from After Hours Events, NewEngland, the experts at creating a stress
free unforgettable wedding experience.
We bring energy, professionalism,and a passion to making every
couple's day truly special.
Visit us at After HoursEvents of NE dot com.
Learn more about our experienceand journey to help you with
stress free wedding planning in thetrailer or pilot of this podcast.
(02:38):
Before the end of today's edition.
We'll walk you through expert tipsthat'll help you create a seating
arrangement that ensures your lovedones are not just spectators, but
active participants in your love story.
Hi, I'm Sam from the award winningAtmosphere Productions, wedding
entertainment with expert knowledgeand the difference in quality.
(02:59):
Visit us at Atmospherehyphen Productions dot com.
Today's edition, weddingceremony, seating secrets.
Every engaged couple must know.
From managing sight lines to providingcomfort for every guest, today's insights
will help you and craft a wedding ceremonylayout that reflects your unique style
while keeping everyone relaxed, engaged,and focused on the most important
(03:23):
thing, your commitment to each other.
Get ready to discover how thoughtfulwedding ceremony seating can elevate your
day from wonderful to truly extraordinary.
Firstly, creative seating arrangements,Sam, what have you been seeing out there?
Well, we've seen differentstyles of seating arrangement.
But firstly, let's explain.
(03:44):
Traditionally, there are two rows.
Again, you imagine if you're doing achurch or a synagogue or even an outdoor
ceremony, typically there's an aisledown the middle and left and right sides.
That's the traditional setup, but don'tbe afraid to think outside the box.
(04:05):
Here are some unique ideas.
Have you thought about splitcircular seating and that is a
circle, but cut into four quarters.
And then you'll create multipleaisles that lead to the middle.
How about arranging the chairs informal clusters for more casual feel.
Again, you can have multiple aisles.
(04:26):
You don't just have to have the oneor create a spiral seating arrangement
for an intimate, cozy wedding.
That is, the couple would walk in aspiral in order to get to the center.
You can also have circular seating.
Again, the couple in the center.
Now you might be seeing a trend here,where the center is where the couple end
(04:50):
up and the guests are all the way around.
That's the best viewing.
Everybody gets "the good seat".
Everybody gets to see exactly what'shappening because it's happening
in the middle and not at one end.
I know some of this sounds kindof awkward because you're just not
used to seeing this type of thing,but this is something that really
(05:11):
gives a good sightline for everyone.
So everyone truly does have a good seat.
I just want to remind everyone, you canalso join us on our YouTube channel.
Just search for Stress-free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam.
Subscribe and get it first.
Next up, you have to think aboutproviding ample space for seating.
(05:34):
So when you're planning your ceremonyseating, it really is essential that
you consider the comfort of the guests.
Here are three examples.
Allow at least 24 inchesbetween the chair rows.
That way people have a good seatingposition when they are sitting down.
(05:55):
They're not scrunched uplike you are on an airplane.
Secondly, for outdoor ceremony,space the rows evenly and
a little bit further apart.
So that you're not cramped.
Thirdly, the first row, and thisis important, should be at least
six feet away from where the couplewill be standing to give their vows.
(06:18):
This is very important because the weddingparty is also going to stand up there too.
So you don't want them toall be cramped together.
And here's another pro tip for you.
You know, those front row seats thatare out there in front of the ceremony.
Those are for specific peoplelike parents and grandparents.
So don't worry about seating foryour wedding party because they're
(06:40):
typically standing up there withyou through the whole thing.
So there's no reasonto worry about seating.
And they should also know thatthey're going to be standing so
they don't try to take a seat.
That's right, Sal.
So remember, you only need to order chairsif you're doing an outdoor ceremony, if
the wedding party is going to be seated.
(07:00):
That's right.
So sometimes you may not have thewedding party standing next to you.
Then you need to order chairs sothat they sit in the very front row.
Great, great pro tip.
