If we’re having a formal wedding, is it uncouth to skip the fuss and not assign seating?
Personally, I think it’s fine to skip the assigned seating, with the exception of the family and the wedding party. For those in the wedding party, I always encourage place cards. —L.K. A: No problem at all. It’s a pain. Really, the guests would prefer to choose their seating. Reserve tables for the groom’s family and bride’s family. Maybe you don’t put the divorced parents next to each other, but across from each other. —J.C. Q: I’m from Springfield, but I’m getting married in St. Louis. I want to use my local hairstylist’s services. What am I expected to pay beyond the service? Should I pay for a hotel room? A: Yes. She is performing a service for you. You need to be very respectful for taking her time. She could be serving clients in Springfield that day. Pay for the service and then offer to pay for the gas and invite her to the event. That’s a nice way to make her feel appreciated. —M.W. A: I would expect you to pay her travel both ways, food and lodging—any expense she would not
