Head table vs sweetheart table: which should you choose?
Both put the couple at the centre of the room. They differ in who joins you and how much it affects the rest of the seating plan.
What each one is
- A head table is a long table, usually facing the guests, with the couple and the wedding party.
- A sweetheart table is a small table for just the two of you, often with a backdrop of flowers or lights.
Pros and cons of a head table
- Pro: your wedding party sits with you, and the layout feels traditional.
- Con: you sit side by side facing the room and it is harder to talk to your party; partners of the wedding party may be seated elsewhere.
Pros and cons of a sweetheart table
- Pro: a quiet moment together, and it takes pressure off choosing who joins you.
- Con: it can feel isolated for some couples, and your wedding party sits at a separate table.
A third option: sit with your guests
Some couples sit at a regular round table with close family or friends. It's relaxed and gets you into the conversation, but it does take up a place in your seating plan.
How it changes your plan
A sweetheart table removes two seats from your count. A head table with the wedding party removes more, and it affects how many round tables you need.
Frequently asked questions
Who sits at the head table?
Traditionally the couple and the wedding party. Some couples include their partners, or parents, depending on the size of the party.
Can we have both?
Yes. Some couples have a sweetheart table and a separate wedding-party table next to it.