top table dilema

MOH, Grooms Dad, Brides Mum, Groom, Bride, Brides Dad, Grooms Mum, Best Man

Id discuss and explain to step dad that you have decided to keep step-paents off the top table as you are limited by the size (this gets more complicated if he is closer to step dad than dad?) but the grooms parents dont traditionally sit next to each other so if they dont get on that shouldnt be a problem Alternatively put the grooms stepmum next to his dad and stepdad-to be next to his mum and switch the MOH and Best Man around? and still explain the situation to the stepdad he grew up with and hope he understands

Do you need them on the top table? Could each couple 'host' a table of their own? Sounds like they may prefer that.

I think it would be harsh to exclude a parent on the grounds of there being no blood relation. Lots of us have grown to with step-parents who were bona fide parents, despite not being biological parents. I'd feel really bad about doing that, if it were me

I went to a wedding that was bridal party on top table, then each set of parents had a table; (divorced on both sides, FOB and MOG on one, and vice versa on the other)

Seemed to work OK!

Do you want all the grooms parents/step parents on the top table? If you do then don't worry about what it looks like, just put them where they'll be most comfortable. Perhaps mum and new step dad to be on the same side as your parents then dad and step dad with relevant partners on the other?

H2b and his mum don't get on very well and we def don't want her new h2b on top table. in honesty if I were to not worry about anyone's feelings I'd put his dad and step mum on the top table with my parents and then put the others on the next tables.

But h2b is worried about how his mum will react!

Sounds complicated. If no one talks to each other then I'm sorry you'll have a very boring and awkward 3 hour meal. Put bridesmaids and ushers on your table and parents on either side but closest to your table.

I really want my parents there as we're both really close to them. H2B's dad wasn't really in his life as he was growing up but since we've had our children he's a lot more involved in our lives (and his wife) and they are the ones who have been most supportive, however his step dad brought him up (but for the last 4/5 years hasn't been around much at all and now has a new family which doesn't include h2b (I don't think this was step dads intention,. just the way it's worked)

Your parents will be there is it really nessessary you all it on the same table! You could all sit at different tables and still enjoy the day!