Next up is another important factor andthat's offering varied seating options.
Yes, Sam.
It doesn't have to be thetraditional white chair.
(07:22):
It could be a variety of different things,but something I do want to point out.
You may have some elderly guests.
So you're going to want a very specificseat for them to be comfortable.
Sometimes a chair with arms onit is very comfortable for them.
And also if you have someone with awheelchair leaving the proper space
for that person to have all the roomthat they need in front of them, behind
(07:43):
them and on the side of them so thatthey're feeling very comfortable.
Bench seats is something that you could doto keep it kind of traditional to almost
like a church feel, but at the venue orat another site that you have chosen.
So, Sam, something that's more uniqueis something called floor seating.
This is where you have rugs or even haybales for a relaxed barn or bohemian vibe.
(08:06):
For VIP guests or family members.
You might want to set up a few rows ofPremium seating, such as padded chairs
Yes, Sal, that's the vibe we'retrying to explain, that you offer
some different type of seating.
You don't just have to have theregular white chairs that you
might see at every single wedding.
(08:28):
So we've just explained offeringvaried seating options, providing
ample seating space and creatingdifferent seating arrangements.
Coming up next, considering sightline andacoustics plus accessibility and comfort.
But first, if you have a questionor concern, go now to Facebook and
join us on the stress free weddingplanning community and ask away.
(08:49):
You can also join uson our YouTube channel.
Just search for Stress-free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam.
Subscribe and get it first.
This is the Stress Free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam, a
podcast for engaged couples concernedabout wedding planning and family
expectations, but who want a stressfree, fun, and unforgettable wedding.
It's time for wedding tip Wednesday.
(09:10):
Today's tip will guide you throughplanning with ease and style.
On today's Wedding Tip Wednesday.
Brides test drive your wedding dress.
Why?
Because you want to make sure itcan do all of your favorite things.
Make sure you raise your arms, yoursquat, your hug, because you're
going to be doing a lot of that.
(09:31):
And you can sit comfortablybecause you may be doing a
lot of that when you eating.
Also remember to do the cleavage test.
No more explanation needed on that one.
And of course, for when you'redancing, can you drop it like it's hot?
Remember your dress is notsupposed to fit like a glove.
It's supposed to fit like a dress.
And that's another weddingtip from Sal and Sam.
(09:51):
Wedding Tip Wednesday is availableon the Stress Free Wedding Planning
Facebook group page every Wednesday.
Join the group for free!
Experience the magic of your specialday with Fitzner Productions, a
premier wedding videography companybased in Middletown, Connecticut.
FitznerProductions dot com.
Our mission is to capture your lovestory, candidly and authentically,
creating stunning, high quality videosthat you can cherish for years to come.
(10:14):
Our founder, Carson Fitzner,combines technical expertise with
a passion of storytelling, Ensuringevery moment from the excitement
of getting ready to the heartfeltceremony is beautifully documented.
We offer a range of customizable packages,including drone footage and multi location
shoots tailored to fit your unique vision.
Let us help you relive the romance,laughter, and tears of your wedding day.
(10:37):
Visit fitznerproductions dot com that'sF I T Z N E R productions dot com.
Welcome back to our discussion aboutwedding ceremony seating secrets
every engaged couple must know.
I'm Sam from Atmosphere Productions.
I'm Sal from After HoursEvents in New England.
We've already discussed creativeseating arrangements and
(10:57):
offering varied seating options.
Now something you should consideris sightlines and acoustics.
Remember all your guests shouldhave a clear view of your ceremony.
Consider different options suchas rounded rows and a semi circle.
Also another cool thing is kindof like having a stadium seating
(11:17):
where you elevate the rows.
So they gently slope,for a larger wedding.
Avoid placing chairs where sightlines are obstructed by pillars,
arches, or large floral arrangement.
And something that's extremely important.
A sound system is essentialfor outdoor ceremony.
