Accommodating Seating Requests?

Q. An old friend has discreetly asked me not to seat her with one of our other guests at the reception. She says the two of them have had a recent falling-out. Although I haven't finalized my seating chart, I had thought of seating them together. Must I comply with her request?

A. As the bride, you ultimately decide who sits where, and each guest has an obligation to accept his or her seat assignment and take the high road when conversing with others at the table. However, you surely want your guests to be comfortable and enjoy themselves. And even though your friend has put you in an awkward position, she probably wouldn't have said anything unless she genuinely anticipated a problem. It would be kind of you to respect her request if doing so doesn't completely disrupt your planning, but at the very least, you could ensure that these two guests are not seated right next to each other. After all, a fun time for your guests makes for a happier celebration.

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Peggy Post