How to Seat Guests for a Dinner Party

It may be difficult to believe, but not long ago, those hosting a dinner party, seated couples separately to encourage conversation. For those of us who feel tethered—in a good way—to our significant other, this made for an uncomfortable evening.

Thankfully, this is no longer ‘the rule’. Now the well-mannered host can seat couples next to each other and not fear a dull evening or a slap on the wrist from the etiquette police.

Who Are Your Guests?

The great host always knows something about his/her guests and attempts to learn more, like food/beverage preferences and restrictions, and if the guest is talkative or shy. This makes it much easier to seat them across from a couple that may complement them.

In fact, seating complementary guests across from one another helps liven a gathering. Seeing others’ faces helps stimulate conversation greatly.

Anyone Want to Know About Crowder Vs. Ling?

It is best to also know about guests’ particular fields. This helps for those times when we have a couple of guests in the same field. We would then seat them on different ends of the table so the entire evening wouldn’t dissolve into a dull, droning of ‘shop talk’. I know if I had to spend an entire evening listening to how a diode works, I would fall asleep in minutes.

Of course, there’s always more wine.

What About Our Singles?

There’s no firm rule about seating single guests anymore but they could be seated next to each other. It all depends on the guests.

Another reason to learn more about those the good host chooses to invite to that special dinner.

Choice is Good!

If all are compatible, allow guests to choose their seats. This could mix it up a bit. Most of my guests are long-term friends and family. So, this is my most frequently used seating method.

Bottom Line

Don’t take it too seriously and enjoy! A glass of wine is usually a great idea to help in the process.

More from The Polite One

Etiquette 101: How-to Host an Adult Birthday Party That Will Please Your Guests

Inviting, Planning, and Sending Guests Out the Door

Holiday Dinner Party Etiquette: Minding Your Manners During the Holidays

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