A lot of people think we could getaway with just the officiant yelling
(11:39):
out, or the couple will be heard.
No, this is not true.
You have older guests who will havea hard time hearing, and you'll
even have some younger guests in theback who may not be able to hear.
So having a sound system thatpicks everything up is essential.
Excellent point there, Sal.
Also important is reserve seating andseating for ushers and bridesmaids.
(12:01):
We touched on some of thisbefore, but there are five key
points I want to bring out.
It's important to reserve seating forimmediate family and special guests.
Remember we talked about the VIP.
The first four or five rowsshould be set aside for immediate
and extended family members.
Make sure you do this.
You don't want late coming close familymembers to have to go and sit in the back.
(12:25):
Use cards, signs, or floralgarlands to mark reserved seats.
So kind of decorate a seat ifyou want grandma to sit in the
front left hand side, so she knowsthat that's her particular chair.
Traditionally, ushers or groomsmenguide guests to their seat.
This ensures that seats are filledappropriately and that guests aren't
(12:49):
scattered or seated too far to the back.
Again, remember, you'll only needchairs for the wedding party, if
they'll be seated during the ceremony.
So if you have to rent chairs forthe ceremony, you need less chairs
if the wedding party is standing nextto you during the entire ceremony.
Also, you need to consideraccessibility and comfort.
(13:12):
Remember to accommodateguests with special needs.
Provide easily accessibleseating for elderly guests.
You don't want to make it hard forthem to make it to their seating.
So if they have mobility limitations,please make it easier for them or
even probably get them into theceremony earlier, so they can be
seated without people watching.
For outdoor ceremonies,offer shade options like
(13:34):
umbrellas or a canopy or tent.
Very important.
You don't want glaringsun into anybody's eyes.
For evening ceremonies or fallor spring ceremonies, consider
providing blankets or shawls.
Look, it gets a little chilly out there.
So you want your gueststo feel comfortable.
So that is one of the bestways to handle all that.
Finally, and most importantly, try tocreate a seating chart and signage.
(13:59):
And this is where awedding planner comes in.
Because if you have a wedding planner,they will create this for you.
Now, when we say a seating chart, it'snot necessarily like the seating chart
that's going to be at the reception.
It really is a guide for whereyour important guests are going
to be seated and where everybodyelse is going to be seated.
(14:21):
So you can have A, assigned seating.
So that's where you decidewhere everybody's going to sit.
Or, family members or friends are ondifferent sides, remember what I said at
the very beginning, you have the centeraisle and then the guests on the left
or right, you can kind of decide that.
And that's where the ushers or thegroomsmen come in handy because they'll
(14:42):
know where people will be seatedbecause they will have a seating chart.
Or, general seating.
Except for the front rows.
So this is more the traditional whereyou, everybody sits anywhere they want to.
There is no groom side orbride side or couple's side.
You just sit wherever you want to.
Also, for outdoor ceremonies,signage is crucial, so it directs
(15:06):
your guests to the location,especially when it's not obvious.
So you may have a facility thathas a ceremony, but it's down
the hill and around the back.
Nobody's going to find itunless you have signage.
So remember for outdoor ceremonies,because typically if it's at a
synagogue or church, it's pretty obviouswhere the ceremony is going to be.
But if you're having an outdoorceremony, signage is crucial.
(15:30):
So there you have it.
We just provided some insider tips.
Wedding ceremony seating secretsevery engaged couple must know.
Remember, the goal is to createa comfortable and inclusive
environment for all your guests.
By carefully planning your seatingarrangements, you can ensure that everyone
has a great view of your special momentsand feels part of the celebration.
(15:52):
Your guests will appreciate thethought and care you put in their
comfort, allowing them to fully enjoythis beautiful moment in your life.
There are many more ideas than these.
Find out more, ask a question,or tell us about your experience
in our Facebook community.
