Escort Cards vs. Place Cards

{Place Card Image by Shannon Kelley Photography}

Brides are often confusing escort cards and place cards - sometimes they aren't really even sure what purpose they serve or if they even need them.  I thought I'd take some time today to explain the difference and the reason behind both!

Escort Cards
Escort cards are the first thing your guests see when they enter your reception venue.  These little bad boys let people know what table they'll be sitting at.  Escort cards are incredibly useful because they let your guests know you took the time to think about who they would have an enjoyable evening sitting with.  Having table numbers assigned also cuts down on unused place settings - you'll have each table filled to its capacity and will know exactly how many you need.  Many times when escort cards aren't used there are empty seats at tables because an odd number sat at the table - rarely will one guest come and fill that vacant seat.  Also, if you have a large family attending your wedding they might have to sit separately if they aren't assigned a table ahead of time.

Escort cards should be arranged alphabetically by last name.  It's great to have a few people act as greeters to help people find their cards and speed up the process.  The cards can be written with a single guest's name or with couples/families - either way is acceptable, your decision may be made due to space availability or cost savings.  The cards should have the table number or name displayed on them.  An escort card addressed for an unmarried couple should list the guest who is closest with the couple first.

Creating a seating arrangement for your wedding can be incredibly stressful, but I swear it eases the anxiety on the actual day making all the work worth it!  It's also a fun way to show off your creative side by designing a gorgeous display for your escort cards :o)


Place Cards
Place cards assign your guests a specific place at their reception table.  These cards are 100% necessary for the head table where the bridal party will be seated - it creates much needed organization.  For guest tables, place cards are usually needed when serving a sit-down meal - they will denote what the guest is having so the server knows where to place each plate.  Place cards may also be helpful in situations where divorced parents will be seated at the same table, but should not be placed beside one another.

I hope that was helpful and you feel you learned a little something today ;o)  As always, we're here if you have any questions or need advice!