Do you find that you aren’t really sure whether to use escort cards or place cards for your wedding? We find that the terms are quite often used interchangeably. When asked which card will be used, the response will most likely be “Is there a difference?” Well…Yes! There’s a very simple but significant difference between an escort card and a place card, and trust us when we say the difference is important. We have compiled an easy- to-understand chart so you can know the difference between escort cards vs. place cards.
What are Escort Cards?
Escort cards are usually arranged in a creative manner at the entrance of the reception area. For example, at welcome table or on a seating chart. They direct guests to a particular table but not a specific seat. Guests will simply look for their name and the table number to be directed to their seating. The easiest way to organize the cards is to do it in alphabetical order so guests can find their name quickly and avoid bungling in the display area.
What are Place Cards?
Place cards are more specific and are used for more formal settings. Place cards are inscribed with the individual guest’s name and are placed at particular seats so the guest knows exactly where they should sit. Some couples use both cards where guests would locate an escort card with their table number at the entrance of the reception and then find a place card with their name at a particular seat at the table.
Do I Need One of Them?
Place cards become very important if you’re having a plated dinner with different menu options. This is because they are usually marked in subtle unique ways (e.g. with a coloured dot) to indicate specific meal choices. Both escort cards and place cards can play a huge role in managing the tension between families or friends (yes, this does happen at weddings) by seating them comfortably. Alternately, they can also be used creatively to pair singles or group persons together with similar interests. Of course, you don’t have unlimited seating at your wedding, so either of these cards will prevent your guests from sitting unevenly or spreading out. Moreover, couples are also finding new ways to incorporate their wedding favours and colour schemes with their place cards and escort cards.
Engaging a wedding planner is a sure way to help you sort through some of these little details that can become a stress point when planning your wedding. Feel free to ask us how.
Hope this blog was helpful. If so, please like or share your comments, and as always….happy planning!
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