Hello! Is it ever appropriate to seat the photographer at a regular guest table? My photographer will be the only vendor at the reception and I would hate for her to feel exiled to a separate room to eat her her meal. She will be served the same meal as other guests. There are a few other posts on this site with questions similar to this, but they all involve multiple vendors. Can an exception be made here for a solo vendor, or do you think that she will feel more out of place eating with the guests? I just want to do the right thing and for her to be comfortable.

Rebecca Black, Etiquette By Rebecca

Dear SarahBee,

There isn’t anything wrong with it and is very courteous. So, if you don’t have a problem with it, go for it.

Best wishes,

Justin Gilbert Professional Photographer

If you are open to either option I’d ask your photographer what they want. I know my wife prefers to mingle with guests but I prefer to sit out of the way. Good on you for thinking of your Photographer though!

SarahBee81

Thank you both so much for your advice. I wasn’t sure if it would be appropriate to ask her, but I think I will go ahead and do just that!

Nancy Tucker

I totally agree. Many photographers prefer to be placed in an area where they can see what is going on during the dinner service. Seating the photographer with guests could provide him/her with a different perspective on your wedding and the family/friend dynamics.