We usually keep things pretty casual around here even during the holidays. Our gatherings tend to be somewhat small since we have family all across the country, but not very many family members living nearby. I still like things to be nice of course, and every once in a while I get the urge to add a little more formality.
This has worked out well, since people know I like to add a few flourishes here and there, so they weren’t surprised that I developed a seating chart and made place cards at the last get-together. To be quite honest, I did it more to separate certain guests than to add a sense of formality.
You know how it is. Every family has that one, shall we say “special” relative or long time family friend that has a knack for setting other people’s teeth on edge. Since we’re all family, we overlook little quirks and try not to let them become an issue. However, in many families there is at least one other person that cannot seem to get past the tactless comment or the less than polite table manners.
Maybe you have had similar experiences. There are at least two people that for whatever reason do not especially get along. Devising a seating chart and setting out place cards is a great way to make sure these folks don’t sit next to each other. In fact, the further you can place them from one another the better in some cases.
It’s a subtle way to head off problems before they can get started, and everyone including the two that tend to be at odds, will be glad you did it. As an added bonus, place cards really are a nice touch and add even more charm to your beautiful table.
Other articles that may be of interest:
Making Guests Comfortable in Your Home
Five Tips for Entertaining Long Term Houseguests