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Formal Event Seating & Courtesy
The social event of gathering together to share in a feast, meal, drinks or just about any reason (not that we really need a reason but we hate to pass one up) was typical in the medieval and renaissance periods for members of Royalty and Nobility. Since members of Royalty were typically in attendance, more formal rules for seating to honor them had to be instituted.
At any “formal gathering” or feast, the top table in the hall shall be considered the High Table and is for the use of the Royal Members and their guests. The middle seating shall be reserved for the highest ranking Royal Member in attendance and subsequent seating from inside out by levels of rank both directions. For example, if the King / Queen are in attendance, they shall be seated at the middle of the High Table with the Duke / Duchess then Marquess / Marquise, on either side followed by the Earl / Countess and Baron / Baroness, and so on.
Formal Event – Table Arrangements
- Table placement for larger feast and/or formal gathering:
- The High Table may be placed in front of two other tables which extend out on the side similar to that of a “U” shape configuration, with the front table considered the High Table.
- Seating is typically along the outside of the “U” so as to make service easier and also to allow everyone an unobstructed view to the Royal Members and the Royal Members may oversee all members in attendance.
- An alternative table arrangement that may be used during a smaller gathering:
- The High Table may be placed in front of a single or multiple of tables extending outward from the center similar to the letter “T” configuration.
- When time for seating has been called and members of Royalty are in attendance, proper etiquette would be to remain standing until the highest ranking Member of Royalty, Nobility or Head of Household in attendance has given the announcement to be seated.
- Service should always begin at the High Table and with the highest ranking guest in attendance.