Now, as you spend the next weekplanning your wedding, if you want me,
Sal, or our community of stress freeengaged couples and wedding experts to
(16:16):
answer any wedding related questions,then join us in the stress free
wedding planning, Facebook group.
Once you're in, go ahead and shareyour concerns and worries, and
we'll let you know if you're on theright track or if there are some.
Things you need to work on thelink to join us is in the show
notes of this edition, or go toFacebook and search for the stress
free wedding planning community.
(16:37):
Remember to do somethingnice for someone today.
And if you can't then dosomething nice for yourself.
If you've enjoyed what you've justheard, leave a review and share it with
a friend or someone who would benefitfrom this information until next time.
It's TTFN, ta ta for now.
Thank you for listening to this edition.
A new edition is released every Wednesday.
Subscribe and get it first.
(16:58):
We'll catch you then.
Ciao.
The Stress-free Wedding PlanningPodcast is produced and copyrighted by
Atmosphere Productions in associationwith After Hours Events of New England.
Are you dreaming of a wedding ceremonywhere every guest feels perfectly
comfortable, welcomed, and able tofully experience your magical moment.
Seating might seem like a smalldetail, but it can make or break your
guest's entire wedding experience.
Thank you for joining us.
Hi, I'm Sal from AfterHours Events in New England.
We'll answer these questions andmore in today's edition of the
(00:23):
Stress-free Wedding Planning Podcast.
Welcome to another edition of our podcast.
Hi, I'm Sam from Atmosphere Productions.
Listen now and discover weddingceremony seating secrets every
engaged couple must know.
These are Wedding Insider Secrets fora stress free, fun, and memorable day.
Our podcast helps engaged couplesnavigate wedding planning complexities
(00:48):
while addressing family expectations.
We will guide you through the journeyof creating the perfect wedding
day without unnecessary stress.
By the end of this edition, you'llget concise tips on budgeting,
wedding party management, ceremony,reception planning, and more.
Perfect.
for anyone planning a wedding,all in 30 minutes or less.
(01:09):
Trust us, you don't want to miss this.
Welcome to Stress Free WeddingPlanning, the podcast that will
transform your wedding planningjourney from chaotic to enchanting.
Sal and Sam bring over 80 years ofcombined wedding expertise and exclusive
insider information to the table.
If you're recently engaged, feelingthe pressure of wedding planning,
Struggling with family expectations, butstill dreaming of a joy filled wedding.
(01:33):
You've come to the right place.
Get ready to unveil the best kept weddingsecrets, discover practical tips and
strategies, and learn life changinglessons for a stress free wedding.
Your unforgettable wedding day awaits.
We're here to take you on a transformativejourney of love, laughter, and memories.
So don't miss out on the podcastthat just might change your life.
(01:53):
This is the Stress-free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam.
On today's podcast, weddingceremony seating secrets every
engaged couple must know.
Whether you're planning anintimate backyard celebration
or a grand ballroom affair.
The right seating strategy cantransform your ceremony from simply
beautiful to absolutely unforgettable.
(02:15):
Hi, I'm Sal from After Hours Events, NewEngland, the experts at creating a stress
free unforgettable wedding experience.
We bring energy, professionalism,and a passion to making every
couple's day truly special.
Visit us at After HoursEvents of NE dot com.
Learn more about our experienceand journey to help you with
stress free wedding planning in thetrailer or pilot of this podcast.
(02:38):
Before the end of today's edition.
We'll walk you through expert tipsthat'll help you create a seating
arrangement that ensures your lovedones are not just spectators, but
active participants in your love story.
Hi, I'm Sam from the award winningAtmosphere Productions, wedding
entertainment with expert knowledgeand the difference in quality.
(02:59):
Visit us at Atmospherehyphen Productions dot com.
Today's edition, weddingceremony, seating secrets.
Every engaged couple must know.
From managing sight lines to providingcomfort for every guest, today's insights
will help you and craft a wedding ceremonylayout that reflects your unique style
while keeping everyone relaxed, engaged,and focused on the most important
(03:23):
thing, your commitment to each other.
