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Seating for parents

#1 User is offline   Lanjan 

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Posted 23 September 2025 - 08:51 AM

Our daughter is getting married this fall. I would like for her father and I to be seated on the right side (typically where the groom's parents/family and his guests sit) because we will be able to see her face during the ceremony as I am sure his parents would like to be able to see his face during the ceremony. Has anyone else done this?

#2 User is offline   Nancy Tucker 

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Posted 23 September 2025 - 09:07 AM

While I have never heard of this before I do not think it would be a breach of etiquette if you do it. It is an interesting concept but depending on your set up at the altar you may still not be able to see their faces during the ceremony. If you decide to do this be sure that your ushers are coached so they know where to seat guests for the bride or the groom.

#3 User is offline   Lanjan 

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Posted 23 September 2025 - 09:42 AM

Thank you so much for your quick reply, Nancy. Good point on checking out the set up at the altar before making that final decision as well.

#4 User is offline   RevSusanna 

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Posted 23 September 2025 - 10:03 AM

Some of my couples' parents have switched sides in order to better see their children's faces! It may not be traditional, but perhaps it is more important to be able to see your son or daughter's face as he/she takes his/her vows. Blessings! Rev. Susanna

#5 User is offline   Lanjan 

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Posted 23 September 2025 - 10:16 AM

Our thoughts exactly! Thank you for weighing in on the topic...I really appreciate it!

#6 User is offline   Wedding Queen and MOG 

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Posted 23 September 2025 - 10:32 AM

I was thinking the same...if they have their backs to the audience most of the time no one sees any face. But when they say their vows to one another they will be facing each other and then you'd be able to see each face. Personally, I'd like to see them both and always thought they should face the audience. :unsure:

Bless you for caring about the ceremony. So many focus on the reception. Sure, the party is fun, but the ceremony IS the wedding.

Please let us know what the couple decided and how it worked for you.

#7 User is offline   Lanjan 

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Posted 23 September 2025 - 01:22 PM

I certainly will let you know . It would be nice to see her face (and his parents would appeciate seeing his) even if it is only for a short time. Afterall, the vows are most important anyway. ;)

#8 User is offline   Wedding Queen and MOG 

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Posted 23 September 2025 - 01:31 PM

And, hopefully there will be a video.

#9 User is offline   Etiquette Now 

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Posted 25 September 2025 - 12:34 PM

Great ideas and there is no "rule" against changing sides. But, if you were to sit on the groom's side with his parents they would have to give you their permission and you two would not be in the "prime seats". They would have the aisle seats.

#10 User is offline   Lanjan 

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Posted 29 September 2025 - 09:56 AM

I was thinkng about all of us switching sides...:-)

#11 User is offline   Wedding Queen and MOG 

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Posted 29 September 2025 - 11:51 AM

I think it's a pretty good idea!

#12 User is offline   Lanjan 

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Posted 29 September 2025 - 11:57 AM

Well I will certainly let you know what we decide!

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