Wedding table names and numbers

Numbering so people can find their table

Numbers are the easiest for guests and staff. Number in a logical sweep — from the front of the room to the back, left to right — so Table 7 is next to Table 6 and 8. Avoid implying a ranking: Table 1 doesn’t have to be your parents. The planner’s “Renumber tables” does a front-to-back sweep for you.

For a more formal look, use roman numerals (I, II, III) or words (One, Two, Three) — the cards and signs switch with one setting.

Name ideas

• Places you love: cities you’ve travelled to, where you met, where you got engaged.
• Your story: the café of your first date, the street of your first flat.
• Books, films, songs you both love.
• Seasonal: flowers, herbs, trees that match the décor.
• Personal for each table: name each table after something its guests share.

Use names and numbers together

If you love names, add a small number too (“Lisbon · 4”) on the table card and the sign. Servers think in numbers; guests enjoy the names. Order an alphabetical sign by guest name either way — nobody should need to scan 20 table names to find themselves.

Avoid

• Names that rank people (“Gold”, “Silver”) or label them (“Singles”).
• In-jokes only one table will understand.
• Very long names that won’t fit a 5 × 7 card at a readable size.
• Table 13, if you have superstitious relatives — some couples simply skip it.