What to Consider When Choosing a Seating Chart or Escort Cards
If you’re at the stage of wedding planning where you need to decide how to display your seating arrangements, you may be wondering: seating chart or escort cards? While there’s no one right answer, assigning guests to a specific table (rather than a free-for-all) is always highly recommended for a smooth flow. Let’s explore the pros and considerations of each option:
Seating Chart
A seating chart is a single display that lists all guest names and their assigned tables.
Why couples love it:
Guests can quickly find their names when organized alphabetically.
Easy to create one large, eye-catching design piece.
Can match your wedding style—think calligraphed mirrors, elegant framed prints, rustic wooden boards, or modern acrylic signage.
Things to keep in mind:
If guests pre-selected meal choices, you’ll still need place cards at each seat so catering staff know who ordered what.
Outdoor weddings require careful setup—charts must be anchored or weighted to prevent wind mishaps.
Escort Cards
Escort cards are individual cards with each guest’s name and table assignment, often arranged on a display table.
Why couples love it:
They double as a keepsake or can be combined with favors.
Can include entrée symbols (if applicable), eliminating the need for separate place cards.
Endless creative display ideas—from cards clipped to greenery, tied to champagne glasses, or tucked into mini gifts.
Things to keep in mind:
Cards must be secured outdoors so they don’t blow away.
More materials are needed (printing one per guest), though they can be incorporated into your wedding aesthetic beautifully.
Which Should You Choose?
Ultimately, it depends on your wedding style and logistics:
Formal weddings often lean toward a grand seating chart paired with elegant place cards.
Casual or whimsical weddings may prefer escort cards that double as favors.
Outdoor weddings require extra thought about weatherproofing either option.
Final Thoughts
Whichever route you choose, your seating display can become a beautiful design element that ties into your overall wedding décor. We know the options can feel overwhelming, which is why we love helping couples create custom stationery and displays that not only look stunning but also make the flow of the day seamless.
To see more of our Agape Planning custom stationery or to contact us for a complimentary consultation, visit our Stationery page. You can also check out our Pinterest boards for more seating display inspiration!