Bring up a wedding, and, for most people, one of the first images that pop into our heads is that of a grand dinner table, set beautifully with candles and flowers and, of course, assigned seating.
Traditionally, this has always been the way of the wedding world, probably because it is the most formal option and easier for planning (though many brides will tell you that creating seating arrangements is one of the most stressful parts of a wedding.) A formal sit-down also keeps the big day on a set schedule of events (hopefully.)