Place cards Vs. escort cards. What’s the real difference?

And which is right for you? A guide to help you find your footing (literally).

It’s wedding season! You’ve checked the big items off your list, but now you’re scratching your head over the seating logistics. You know you need something in calligraphy to show people the way, but you’re not sure exactly what. Look no further—we’re here to help you navigate the world of paper and ink (and your seat).

What is a place card?

Place cards serve a dual (and very important) purpose: they guide guests effortlessly to their assigned seats and provide a visual cue for catering staff to ensure every guest receives their correct meal. They’re kind of like a seating map — telling your guest exactly where they will be sitting for the evening — and if they arrive there earlier, letting them know who their table neighbor will be.

And if you’re thinking pen and paper in your head — think again. In a way, place cards are stationery chameleons. Their possibilities are endless. They can be traditional tents cards (aka folded), made out of paper, acrylic, pasta noodles (like these ones from egcalligraphy) and quirky and beautiful like the ones coming from the pretty written things studio.

Not in the mood for paper? Place card materials are endless — like these agate ones.

Note: You’ll still need a seating chart or escort card to usher guests to their right table placement. A seating chart will let them know what table they will be seated at, and the place card will let them know which exact seat is theirs. Easy as the pie that will be served during dessert.

Place cards can be a fun way to lean into your event’s theme — like adding a brooch.

So What is an ESCORT card?

Unlike place cards, escort cards direct guests to their table. And most often, they have the freedom to sit wherever they’d like in said table.

Passages in early books talk about this courtesy:

“At formal dinners, on arrival, a gentleman is handed a tray with cards, among which he finds one containing his own name, with that of the lady he is to escort to dinner.”

Escort cards can come in many shapes and sizes. They can be cards on a tray, they can be handed to guests in an envelope, or it could even be a physical person letting them know which table they’ll be sitting at.

Whether you opt for escort cards or place cards, our calligraphy turns a logistical detail into a beautiful memento. It’s more than just a way to find a seat; it’s a personal touch that welcomes your guests and honors their presence at your festivities. Ready to bring your vision to life? Get in touch today to discuss place cards, escort cards, and everything in between.