Where to seat divorced parents at a wedding

If your parents are divorced or separated, seating can feel like the most delicate part of the plan. There's no single right answer: it depends on how well they get along today. These options work for most families.

Start with a conversation

Ask each parent, separately, what would make them comfortable. Many parents are happy to sit near each other for one day; others would rather not. Knowing this early saves guessing and hurt feelings later.

At the ceremony

• Parents who get along can share the front row, with new partners beside them.
• If there's tension, seat one parent in the first row and the other in the second, usually with the parent who raised you (or who is hosting) in front.
• In a traditional aisle layout, each parent can take the front row on opposite sides.

At the reception

• Give each parent their own table near yours, each hosting their side of the family. It honours both equally and keeps a comfortable distance.
• If they get along, a shared parents' table works well, with grandparents alongside.
• Avoid putting either parent at a table where they know no one; seat them with close relatives or friends.
• Keep equal distances from your table so neither parent feels ranked below the other.

When there are new partners

Seat new partners with the parent they came with. If there is lingering tension between a parent and an ex's new partner, place their tables so they aren't facing each other directly, and brief your coordinator so photos and toasts go smoothly.

A few small touches help

• Tell each parent where they'll be sitting before the day, so there are no surprises.
• Ask a trusted friend or relative to look out for each parent.
• Plan photo groupings in advance so nobody is left wondering where to stand.