Get ready to discover how thoughtfulwedding ceremony seating can elevate your
day from wonderful to truly extraordinary.
Firstly, creative seating arrangements,Sam, what have you been seeing out there?
Well, we've seen differentstyles of seating arrangement.
But firstly, let's explain.
(03:44):
Traditionally, there are two rows.
Again, you imagine if you're doing achurch or a synagogue or even an outdoor
ceremony, typically there's an aisledown the middle and left and right sides.
That's the traditional setup, but don'tbe afraid to think outside the box.
(04:05):
Here are some unique ideas.
Have you thought about splitcircular seating and that is a
circle, but cut into four quarters.
And then you'll create multipleaisles that lead to the middle.
How about arranging the chairs informal clusters for more casual feel.
Again, you can have multiple aisles.
(04:26):
You don't just have to have the oneor create a spiral seating arrangement
for an intimate, cozy wedding.
That is, the couple would walk in aspiral in order to get to the center.
You can also have circular seating.
Again, the couple in the center.
Now you might be seeing a trend here,where the center is where the couple end
(04:50):
up and the guests are all the way around.
That's the best viewing.
Everybody gets "the good seat".
Everybody gets to see exactly what'shappening because it's happening
in the middle and not at one end.
I know some of this sounds kindof awkward because you're just not
used to seeing this type of thing,but this is something that really
(05:11):
gives a good sightline for everyone.
So everyone truly does have a good seat.
I just want to remind everyone, you canalso join us on our YouTube channel.
Just search for Stress-free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam.
Subscribe and get it first.
Next up, you have to think aboutproviding ample space for seating.
(05:34):
So when you're planning your ceremonyseating, it really is essential that
you consider the comfort of the guests.
Here are three examples.
Allow at least 24 inchesbetween the chair rows.
That way people have a good seatingposition when they are sitting down.
(05:55):
They're not scrunched uplike you are on an airplane.
Secondly, for outdoor ceremony,space the rows evenly and
a little bit further apart.
So that you're not cramped.
Thirdly, the first row, and thisis important, should be at least
six feet away from where the couplewill be standing to give their vows.
(06:18):
This is very important because the weddingparty is also going to stand up there too.
So you don't want them toall be cramped together.
And here's another pro tip for you.
You know, those front row seats thatare out there in front of the ceremony.
Those are for specific peoplelike parents and grandparents.
So don't worry about seating foryour wedding party because they're
(06:40):
typically standing up there withyou through the whole thing.
So there's no reasonto worry about seating.
And they should also know thatthey're going to be standing so
they don't try to take a seat.
That's right, Sal.
So remember, you only need to order chairsif you're doing an outdoor ceremony, if
the wedding party is going to be seated.
(07:00):
That's right.
So sometimes you may not have thewedding party standing next to you.
Then you need to order chairs sothat they sit in the very front row.
Great, great pro tip.
Next up is another important factor andthat's offering varied seating options.
Yes, Sam.
It doesn't have to be thetraditional white chair.
(07:22):
It could be a variety of different things,but something I do want to point out.
You may have some elderly guests.
So you're going to want a very specificseat for them to be comfortable.
Sometimes a chair with arms onit is very comfortable for them.
And also if you have someone with awheelchair leaving the proper space
for that person to have all the roomthat they need in front of them, behind
(07:43):
them and on the side of them so thatthey're feeling very comfortable.
Bench seats is something that you could doto keep it kind of traditional to almost
like a church feel, but at the venue orat another site that you have chosen.
So, Sam, something that's more uniqueis something called floor seating.
This is where you have rugs or even haybales for a relaxed barn or bohemian vibe.
(08:06):
For VIP guests or family members.
You might want to set up a few rows ofPremium seating, such as padded chairs
Yes, Sal, that's the vibe we'retrying to explain, that you offer
some different type of seating.
