As
you already know, escort cards tell your guests what table you’ve seated them
at, while place cards tell them what seat at the table is theirs. You also
already know that place cards are not mandatory, but that escort cards
regularly make an appearance at weddings.
However,
when it comes to the table numbers identified on escort cards, the rules are
not so clear. Many couples choose to forgo the traditional numerical system of
labeling the tables at their reception and to instead use unique monikers. We’ve
seen names of cities that couples have traveled to or lived in, favorite types
of wines, local landmarks, and historical figures be used in lieu of
traditional numbers or Roman numerals.
We
applaud these couples on their creativity. But…
Warn
couples considering doing the same thing to:
Make
sure that the names, places, or other words that are used instead of numbers
are clear to read and understand. For an American couple, being seated at table
“Benjamin Franklin” is pretty straightforward in that it’s easy for them to
read the name, understand who it belongs to, and identify it on a table stand.
However, seating the same couple at “Reykjavik” might present some problems. At
the very least, those guests might be embarrassed at not knowing how to properly
pronounce “Reykjavik” or that its the capitol of Iceland. And, as always, a
clear, easily readable font is helpful.
Present
the unique table identifiers in a logical way, whether alphabetical, by
distance from each other on a map, or time when they occurred in the couple’s
life. This makes it easier for guests to find their tables.
With
those considerations in mind, we offer several options for unique table names:
The
names of presidents. Although perhaps a slightly more DC-centric idea, using the
names of former or the current president is a fun way to tie U.S. history into
a wedding.
Favorite
wines. If you and your fiancé love merlot, pinot noir, and chardonnay, name
away!
Countries
or cities in which you’ve lived. If you and your fiancé have lived in many
different places, naming your reception tables after those locations is a sweet
way to remind your guests (and each other) of how far you traveled to find one
another.
Favorite
vacation spots. Whether exotic (Fiji!) or more tame (Boston), table names
reflecting vacations you’ve taken together display your adventurous spirit to
your guests.
Favorite
songs. Are you really into music? Share your love of music and each other by
naming your tables after some of your favorite songs. It’s sweet if the titles
contain the word “love”, but it’s not necessary. We just recommend you stay
away from anything vulgar or offensive.
Love
in different languages or famous or favorite quotes about love and
relationships. What better way to reinforce to your guests what the day is all
about?
Landmarks.
This idea allows you to make each table number sign in the shape of the
landmark containing the name of the landmark. You can stick to the landmarks
available in the city in which you’re throwing your wedding, or select ones
you’ve seen that are your favorites.
However,
we suggest you avoid:
Random
animal names. No guest wants to be sitting at table hippo, unless your wedding
is actually in a zoo.
Offensive
names. Yes, we always remind you of that.
Symbols
or pictures with no words. These table identifiers just confuse guests.
