Two items, two different jobs
A seating plan and table name cards are often mentioned together, but they do different things. A seating plan board tells guests which table they're on. Name cards, or place cards, tell each guest which seat is theirs once they get there. Whether you need one, the other or both depends on the size and formality of the event.
The seating plan board
A seating plan is a single large sign, usually displayed near the entrance to the reception, listing guests by table so they can find where to sit. It saves staff or the couple from directing every guest individually, which matters when you have a lot of people arriving at once. It's most useful for larger events where guests don't all know each other.
Table name cards
Name cards sit on the table at each place setting, so they confirm exactly where someone is sitting. They make a table feel considered and are useful where you want specific people to sit together, or apart. For a smaller gathering they can do the whole job on their own, since guests can simply find their name.
Which do you need?
For a small event, name cards alone may be enough. For a larger one, you'll usually want the plan to get people to the right table and cards to settle them once they're there. A common middle route is to use a seating plan with table names or numbers and let guests choose their seat on the table.
Making them readable
A seating plan is read by a crowd from a short distance, so names need to be large and clearly laid out, ideally in alphabetical order or grouped by table. Name cards can be smaller, but should still be legible at arm's length with a clear, simple font. Check spellings carefully before printing.
Print them last
Because both depend on final seating, they're usually the last stationery to be printed. Wait until your numbers are settled, and keep time before the event for any last-minute changes.
Getting yours printed
Star Printers prints seating plan boards and name cards at our Tooting shop. See our seating plan sign board and table name card pages, browse all printing services, or contact us with your guest numbers.