Wedding ceremony seating: sides, reserved rows and the aisle

Ceremony seating is simpler than the reception: most guests choose their own seats. But a few decisions are worth making ahead of time, especially about the front rows and the aisle.

Which side is which?

In many Western traditions, the bride's family and friends sit on the left (as you face the front) and the groom's on the right. In Jewish ceremonies it's often the reverse. Many couples now skip sides altogether and let guests sit anywhere, which also avoids one side looking emptier than the other.

If you do use sides, a small sign at the entrance helps. If one side is much bigger, ask ushers to fill seats evenly.

Reserve the front rows

The first rows on each side usually go to:

1. Parents, in the first row, on the aisle.
2. Grandparents, in the first or second row.
3. Siblings and their partners, and close family.
4. Wedding party partners, so they can watch, and sit with their partner afterwards.

A good rule is two to three reserved rows per side, marked with a ribbon or a "Reserved" sign. Our ceremony template leaves the front of each block ready for these names.

Divorced parents at the ceremony

If parents are separated, seat one in the first row and the other in the second, with their partners. Or seat both in the first row with a sibling between them. Ask them what they're comfortable with.

Setting out the chairs

• The aisle should be wide enough for two people side by side, plus a dress: about 1.2 to 1.8 m (4 to 6 ft).
• Rows need about 90 cm (3 ft) from the back of one chair to the back of the next so guests can get in and out.
• Leave side aisles if you have more than about 10 chairs in a row, so nobody has to climb over others.
• Keep the front row a few metres back from where you'll stand, so the photographer has room to work.

Guests who need a little more

• Older guests appreciate aisle seats near the front.
• Guests using wheelchairs need a space at the end of a row with a clear, flat route, not tucked behind a pillar.
• Families with babies are happiest near the back or an exit.

Moving from ceremony to reception

If the ceremony and reception are in the same room, you'll need a plan for turning the room around. Draw both layouts to scale so your venue can set out the chairs, then switch to tables. Our guide to the reception seating chart covers the second half.