Best Man's Seat: Where Should He Sit At The Wedding?

The best man is the groom's right-hand man and plays an important role in the wedding. The best man is usually a close friend or relative of the groom and is chosen for the role because of the significant part they play in the groom's life. The best man's duties include planning the bachelor party, giving a speech, and keeping the wedding rings safe, among other responsibilities. One of the most common questions about the best man's role is where they should sit during the wedding. While there is no definitive answer, some options include sitting at the top table with the rest of the wedding party, sitting at a separate table near the top table, or sitting with the groomsmen. Ultimately, the decision is up to the couple and what they prefer.

The best man sits to the immediate right of the bride in a traditional setup

The best man is part of the wedding party and, as such, traditionally sits at the top table with the newlyweds and other important members of the wedding party and their families. The top table is usually positioned front and centre, symbolising the union of two families.

In a traditional setup, the top table is typically arranged in a long, straight line facing the other tables. There are eight chairs, with the bride and groom seated in the middle. The bride is seated to the right of the groom, with the groom's father to her left and the bride's mother to his right. The best man sits to the immediate right of the bride, with the maid of honour next to him and the groom's mother on his other side. This seating arrangement acknowledges key people and represents the joining of two families.

However, it's important to note that not all families fit the traditional mould, and there are alternative seating arrangements to accommodate different family dynamics and personal preferences. For example, the newlyweds may opt for a 'sweetheart table', a small table for just the two of them, allowing them to enjoy an intimate first meal as a married couple. Alternatively, they may decide to forgo a top table altogether and sit with different guests for each course, mingling with their loved ones and making everyone feel included.

The best man can be seated elsewhere if the couple prefers a non-traditional setup

The best man's seating at a wedding is flexible and can be adjusted to fit the couple's preferences and dynamics of their wedding party. While the best man traditionally sits at the top table with the newlyweds and other honoured guests, this setup is not mandatory.

If the couple prefers a non-traditional setup or has a large wedding party, the best man can be seated elsewhere. For instance, the couple may opt for a separate table for the wedding party or a sweetheart table for just the newlyweds. Alternatively, the best man can be seated at a table with their date or close friends of the couple.

The seating arrangement can also be influenced by the type of ceremony, with civil ceremonies often offering more flexibility than traditional church weddings. Ultimately, the couple can choose to forgo a top table altogether and seat their wedding party with other guests, emphasising the celebration's inclusivity and uniqueness.

The best man may sit at a separate table with the rest of the wedding party

The best man is traditionally seated at the top table with the newlyweds, their parents, and the maid of honour. However, this arrangement can be altered to suit the couple's preferences and family dynamics.

One option is to have the best man and the rest of the wedding party sit at a separate table. This approach can be particularly suitable for couples with a large wedding party or those who want to prioritise their wedding party while still keeping things traditional.

The wedding party table can be positioned close to the top table, with bridesmaids and groomsmen alternating around it. If space allows, their dates can also be included, which is preferable as it ensures that siblings' partners won't have to sit separately. This setup ensures that the wedding party feels special and looks great in photos, with their matching or colour-coordinated outfits.

Another variation is to have a "sweetheart table" for just the newlyweds, allowing them to enjoy their first meal as a married couple intimately or with more privacy. This table can be slightly removed from the rest of the tables or placed in the middle of the room to encourage socialisation with other guests.

Ultimately, the seating arrangement for the best man and the wedding party can be customised to fit the couple's unique circumstances and preferences.

The best man may be seated with the couple if there is no wedding party

The best man is traditionally seated at the top table with the newlyweds, the maid of honour, and the couple's parents. However, this arrangement is not set in stone and can be adapted to suit the couple's preferences and family dynamics.

If the couple chooses not to have a wedding party, the best man may still be seated at the top table with the couple and their parents. This set-up allows the best man to remain by the couple's side and enjoy the celebration with them. Alternatively, the couple may opt for a more intimate arrangement, such as a "sweetheart table" for just the two of them.

In the absence of a wedding party, the couple may also decide to include their closest friends or immediate family members at the top table. This can create a warm and inclusive atmosphere, with the best man taking a seat among the couple's dearest companions.

Ultimately, the seating arrangement is a personal choice, and the couple can tailor it to their unique preferences and circumstances. Whether the best man joins the couple at the top table or not, the key is to ensure that everyone feels valued and comfortable on this special day.

The best man's date may or may not be seated at the head table, depending on space

The head table typically has eight chairs, with the bride and groom seated in the centre, flanked by their respective parents, the maid of honour, and the best man. However, this traditional setup may not always be feasible, especially if the wedding party is large or if there are additional considerations, such as divorced parents or step-parents. In such cases, couples may opt for alternative arrangements.

One option is to have a separate table for the wedding party, allowing them to sit with their significant others. This setup is ideal when there is limited space at the head table and ensures that the wedding party feels special and looks cohesive in their matching outfits. Alternatively, couples may choose to forgo the traditional head table altogether and instead have several "important" tables where family members can sit and host their friends or family.

Ultimately, the decision on whether to include the best man's date at the head table depends on the couple's preferences, the size of the wedding party, and the available space. It is important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to seating arrangements, and couples should feel free to tailor the seating plan to their unique needs and dynamics.

Frequently asked questions