We did the same thing last lan as well and the feedback was very positive. We obviously had more groups this time around, this is why I had to lock things down. I have a plan for future events to help with that a little. In the end there is no perfect solution, seats sell out so quick normally that groups aren't able to get seats next to each other.
As for being surprised, that is why I detailed everything ahead of time in the original post (
lanoc.org/forum/lanoc-v18-march-19th-and...noc-v18-registration) including a timeline and I sent out emails, PMs, and posted on the event Facebook group.
