The manner in which one seats relatives or important guests at a wedding reception could be a “costly” mistake if there is an accidental error in improperly seating them at a “non-important” table. It could even cause an uproar or sour a relationship.
One key thing to keep in mind is that the table arrangement should be done in a manner that allows guests to feel comfortable with each other. For example, place guests with similar interests or common backgrounds at the same table. The seating arrangement also gives an indication of whether guests are important to the bride and groom. If improperly placed at a table that does not reflect their status, this could indicate to the guests that they are not as relevant to the couple. My friend told me that at his wedding, a mistake was made in not placing one couple at the appropriate table. As a result, the couple got so mad that they left the city (since they flew in) without saying goodbye. My friend had a strained relationship with that couple for months and had to go through a lot of trouble to repair the misunderstanding.
My advice, whether you like it or not, there is a lot of politics involved in seating arrangements in terms of making guests feel they are given the respect they deserve and making them feel at ease.