Etiquette for place cards

It's interesting:
"At the wedding rehearsal yesterday evening, I had the pleasure of talking with Linda’s close friends. They talked about how she’s the friend they turn to when they need to vent over a foolish boyfriend or for advice on land the job of their dreams. They also said she has some pretty sweet moves on the dance floor. So let’s see them!"

Place cards are used to indicate where each guest should sit during the meal served at a party. Place cards are often used at wedding receptions, although they are appropriate for and sometimes used at formal dinner parties and other occasions.

1. Formality

   • A party with place cards is most likely a formal event. Be consistent with the level of formality you choose. For example, Mr. Robert Jones is a formal place card- when using Mr. Robert Jones, do not have Steve Miller on another place card. Mr. Stephen Miller is consistent with Mr. Robert Jones.

   Gender

   • A married woman's formal name is her husband's name. If Bob Jones married Alicia, then Mr. Robert Jones' wife is Mrs. Robert Jones. Beth, however, is single. Her place card says Miss Beth Smith or Ms. Beth Smith. If Alicia were widowed, she would still be Mrs. Robert Jones, but if Alicia were divorced, then her place card would read Ms. Alicia Jones.

   Seating Positions

   • While married couples are often seated at the same table, they do not sit next to each other. The logic behind this is that they see each other often and at a social gathering are able to visit with others. Also, alternating male/female is the conventional practice.

   Personal

   • Spell names correctly- a misspelled name can feel like an insult and hurt guests' feelings. Also, do use correct titles. A guest who has earned a PhD is "Dr.," not Mr. or Ms. If you are unsure of the correct spelling or title, it is both appropriate and considerate to call the guest and ask.

   Size

   • Place cards are usually the size of a business card or a little bit bigger. They should not, however, be bigger than 3-by-5 inches. A place card simply indicates who sits in which seat and is not a substitute for table decoration.

   Placement

   • Place cards are usually above the dinner plate at the 12 o'clock position. They can be folded to stand up or inserted in small holders designed specifically for this purpose. If purchasing place card holders, they should be the same or very similar for each guest.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Robert Jones, place card, Alicia were, Beth Smith, cards usually, consistent with, each guest