How to Nail the Viral ‘Take a Shot, Take a Seat’ Wedding Trend

This post is all about how to create a ‘Take a Shot, Take a Seat’ wedding seating chart.

If you’re planning a wedding and want to add something unexpected, fun, and totally unforgettable, the viral “Take a Shot, Take a Seat” trend might be just what you need. It’s everywhere right now—from dreamy Pinterest boards to viral TikToks—and couples are loving it for its one-of-a-kind energy and guest-approved charm. This buzz-worthy idea doubles as a seating chart and an icebreaker, giving guests a little liquid courage while they find their place at the table.

Whether you’re going for rustic romance, modern chic, or a laid-back backyard vibe, this clever twist on the traditional seating chart fits right in. It’s perfect for couples who want their wedding to feel more like a celebration and less like a formal affair.

Here’s your complete guide to pulling off the “Take a Shot, Take a Seat” trend like a pro.

Step 1: Pick the Perfect Display Table

The base of your setup matters! Choose a table or stand that fits your wedding aesthetic. You could opt for wooden shelves, a book stand, IKEA free standing shelves, or if you are looking for a bespoke wall like above you could contact a local carpenter. Instagram is a great place to find local carpenters.

Make sure it’s big enough to hold all your shot glasses and is stable enough to avoid spills or tipping. Elevate the table with a pretty runner, draped linen, or decorative flowers to give it a polished look.

Pro Tip: Position your table in a high-traffic area, like the entrance to the reception or near the cocktail hour, so it gets the attention it deserves.

Step 2: Create a Bold Sign

You need a sign that tells your guests exactly what to do—and sets the tone for the fun ahead. Whether you’re hand-painting a wooden board, designing a digital sign to print, or ordering a custom acrylic sign from Etsy, make sure it includes the key phrase:

“Take a Shot, Take a Seat!”

Play around with fonts, colors, and materials to match your theme. For extra flair, add a second line like:

“Find your glass, raise it high, then head to your seat nearby.”
“Cheers to love and table numbers!”
“Grab your shot and find your spot!”

Step 3: Choose Your Shot Glasses

Now it’s time to decide on the vessels. Matching glass shot glasses look clean and uniform, while mixed vintage styles can give your setup that whimsical, collected-over-time feel. Want to give guests a favor they’ll keep? Get the glasses personalized with your wedding date, initials, or a fun quote.

Disposable plastic shot glasses are budget-friendly and easy to clean up, but if sustainability or aesthetics are a priority, stick with glass. Also at my own wedding we opted for miniature bottles from TEMU, as it was much easier to transport beforehand.

Step 4: Add Name Tags + Table Numbers

This is the functional part of the display, so don’t skip it! Attach name tags to each glass with the guest’s name and their table number.

There are several ways to do this:

Tie small tags around the glass with twine or ribbon.
Use vinyl stickers on the glass itself.
Print name cards and place them in mini holders in front of each shot.

Make sure the font is clear and readable. You don’t want Aunt Linda squinting over 40 shot glasses to find her seat! You may even want a paper sign next to it for ease of reading!

Step 5: Pick the Perfect Pour

This is where the fun begins. Choose a signature shot that represents you as a couple. Think:

Tequila with lime wedges for a fiesta vib
Whiskey for a moody, rustic barn wedding
Limoncello for a romantic Italian-inspired feel
Vodka with cranberry splash for a pink, feminine twist

Also consider non-alcoholic options for your guests and kids! Try and get a shot that matches the color scheme of your alcoholic shots e.g. flavored lemonade.

Think about a coloured drink that suits your wedding theme. We went with limoncello shots as these fitted our beach vibe. My color theme was yellows and pinks.

You can even create two or three options and color-code the shot glasses. And don’t forget your non-drinking guests! Offer mocktail shots, juice, or a creative soda blend so everyone can join in.

Pro Tip: Don’t fill the glasses too early. Pour the shots right before guests arrive to keep everything fresh and safe.

Step 6: Dress It Up with Decor

Make your shot station a photo-worthy moment by adding beautiful decor that ties into your overall wedding theme.

Ideas to consider:

Floral arrangements or greenery runners
Candles or fairy lights for ambiance
Themed props like mini disco balls, feathers, or vintage bar tools
A mirror backdrop or arch to frame the space

Make it personal: add framed photos of you and your partner taking shots, a timeline of your relationship, or a mini chalkboard with a funny quote about drinking.

This station will likely be one of the most-photographed parts of your wedding—so give it that extra sparkle!

Step 7: Time the Reveal Just Right

Timing is everything. If your guests walk in and see this setup before they’ve had a cocktail, it sets the tone for a fun, relaxed event right from the start.

Ideal times to reveal the “Take a Shot, Take a Seat” station:

During cocktail hour, right before the reception
As guests enter the venue from the ceremony
Immediately before dinner is served

Have someone from your wedding party or a coordinator nearby to guide guests and keep the flow going. Make sure its in a place that everyone can see it.

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Setup:

Have napkins or small trays nearby for guests to carry their shot glass if they don’t want to drink it right away.
Designate someone to refill or tidy up the station if needed.
Display a drink menu next to the station to explain what’s in each shot.
Snap a few photos before guests arrive to capture the full display untouched.

Final Thoughts

The “Take a Shot, Take a Seat” trend isn’t just a fun gimmick—it’s a memorable experience that gets your guests mingling, laughing, and celebrating from the very first moment. It also simplifies your seating chart in a creative and interactive way.

Whether you’re planning an elegant mountaintop wedding or a backyard bash with BBQ and lawn games, this trend adds a playful twist that everyone will remember.

So raise your glass, take a shot, and get ready to take your seat—because this is one trend that’s definitely worth the buzz.

Cheers!

This post was all about how to create a ‘Take a Shot, Take a Seat’ wedding seating chart.