Create a Floorplan for Your Wedding: The Basics

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, but creating a floorplan can make the process a lot easier. A floorplan can help you visualize the space you have to work with and ensure that every aspect of your wedding is accounted for. Here are some tips on how to create a floorplan for your wedding. Be sure to talk to your wedding planner for a more in-depth approach and assistance with creating floorplans.

1. Measure Your Space
Before you can start creating a floorplan, you need to measure the space you have available. Most venues will provide a sample digital floorplan for you to start with. If not, measure the length and width of the areas you plan to use and take note of any features that may affect the layout, such as pillars or fire exits.

2. Decide on your Layout
Think about what kind of layout will work best for your wedding. Do you want round tables, long banquet tables, or a mix of both? Consider the number of guests you will have, and make sure there is enough space for everyone to move around comfortably.

Note:

Just because the room can hold 200 people, doesn’t mean it should!

(We joke that a venue’s “capacity” really represents standing room only. It’s better to cut the capacity in half to ensure that there is plenty of room for everyone to comfortably navigate and exist within the space. Avoid rooms that are too big for the guest count. This can make the wedding feel empty (especially if you have less guests than anticipated).We also highly avoid “flipping” a space if at all possible. There should be enough room carved out for ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception activities no matter what. There should also be a back-up plan and location for outdoor events should the weather change).

3. Choose 3 Focal Points
Every good floorplan has at least one focal point, every great floorplan has at least three. Whether it's the dance floor, the head table, or a decorative centerpiece. Choose focal points that will draw attention to the flow of the space and add to the overall ambiance of your wedding.

4. Create a Seating Chart
Once you have your layout and focal point in mind, it's time to create a seating chart. This can be a time-consuming process, but it's important to make sure every guest has a seat and is accounted for. 

5. Add Finishing Touches
Finally, add any finishing touches to your floorplan, such as decorations, lighting, and signage. These small details can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your wedding.

Creating a floorplan may seem like a lot of work, but it's an important part of the wedding planning process. With a little time and effort, you can create a beautiful and functional floorplan that will make your wedding day unforgettable.

Image: KAE Wedding, The Broadmoor Hotel & Resort, Colorado Springs CO