Seat Saving Considerations

I've been asked about saving rows of seats at a graduation ceremony. Is it acceptable?

I believe one person saving a whole row of seats is not acceptable. It is especially frustrating and inconsiderate when the seat saver’s companions show up just as the event begins. It leaves those who are considerate enough to come early and find a seat very annoyed. Everyone else had made an effort to arrive on time, and yet the savers allow their guests to barely make it.

I see nothing wrong with a person saving a seat on either side of his or her own seat, but any more than that borders on being inconsiderate and possibly rude.

Photo credit: Matt McGee (flickr.com)