Every now and then, someone will ask me about the difference between an escort card and a place card (and when should they use them).  If you are not in the wedding industry, it can be confusing. I must confess that I never heard of the word, “escort card” before I began working in the wedding industry. So, check out the post below for a breakdown of the differences between escort cards, place cards, and seating charts.

What is the Purpose of Escort Cards?

The purpose of escort cards is to assign wedding guests to their table for the reception. You will usually find the escort cards at the cocktail reception or in a location near the entrance of the wedding reception. Quite often, escort cards are small, folded cards with a wedding guest’s name and table assignment on them. If the couple gave guests the opportunity to select their entree in advance, the menu selection would also be on escort card.

When to Use Place Cards

Couples typically use place cards in conjunction with escort cards at formal or black tie weddings. The place cards are used to dictate the actual seating of the wedding guests at each table. So, couples set each of the guests’ place cards at their place settings prior to the start of the dinner. In many instances, hosts typically assign place cards to guest seating at small events, such as dinner parties. If you find you are a little confused about the difference between escort cards and place cards, remember that ESCORT cards “escort” you to your table while PLACE cards puts you in your PLACE at the table.

What is a Seating Chart?

A seating chart at a wedding or event is a sign that lists the guests’ names and table assignments for the reception. Some couples break down seating charts by table numbers, but I highly encourage you to organize your seating chart in alphabetical order. Guests will typically find the seating chart on an easel located near the entrance of the wedding reception. Couples typically use a seating chart at their wedding when the guest count is too large for escort cards and/or when the wedding guests didn’t have an opportunity to select their entree in advance. If you are unsure about when to use an escort card and when to use a seating chart, remember that the only goal of a seating chart is to inform your guests where they are SEATED at a reception.

For more details regarding your wedding day stationery, check out of Wedding Stationery Guidebook!

Love and Soul Always, Kawania

Place Card Photo by Trene Forbes Photography

Escort Cards Photo by Stephen Bobb Photography

Seating Chart by Internal Expedition Images by Dexter Cohen