Should wedding place cards have first and last name?

Putting both first and last names on place cards is the safest choice. It prevents mix-ups between guests with the same first name, which is more common than you might think. It also helps waiting staff know who is who when they serve a meal with specific dietary requirements.

If you know your guests well and the group is small, you might be tempted to use first names only. That can feel warm and informal, but it only works if every name is unique and everyone knows each other. For a larger wedding, or one with many guests who have not met, full names are much clearer.

There is one exception. If a guest has a title, such as Dr or Lord, you may want to include it. But for most guests, first and last name is enough. Avoid nicknames unless you are certain the guest prefers one, because a formal place card is not the place for a surprise.