1. Build one reliable list of people
Use one row per confirmed person, including named plus-ones and children needing seats. The tool does not manage RSVPs. Reconcile attendance and spelling before import.
CSV needs Name; Party groups households. Notes stay off printouts but remain in exported files.
2. Enter the tables you have agreed with the venue
Enter venue-agreed capacities in the planner. Six tables of eight provide 48 places for 46 guests. Spare seats help only when they are at a suitable table.
3. Place the groups that constrain your choices
Place less flexible groups first. A shared Party value lets Seat remaining guests keep unassigned household members together while preserving existing seats.
A party of nine cannot fit at an eight-seat table. Decide on a split or change the plan yourself. Event mode does not infer personal conflicts.
4. Check the room separately from the name list
Use the diagram for rough positions and the venue’s measured plan for clearances. Check how a guest will find their name, match the label and locate the table. Avoid inconsistent labels.
5. Produce a guest document and an editable backup
Choose table groups, an alphabetical list or table cards. The compact view abbreviates names. Test the paper size and check every confirmed person appears once.
Keep PDF and JSON: only JSON restores the editable plan. Use the organization guide for changes.