How to Create a Seating Chart That Screams You

Let’s be real—seating charts get a bad rap. They’re usually the last thing people think about, slapped together with more stress than style. But we’re flipping the script. I absolutely love a well done seating chart.

Your seating chart isn’t just a directory. It’s your first impression. Your vibe-setter. Your moment to say, “Hey, welcome to my world—kick off your shoes, grab a drink, and take a seat.”

Whether you’re throwing a forest wedding under the redwoods, a backyard bash in Berkeley, or a wine country soirée in Sonoma, your seating chart is your chance to show off that laid-back California cool with a twist. Here's how to create one that’s dripping in personality and good energy.

1. Let Your Vibe Lead the Way

Start by asking yourself: What’s my style in one sentence?

Are you earthy and dreamy? Retro and quirky? Beachy and breezy? Your seating chart should feel like an extension of you—like a handwritten note in design form.

California Inspiration: Think rattan textures, surfboard shapes, desert tones, terrazzo details, vintage signs, or even a hanging macramé backdrop.

2. Ditch the Numbers (and Get Weird in a Good Way)

Table 1, Table 2? Snooze. Try naming your tables after:

• Local favorite spots you love (Muir Woods, Mount Tamalpais, Bodega, St. Helena, A16, Hook Fish, Foreign Cinema, Sol Food, or Cotogna). The biggest issue would be how would you possibility narrow it down! :)

• Iconic Cali references (Coachella, In-N-Out, Route 1)

• Your fave juice bar flavors (yes, Table Celery Sunrise is a vibe)

• Classic surf spots or hiking trails

It instantly adds flavor, and guests love finding a table that tells a story.

3. Go Big on the Display

No sad clipboards here. Turn your seating chart into an art moment. Try:

• A surfboard with painted-on names

• A vintage van door or window pane with calligraphy

• A tie-dye tapestry with names printed in bold

• A disco ball installation with hanging name tags (hello, funk!)

Make people stop, smile, and snap a pic.

4. Add a Dose of Fun(k)

Give your chart some character:

• Use funky fonts (hello, retro typefaces)

• Go for bold, punchy colors like coral, turquoise, mustard, or hot pink

• Add little symbols next to names—like 🌞 for sun-lovers, 🐚 for beach babes, or 🎸 for music heads

• Use playful language (“Find your crew + grab your seat, cutie” or “Park it here, party’s just starting”)

The goal? Make it feel like you on a really good day.

5. Don’t Sleep on the Materials

The material is the message. Think natural but fresh:

• Bamboo panels

• Acrylics in retro color blocks

• Reclaimed wood with a sun-bleached finish

• Corkboards with pinned Polaroids

• Vintage skateboards or surfboards as backdrops

Bonus: It’s all super on-brand with Cali’s eco-conscious, effortlessly chic aesthetic.

6. Keep It Easy (But Never Boring)

Yes, people still need to read the thing. So make sure your names and tables are clear—but that doesn’t mean boring:

• Organize by first name (especially for casual parties)

• Alphabetize with flair (use funky dividers or color-coding)

• Add tiny details that matter—like meal icons or fun facts

Final Chill Thoughts:

Here’s the thing—your event should feel like walking into your brain (in the best way possible). Your seating chart is your opening line. So make it fun, make it funky, and make it unapologetically you. Don’t be afraid to get a little weird with it—this is California cool, after all.

And if someone gets lost looking for their table? Even better. That’s how memories (and inside jokes) are made. I can't tell you how many times a guest says I'm not on the list and starts laughing as they continue to look for their name and discover all the fun personality you have put into your seating chart. Yes, finally that guest finds their seat and it's all smiles and laughs.

Want help designing one that’s totally you? Or need inspo that’s a little Mexico City meets Boathouse Rustic? Hit us up—we’re here for the magic.

For the ultimate coffeeholic + java enthusiast.

I had a couple create custom polaroids of each guest and on the back was a handwritten note to that guest. It was incredible how every guest felt so seen and loved with that extra attention to detail.

Not only do I love the idea of vinyl records making a comeback in seating charts but I've also seen a couple have guests sign their favorite vinyl record as their keepsake.

This idea comes from Style Me Pretty and I love the coastal vibe for this seaside wedding. If you're not the creative type, that's okay. There are literally hundreds of ideas on Pinterest if you just type your interest and then "seating chart."

We have literally used rocks, sticks, shells, fans, key chains, oranges, leaves, just about everything possible to write our guests names on for their name cards. I love this idea as it add such a bit of creative personalized style to the event.