Seating Chart Ideas for Weddings (from a New Jersey Wedding Calligrapher)

It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of seating charts. As a New Jersey wedding calligrapher, I’m always so excited to chat with couples about their seating chart ideas and how I can help make them a reality. We have talked a lot about seating charts on the blog before, but today, I wanted to dive into all of the unique seating chart ideas and mediums we can use to bring your vision to life. If you are debating between a large mirror, stunning acrylic, or something unique like a couple of surfboards – this is definitely the post for you.

First, and definitely one of my favorites, we have modern mirror seating charts. I love mirror seating charts for a few reasons – not only are they gorgeous but they make for a more sustainable wedding too. After your wedding day, there are PLENTY of ways you can repurpose the mirror from your wedding decor (you can find more ways to repurpose wedding decor here!). On top of that, you can often find used mirrors on Facebook marketplace or at local thrift stores which is a great way to save a little money and get a unique vintage look you love.

Acrylic Seating Charts

Although acrylic seating charts are not as sustainable or reusable as a mirror seating chart option, there is no doubt that they are absolutely stunning and blend seamlessly with many different wedding styles. Acrylic seating charts work well with both boho and classic wedding styles (and in case you need permission – you can mix and match).

Wooden Seating Charts

Wooden seating charts lend well to a boho or rustic wedding vibe but honestly, they are so versatile they can work anywhere! You can choose a clean piece of wood (like the one pictured below!) or something more rustic like an old door or window frame. If you choose the latter, we can write your guest names on the wood or the glass.

Unique Seating Charts – like these Surfboards!

If the traditional mediums of mirrors, acrylic and wood don’t have your heart, rest assured that the sky is truly the limit here. I absolutely love when couple come to me with unique seating chart ideas for their wedding – especially if it helps tell a part of their love story or has a special meaning to them as a couple. Most recently, Tara and Alex chose to use fun and colorful surfboards as their seating charts, and they were a hit! You can read all about their stunning tropical wedding in New Jersey here.

Using a map or photo as your seating chart

Do you and your new spouse-to-be have an adventurous side? Why not channel that part of your personality into your seating chart? Not only am I seeing couples choose to name their table numbers after different locations, but we can also create your seating chart right on top of a map of the world (or your favorite adventure photo!).

Seating Chart Cards

As a wedding calligrapher, I probably don’t have to stress how much I love delicate hand written touches. If you are looking for something kind of different, you can consider having seating chart cards (ideally on stunning, torn-edged paper) guiding your guests to their spot at your reception. If you are looking for a seating chart idea that’s a little bit easier to transport with you, this is definitely it. It’s harder than you think to ship a large mirror!

Have a Place Card Display

If you love the look of a grand seating chart but the intimacy of escort cards, a place card display can have it all. One of my favorite examples lately is this stunning ombre place card seating chart below. Trust me when I say – your guests will love finding their name. There is just something so intimate and special about individual place cards!

Seating Chart Ideas for YOUR wedding Day

If your Pinterest board is overflowing with ideas right now, don’t worry! One of the first steps I take when I work with my couples is setting up a consultation call where we go over all of your options. You don’t have to have everything figured out before this call, so don’t stress! If you are thinking about hiring a calligrapher for your wedding day (for your wedding signage, stationery and of course – seating charts!), you can learn more about working with me and my process here at Write Pretty for Me here. Or, if you are ready to get started, reach out through the button below!