Quick Start: Print Place Cards from Google Sheets, Excel, or CSV

This guide covers the fastest route from spreadsheet to printable place cards. Use it when you already have a guest list in Google Sheets, Excel, or CSV and want one clean PDF for the full batch.

Step 1: Prepare Your Data

Before you start, ensure your data is organized in a spreadsheet.

• The first row should contain clear headers such as Guest Name, Table, Seat, or Meal.
• Each subsequent row should represent one guest or one printed card.

Supported formats:

• Excel (.xlsx, .xls)
• CSV (.csv)
• Google Sheets (via direct connection)

Step 2: Upload Data

1. Go to the Place Card Maker.
2. Click on the Data Source tab on the left sidebar.
3. Select Upload File or Connect Google Sheets.
4. Once uploaded, you will see your columns listed as available "Merge Fields".

Step 3: Choose the Card Layout

Pick the output that matches the event:

• 6 per sheet / 3.5" × 2" layout for a common printable place card setup
• Escort card layouts if you mainly need guest name + table assignment
• Custom sizes if your paper stock does not match a standard Avery template

To change dimensions, go to Page Settings (gear icon) and enter your custom width, height, and margins.

Step 4: Map Your Data to the Design

1. Add a text element for the guest name.
2. Bind that text to a column using Merge Fields.
3. Add Table, Seat, or Meal only if those details need to appear on the card.
4. Preview a few records before exporting the full PDF.

Step 5: Preview and Print

1. Click the Preview button to see how your place cards look with real data.
2. Flip through multiple records to confirm that long names and table numbers still fit.
3. Click Download PDF.
4. Open the PDF and print!

[!IMPORTANT] When printing, make sure your printer scaling is set to "Actual Size" or "100%". Do not select "Fit to Page". See Print Settings.

Where To Go Next

• Google Sheets Connection if your seating list is still changing
• Place Card Tutorial for a fuller walkthrough
• Place Card Sizes if you still need to decide between Avery-compatible formats