A popular new idea is to have a place name caricature of each guest drawn in advance of the dinner from photos.
Drawn in permanent black ink and grey highlighter on postcard size Bristol board with a fold on the top edge, they are guaranteed to break the ice - especially if the names of the 'victims' are not included! Don't worry though a 'key' can be provided for the host in case identical twins are present..
Quite apart from their unique entertainment value each caricature makes a very personal going home present (or wedding favour) for your guests which can then be framed as a unique memento of the occasion.
The whole group can also be photomontaged into one large image on a hand drawn background of your choice and professional bureau prints provided on glossy photographic paper. 4' by 3' is quite feasable and looks great framed as a centrepiece on the day while each guest can take home a smaller A3 print tied with a bow.
Another idea to have scans of the place settings digitally printed into a leather bound Guestbook for your fiends to sign. Luke can arrange it all.
