I’m all about planning a delicious dinner for wedding guests – don’t we all remember the food?!  However, I’m also a big fan of moving things along to get to the party. Your guests will truly appreciate a well-executed service plan. It’s the kind of thing you only notice if it doesn’t go smoothly…specifically, if you are one of the guests waiting and waiting and waiting for your food. If you choose a plated meal, here are some simple ways to keep things on track with service:

Stick to three courses. If you really want to add a course, consider an intermezzo which is quick and pretty and a unique touch. Or, offer a displayed cheese course after you cut the cake – so European!

Preset your first course. This means that before your guests are cued to dinner, the service staff has already set out the first course for each guest. It also means you need to choose a cold first course and you’ll need to design the place settings accordingly. (No napkins or menu cards on the plate. Instead, consider propping a menu card against a glass and rolling the napkin at the top of the setting – tied with raffia, ribbon, sea grass, etc.)

Choose a set menu. Serving everyone the same entrée will literally take 30 minutes – minimum – off your dinner service time. I like a dual entrée such as filet and salmon but choose what you like and then offer a vegetarian option by request (either on the response card or by request the night of the reception).

Not only will all your guests rave about the food and service, but you’ll stay on track with your timeline. This means more time for dancing, visiting and partying with your friends and family!

Nikki + Damian’s Wedding at The O’Henry Hotel. Event by Erin McLean Events. Photos by Sweet Life Studios.

Once all of your guests RSVP and you are working on a seating chart you will have to decide if you would like to do Place Cards or Escort Cards. Wondering what the difference is?

Escort Cards are used to show which table your guests are sitting at. They do not need to be cards. You can be creative and use an old windowpane, chalkboard – whatever you like. Typically you will have your table names, or numbers, and each person’s name who is sitting at that table listed below.

Place Cards are most specific than place cards. These will show your guest where, at their assigned table, they will be sitting specifically. These are usually sitting at the guests place setting on the table which will let them know what plate and chair to sit at. Keep in mind, if you would like to do place cards that you are aware of keeping spouses and +1s next to each other at the table.

It is not necessary to do both, but we recommend that you choose one of these two options to avoid any confusion, delays or anxiety with your guests wondering where they should be seated.