The Proper Way to Address Place Cards

Place card are a small but important element to formal events such as weddings and dinner parties. These cards help guests identify where they will be seated during the event. It also provides a way for the host or hostess to help guests meet each other by placing those with similar interests together. Does this Spark an idea?

What To Include on A Place Card

The way that the host or hostess should address these cards will depend on the event. Formal events will have place cards that show the guest's name and proper title. A guest's title, last name, and table number should be the only items included on a place card. The name is written or printed on the front with the table number on the back. Informal events do not have to adhere to these rules, but hosts often do to avoid confusion.

A first name can be included when there are multiple guests with the same last name. This avoids confusion at events such as weddings where many family members are referred to by the same title and last name.

Addressing Cards for Additional Guests

Invitations to weddings and dinner parties often allow for a someone to bring an additional guest to the event. The host should inquire about the guest in advance if possible. This allows the host to provide the additional guest with a properly addressed place card. If the name cannot be provided in advance, the card for the additional guest should only have the word "Guest" on the front and the table number on back. If the event is large and multiple additional guests will be present, the table number becomes important to distinguish which unnamed guest will be seated at a certain table.

Special Titles

If a guest has a special title, the title should be included on the place card. Common special titles include those for a doctor, government representative, military personnel, and members of the clergy. When a guest uses a special title, the Mr., Ms. or Mrs. title is dropped. If you are unsure how to properly address the guest with the special title, refer to a style guide or etiquette guide for the proper abbreviation.

A person not holding any type of special title will be referred to as Mr., Mrs., or Ms. Guests who are children should also be referred to as Mr. and Ms. for formal events.

Knowing how to properly address place cards for all formal events shows guests that the host knows proper etiquette and that the time was taken to get it right.