You don't just have to have theregular white chairs that you
might see at every single wedding.
(08:28):
So we've just explained offeringvaried seating options, providing
ample seating space and creatingdifferent seating arrangements.
Coming up next, considering sightline andacoustics plus accessibility and comfort.
But first, if you have a questionor concern, go now to Facebook and
join us on the stress free weddingplanning community and ask away.
(08:49):
You can also join uson our YouTube channel.
Just search for Stress-free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam.
Subscribe and get it first.
This is the Stress Free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam, a
podcast for engaged couples concernedabout wedding planning and family
expectations, but who want a stressfree, fun, and unforgettable wedding.
It's time for wedding tip Wednesday.
(09:10):
Today's tip will guide you throughplanning with ease and style.
On today's Wedding Tip Wednesday.
Brides test drive your wedding dress.
Why?
Because you want to make sure itcan do all of your favorite things.
Make sure you raise your arms, yoursquat, your hug, because you're
going to be doing a lot of that.
(09:31):
And you can sit comfortablybecause you may be doing a
lot of that when you eating.
Also remember to do the cleavage test.
No more explanation needed on that one.
And of course, for when you'redancing, can you drop it like it's hot?
Remember your dress is notsupposed to fit like a glove.
It's supposed to fit like a dress.
And that's another weddingtip from Sal and Sam.
(09:51):
Wedding Tip Wednesday is availableon the Stress Free Wedding Planning
Facebook group page every Wednesday.
Join the group for free!
Experience the magic of your specialday with Fitzner Productions, a
premier wedding videography companybased in Middletown, Connecticut.
FitznerProductions dot com.
Our mission is to capture your lovestory, candidly and authentically,
creating stunning, high quality videosthat you can cherish for years to come.
(10:14):
Our founder, Carson Fitzner,combines technical expertise with
a passion of storytelling, Ensuringevery moment from the excitement
of getting ready to the heartfeltceremony is beautifully documented.
We offer a range of customizable packages,including drone footage and multi location
shoots tailored to fit your unique vision.
Let us help you relive the romance,laughter, and tears of your wedding day.
(10:37):
Visit fitznerproductions dot com that'sF I T Z N E R productions dot com.
Welcome back to our discussion aboutwedding ceremony seating secrets
every engaged couple must know.
I'm Sam from Atmosphere Productions.
I'm Sal from After HoursEvents in New England.
We've already discussed creativeseating arrangements and
(10:57):
offering varied seating options.
Now something you should consideris sightlines and acoustics.
Remember all your guests shouldhave a clear view of your ceremony.
Consider different options suchas rounded rows and a semi circle.
Also another cool thing is kindof like having a stadium seating
(11:17):
where you elevate the rows.
So they gently slope,for a larger wedding.
Avoid placing chairs where sightlines are obstructed by pillars,
arches, or large floral arrangement.
And something that's extremely important.
A sound system is essentialfor outdoor ceremony.
A lot of people think we could getaway with just the officiant yelling
(11:39):
out, or the couple will be heard.
No, this is not true.
You have older guests who will havea hard time hearing, and you'll
even have some younger guests in theback who may not be able to hear.
So having a sound system thatpicks everything up is essential.
Excellent point there, Sal.
Also important is reserve seating andseating for ushers and bridesmaids.
(12:01):
We touched on some of thisbefore, but there are five key
points I want to bring out.
It's important to reserve seating forimmediate family and special guests.
Remember we talked about the VIP.
The first four or five rowsshould be set aside for immediate
and extended family members.
Make sure you do this.
You don't want late coming close familymembers to have to go and sit in the back.
(12:25):
Use cards, signs, or floralgarlands to mark reserved seats.
So kind of decorate a seat ifyou want grandma to sit in the
front left hand side, so she knowsthat that's her particular chair.
Traditionally, ushers or groomsmenguide guests to their seat.
