Escort cards are a great way to direct guests to their assigned tables at a wedding reception. They can be simple or elaborate, depending on the wedding’s overall theme and style. Escort cards add a touch of elegance to the seating arrangement, and they can also serve as wedding favors for guests to take home. However, using them can seem complicated, but with a few simple steps, it is easy to make them look beautiful, fresh, and fun. This article will discuss how to use escort cards for a wedding.
What are escort cards?
Escort cards serve as a guide for your guests to direct them to their seating arrangements. Typically, the guest’s name is calligraphed on the outside of a small envelope, and inside the envelope is their seating assignment. This can be used in conjunction with place cards, or it can be used on its own. The place card will show the guest’s name at the table, and the escort card will show which table they will be seated at.
Types of escort cards
There are several types of escort cards to choose from, depending on your wedding’s theme and style.
1. Traditional escort cards
Traditional escort cards are usually small cards with the guest’s name and table number. They are placed on a table or display board in alphabetical order, making it easy for guests to find their names. Traditional escort cards can be printed or handwritten, but they should be easy to read.
2. Seating chart
A seating chart is an alternative to traditional escort cards, and it can be displayed on a board or wall. The chart lists all the guests’ names and their table numbers on a single display. This can be great for larger weddings, as guests can easily find their names without having to search through a pile of cards.
3. Display boards
Display boards are a great way to add some fun and creativity to your wedding. They can be used as an escort card or seating chart display. For example, you can use a vintage mirror or a rustic wooden board to display the guest’s name and table number. You can also add some flowers or other decorations to make it more attractive.
4. Table numbers
Table numbers are a great way to incorporate escort cards into your wedding reception decor. They can be used as the escort card, and the guest’s name and table number can be displayed on one card. You can also make them more attractive by adding some decoration, such as flowers or ribbon.
How to create your escort cards
Creating your escort cards is easier than you think, and it can be a fun DIY project for you and your partner. Here are some tips to help you create your escort cards:
1. Choose your style and theme
Choose the style and theme that reflects your wedding day. This includes your wedding colors, fonts, and overall theme. You can design your cards using a computer program, or you can hire a professional. Be sure to choose a style that is easy to read.
2. Print your cards
Once you have decided on your style and theme, print your cards. You can print them at home or take them to a printing shop. You can use cardstock, vellum, or any other paper that you like.
3. Calligraph your guests’ names
After printing your cards, calligraph your guests’ names on them. You can hire a professional calligrapher or do it yourself. This will add a personal touch to your escort cards.
4. Display your escort cards
Once you have completed your escort cards, display them on a table or a display board. You can also add some decorations, such as flowers or ribbon, to make them more attractive.
Tips for using escort cards at your wedding
Here are some tips to help you use escort cards at your wedding:
1. Make sure your guests can find their names easily
Display your cards in alphabetical order, or use a seating chart to make it easy for your guests to find their names.
2. Match your escort cards to your wedding theme
Match your escort cards to your wedding colors and theme. This will add a cohesive look to your wedding reception decor.
3. Use creative display boards
Get creative with your display boards. You can use a vintage mirror, rustic wooden board or anything that reflects your wedding theme.
4. Add personal touches
Add personal touches to your escort cards, such as calligraphy or a special message. This will show your guests that you have put thought and effort into your wedding day.
5. Double-check your guest list
Double-check your guest list to make sure that all the names and table numbers are correct. This will help avoid any confusion on the day of your wedding.
Conclusion
Using escort cards at your wedding reception is a great way to add some elegance, fun, and creativity to your decor. You can choose from a variety of styles and themes to match your wedding day. This article has discussed how to use escort cards for a wedding and provided tips to help you create beautiful and attractive escort cards. Incorporate these tips into your wedding planning, and your guests will be impressed with your attention to detail.
FAQ
What is the proper etiquette for escort cards?
Escort cards are an essential element of event planning as they guide guests to their designated tables. When it comes to addressing these cards, it is important to follow proper etiquette to ensure that all guests feel welcome and respected.
