At a wedding, the head table is often the focal point of the reception, as it features the newlywed couple and their closest family or friends. While traditions vary based on culture, religion, and personal preferences, the arrangement of the head table is one of the key aspects of planning a reception. If you’re wondering who should sit at this important table, here’s a guide to help you decide.
Traditional Head Table Arrangements
In many traditional weddings, the head table is set up for the bride, groom, and their wedding party. This typically includes:
- The bride and groom seated in the middle, side by side.
- The best man seated next to the bride, and the maid or matron of honor next to the groom.
- The remaining bridesmaids and groomsmen on alternating sides.
This setup highlights the couple and their closest friends, while symbolizing the support they’ve received from their wedding party. It’s a beautiful way to honor those who have played a special role in the wedding.
Family-Style Head Tables
Another popular arrangement is to have the head table exclusively for immediate family members. In this style, the couple sits with their parents, siblings, and possibly grandparents. This option works especially well if you have a smaller wedding party or prefer a more intimate setup with family.
Family-style head tables are often seen in more formal or culturally traditional weddings. It offers the couple the chance to share a special moment with those closest to them and creates a family-centric atmosphere.
The Sweetheart Table
For couples who prefer a more intimate setting during the reception, the sweetheart table is a great option. This is a smaller table that only seats the bride and groom, placed prominently in the room.
A sweetheart table allows the couple to have a bit of privacy and alone time during the reception, while still being visible to guests. It’s a good option if the couple wants to enjoy each other’s company while still having flexibility to move around the room and interact with their guests.
A Mixed Arrangement: Combining Wedding Party and Family
If you can’t decide between having your wedding party or family members at the head table, why not combine the two? Some couples opt to seat their parents and siblings at the head table alongside the best man, maid of honor, and possibly a few other close members of the wedding party.
This mixed arrangement reflects the unique dynamic of many modern families and friend groups. It’s a thoughtful way to show your appreciation to both your family and your closest friends.
Factors to Consider
When deciding who should sit at your head table, there are several factors to keep in mind:
- Size of your wedding party: A large wedding party may make it difficult to seat everyone at the head table, so you may want to consider either a sweetheart table or splitting up the group across multiple tables.
- Family dynamics: If there are any family sensitivities or divorced parents, you may need to adjust your seating arrangements to ensure everyone feels comfortable and included.
- Personal preference: Ultimately, this is your day, and your preferences should guide the decision. Whether you want to sit surrounded by friends or family, or just with your spouse, it’s about what makes you most comfortable.
The head table is more than just a seating arrangement—it’s a representation of your support system, whether that’s your wedding party, family, or both. There’s no “right” or “wrong” way to arrange it. Choose the option that feels most meaningful to you as a couple, and you’ll create a special moment to remember.