This ensures that seats are filledappropriately and that guests aren't
(12:49):
scattered or seated too far to the back.
Again, remember, you'll only needchairs for the wedding party, if
they'll be seated during the ceremony.
So if you have to rent chairs forthe ceremony, you need less chairs
if the wedding party is standing nextto you during the entire ceremony.
Also, you need to consideraccessibility and comfort.
(13:12):
Remember to accommodateguests with special needs.
Provide easily accessibleseating for elderly guests.
You don't want to make it hard forthem to make it to their seating.
So if they have mobility limitations,please make it easier for them or
even probably get them into theceremony earlier, so they can be
seated without people watching.
For outdoor ceremonies,offer shade options like
(13:34):
umbrellas or a canopy or tent.
Very important.
You don't want glaringsun into anybody's eyes.
For evening ceremonies or fallor spring ceremonies, consider
providing blankets or shawls.
Look, it gets a little chilly out there.
So you want your gueststo feel comfortable.
So that is one of the bestways to handle all that.
Finally, and most importantly, try tocreate a seating chart and signage.
(13:59):
And this is where awedding planner comes in.
Because if you have a wedding planner,they will create this for you.
Now, when we say a seating chart, it'snot necessarily like the seating chart
that's going to be at the reception.
It really is a guide for whereyour important guests are going
to be seated and where everybodyelse is going to be seated.
(14:21):
So you can have A, assigned seating.
So that's where you decidewhere everybody's going to sit.
Or, family members or friends are ondifferent sides, remember what I said at
the very beginning, you have the centeraisle and then the guests on the left
or right, you can kind of decide that.
And that's where the ushers or thegroomsmen come in handy because they'll
(14:42):
know where people will be seatedbecause they will have a seating chart.
Or, general seating.
Except for the front rows.
So this is more the traditional whereyou, everybody sits anywhere they want to.
There is no groom side orbride side or couple's side.
You just sit wherever you want to.
Also, for outdoor ceremonies,signage is crucial, so it directs
(15:06):
your guests to the location,especially when it's not obvious.
So you may have a facility thathas a ceremony, but it's down
the hill and around the back.
Nobody's going to find itunless you have signage.
So remember for outdoor ceremonies,because typically if it's at a
synagogue or church, it's pretty obviouswhere the ceremony is going to be.
But if you're having an outdoorceremony, signage is crucial.
(15:30):
So there you have it.
We just provided some insider tips.
Wedding ceremony seating secretsevery engaged couple must know.
Remember, the goal is to createa comfortable and inclusive
environment for all your guests.
By carefully planning your seatingarrangements, you can ensure that everyone
has a great view of your special momentsand feels part of the celebration.
(15:52):
Your guests will appreciate thethought and care you put in their
comfort, allowing them to fully enjoythis beautiful moment in your life.
There are many more ideas than these.
Find out more, ask a question,or tell us about your experience
in our Facebook community.
Now, as you spend the next weekplanning your wedding, if you want me,
Sal, or our community of stress freeengaged couples and wedding experts to
(16:16):
answer any wedding related questions,then join us in the stress free
wedding planning, Facebook group.
Once you're in, go ahead and shareyour concerns and worries, and
we'll let you know if you're on theright track or if there are some.
Things you need to work on thelink to join us is in the show
notes of this edition, or go toFacebook and search for the stress
free wedding planning community.
(16:37):
Remember to do somethingnice for someone today.
And if you can't then dosomething nice for yourself.
If you've enjoyed what you've justheard, leave a review and share it with
a friend or someone who would benefitfrom this information until next time.
It's TTFN, ta ta for now.
Thank you for listening to this edition.
A new edition is released every Wednesday.
Subscribe and get it first.
(16:58):
We'll catch you then.
Ciao.
The Stress-free Wedding PlanningPodcast is produced and copyrighted by
Atmosphere Productions in associationwith After Hours Events of New England.
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