Seating when both families are large

Start with elders. They get the quietest tables with a clear path to the prayer room and the buffet. Put parents near the stage if speeches matter; put them near the exit if they want an early leave.

Cousins and school friends can fill the louder middle. Keep the two people who should not share a table on opposite sides of the room, not across a centrepiece. Mixed families do better with bilingual place cards and a host who walks the floor once before food starts.

A seating chart on paper still beats a group chat argument the morning of. Print two copies: one for the planner, one taped backstage.