Planning your wedding or a formal event? We know—it’s a big deal! A formal event can take 6 to 12 months to plan. From the venue to the playlist to the perfect menu, every little detail matters. But one detail that often gets overlooked (and really shouldn’t!) is how your guests find their seats.
Choosing between escort cards, place cards, or a seating chart might seem small, but it can have a big impact on your event’s flow, your guest experience, and even your décor.
Let’s break it down together so you can choose what fits your vision best. 💍✨
💡 What Are Escort Cards and Place Cards?
Both escort cards and place cards help guests find their way—but they do it differently, and each serves a unique purpose.
▶️ Escort Cards: Guide Guests to a Table
- Displayed near the venue entrance
- Lists each guest’s name and table number
- Guests choose any seat at their assigned table
Escort cards are a bit more relaxed and let your guests choose where they sit once they get to their table. Think of it as structured freedom—organized, but not overly rigid.
▶️ Place Cards: Assign Each Guest a Specific Seat
- Set at each place setting
- Lists the guest’s name only
- Guests sit in a specific seat, not just at a specific table
Place cards are perfect when you want a more curated experience—especially if you’re planning a plated dinner or want to ensure that Aunt Linda sits far away from your college friends. 😉
✅ Escort Cards vs. Place Cards: Pros and Cons
🚪 Escort Cards
Best for: Semi-formal events, buffets, or when flexibility is preferred
Why You’ll Love Them:
- Easy to adjust for last-minute guest changes
- Reduces traffic at the entrance
- Can be styled creatively (think mini envelopes, wax seals, or champagne glasses)
A Few Things to Keep in Mind:
- You won’t control who sits next to whom
- Guests may hesitate or shift seats once they reach the table
🍽️ Place Cards
Best for: Formal events, plated meals, or creating intentionally curated seating
Why You’ll Love Them:
- Gives you full control over guest placement
- Streamlines dinner service, especially for dietary needs
- Adds a personal, polished touch to each setting
Heads Up:
- Requires more planning and setup
- Less flexible if guest lists change last minute
🆚 At-a-Glance Comparison
| Feature | Escort Cards | Place Cards |
| Placement | Entrance Display | On Each Table Setting |
| Seating Control | Table Only | Individual Seat |
| Flexibility | High | Low |
| Ideal For | Buffets, Casual Weddings | Plated Dinners, VIP Events |
| Setup Time | Minimal | Moderate to High |
🎯 When Should You Use Escort Cards or Place Cards?
👔 Formal Weddings and Black-Tie Receptions
Use place cards when you want structured seating, a seamless dining experience, and that elegant, “wow” factor.
🎉 Casual Celebrations and Buffets
Go for escort cards if you want to assign tables but let guests choose their seats. Relaxed but still organized.
🧮 Large Guest Counts
Escort cards help avoid traffic backups at the entrance—ideal for big weddings or galas.
👥 Intimate Gatherings
Place cards help you create thoughtful, meaningful seating that encourages great conversations.
👩🍳 Pro Tip: Match Seating Style to Your Catering Plan
Plated dinner? Go with place cards so your catering team can deliver the right meals with zero confusion.
Buffet or family-style? Escort cards are usually just right—they keep things organized without overcomplicating the flow.
At Deco Catering, we don’t just serve food—we help design the whole experience. From seating strategy to menu design, our goal is to make your event effortlessly elegant.
💬 Final Thoughts: Why These Tiny Cards Matter
Seating cards might be small, but they work hard behind the scenes. They eliminate confusion, smooth out meal service, and give your guests that extra touch of “Wow, they really thought of everything.”
Plus, when designed with intention, they can double as part of your décor—hello, Pinterest-worthy details! 🌿
📞 Let’s Make Seating Simple (And Stylish)
At Deco Catering, we love helping couples and hosts like you create unforgettable events from start to finish. Whether you’re planning an elegant black-tie affair or a cozy garden wedding, we’ll help you choose the perfect seating solution to match your style, menu, and vibe.
✨ Let’s bring your vision to life—contact us today and let’s start planning!
Feature Photo by: Leah Fontaine Photography
Photo 2: Morgan Maxine Photography
Photo 3: Eileen K Photography
Photo 4: Abigail Ann Photography