The basic layout
Traditionally, in many Christian ceremonies, the bride’s family sits on the left (facing the altar) and the groom’s on the right; in Jewish ceremonies the sides are commonly reversed. Many couples now skip sides entirely (“Choose a seat, not a side”) — especially when one family is much larger.
Reserved rows
- Row 1: parents (and step-parents), plus anyone giving a reading who needs quick access.
- Row 2: grandparents and siblings not in the wedding party.
- Rows 3–4: close aunts, uncles and godparents.
Mark reserved rows with a ribbon or a small sign, and tell your ushers who belongs there.
Divorced and blended families
If parents are divorced, a common solution is both in the front row with a buffer (a sibling or grandparent) between them, or one in the first row and the other in the second with their partner. See our guides on divorced parents and blended families.
Accessibility
Remove a chair at the end of a row near the front for a wheelchair user, and seat their companion beside them. Guests with limited mobility or hearing do best at the aisle end of the first rows. Older guests appreciate shade at outdoor ceremonies.
Ushers and latecomers
Ushers greet guests, hand out orders of service and guide family to reserved rows. Late arrivals should wait for the procession to finish and slip in at the back or sides — never down the aisle.
Plan it, then print itPaste your guest list, seat everyone on a to-scale floor plan, and print the sign and cards — free, no account.
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