First and foremost, it is crucial to include the guest’s name on the card. This may seem obvious, but it is essential to avoid any confusion or misunderstandings. Always use the full first name of the guest rather than a nickname or abbreviated version. For instance, if your best friend goes by Sam, but her name is Samantha, you should always put Samantha on her escort card.
Besides the name, some additional information can be added based on the event’s level of formality. If it is a black-tie affair, titles such as “Mr.” or “Mrs.” should be included before the guest’s name. However, if it is a more casual event, it is perfectly acceptable to omit titles entirely.
While couples may attend events together, it is recommended to provide them with separate escort cards. This way, it will be easier for the couple to locate their seats, and it avoids any confusion over whether the escort card is for one or both people.
It is always good practice to arrange escort cards alphabetically by the guest’s last name. This arrangement makes it easy for guests to find their name and their assigned table. Additionally, adding a touch of personalization, such as matching the escort cards’ design to the event’s overall theming or color scheme, can add an extra special touch.
Finally, it is best to display escort cards in a prominent and easily accessible location. This location could be at the entrance to the reception hall, near the bar or cocktail area, or at the top of the stairs leading to the seating area. This display should be easy to read and convenient for guests to locate and retrieve their card.
While it may seem like a minor detail, properly addressing escort cards is key to ensuring that guests feel welcome and valued. Following these simple etiquette guidelines will make for a smooth, well-organized event and start it off on the right foot.
Whose name goes first on a card man or woman?
When it comes to addressing an envelope or writing names on a card, it is essential to know the proper etiquette to avoid causing any offense. One of the most frequently asked questions in this regard is whether a man’s name should come first or a woman’s name on a card. Traditionally, the order of the names depended on the marital status of the couple. If the couple is married, the man’s name will come first, followed by the woman’s name – for example, “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith.” This tradition stems from the idea that the man is the head of the household, and his name should take priority.
However, over the years, social norms have changed, and it is now more acceptable to use the woman’s name first. In today’s society, it is common to see a card addressed to “Jane and John Smith” or “Ms. Jane Doe and Mr. John Smith.” This change in etiquette is due to the social and political progress that has been made in recent years, promoting gender equality and eliminating gender stereotypes. Therefore, outside of the traditional, formal “Mr. & Mrs. John Doe”, the wife’s name is ALWAYS first when using first names.
the order of the names on a card should be a matter of personal preference. However, it is essential to consider the cultural and social norms of the person receiving the card. For example, if you were sending a card to someone from a more traditional or conservative background, it might be more appropriate to use the traditional format of putting the man’s name first. On the other hand, if the recipient is someone who is more likely to appreciate gender equality, using the woman’s name first would be more appropriate.
When it comes to addressing names on a card, it’s essential to be sensitive to the changing times and the importance of gender equality. If in doubt, follow the more modern practice of putting the woman’s name first, but always take into account the situation and cultural background of the person receiving the card. the most important thing is to send well wishes and show gratitude, regardless of how you choose to address the card.
Do you list man or woman’s name first?
In traditional etiquette, the order of names on an envelope address would follow a set of rules that would prioritize the woman’s name first. This convention was a sign of respect towards women and the concept of chivalry, which is why it was widely practiced. The reasoning behind this was that by placing the woman’s name first, it acknowledged their importance and made them feel significant. The man’s first and surname would come second, not separate. For example, the envelope would be addressed to “Mr. and Mrs. John Kelly.”
However, in recent times, this traditional convention has become less important, and it is now acceptable to write either the man’s or woman’s name first. It is no longer considered inappropriate to write the man’s name first, and this decision is no longer guided by a strict set of etiquette rules.
Both ways of addressing an envelope are perfectly acceptable in modern times. Traditionally, women’s names were listed first as a sign of respect, but today, it is more about personal preference. it is important to respect people’s choices and make them feel valued and significant, regardless of the order of their names on an envelope.
