What is the Difference Between Escort Cards and Place Cards?

The main difference between escort cards and place cards lies in the level of specificity regarding guests' seating arrangements. Here's a breakdown of their differences:

Escort Cards:

• Inform guests which table they will be sitting at, allowing them to choose their own seat at that table.
• Typically displayed at the entrance to the reception space or during cocktail hour.
• Can be less formal and may also serve as a memento or keepsake for guests.
• May include a symbol that indicates the guest's meal choice.

Place Cards:

• Indicate the exact seat assigned to each guest, providing a more straightforward approach to seating.
• Displayed at every place setting, either on the plate or just in front of it.
• Ensure that VIP guests have the best seats and prevent guests from ending up at the wrong table.
• Often used in conjunction with a seating chart that tells guests which table to go to first.

In summary, escort cards guide guests to their assigned table and allow them to choose their own seat, while place cards specify the exact seat assigned to each guest. Place cards are often used with a seating chart, whereas escort cards can serve the same purpose without the need for a separate seating chart.

Comparative Table: Escort Cards vs Place Cards

The main difference between escort cards and place cards lies in how they guide guests to their seats at a wedding or event. Here is a table summarizing the differences:

Escort cards are used to guide guests to a specific table without assigning them a particular seat, allowing them to choose their seat once they reach the table. Place cards, on the other hand, assign guests to a specific seat at a table, providing more structure and ensuring that each guest has a designated seat. Escort cards are more commonly used at less formal weddings, while place cards are typically used at more formal weddings.