It is traditional for there to be a top table at the wedding meal, but nowadays this is not compulsory. The bride and groom need not feel obliged to sit with their families, particularly when there are step-parents or difficult family politics involved.

Consideration must be given to the key individuals on the day, such as family members and close friends. They should be seated appropriately with a good view of the bride and groom and the speech-makers.

Traditional Top Table

The traditional seating plan for the top table (facing the table from left to right) is as follows:

chief bridesmaid, father of the groom, mother of the bride,
groom, bride, father of the bride, mother of the groom, best man

This sort of seating arrangement is, however, very formal, and not very sociable for those seated in a long line. Round tables might be more successful.

See Receiving Lines

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