DEAR MISS MANNERS: What is proper placement at a dining table? Specifically, where is the head of the table?
GENTLE READER: The head of the table is where the host is seated. Miss Manners presumes you are asking in your capacity as host, and not as a guest, but the answer is the same.
The only difference is that, if the table itself does not make the answer obvious, then you will need to convey that information so no one sits in your chair. This can be accomplished with place cards or by telling guests individually where they are to sit, both of which are less work than constructing a dais or procuring fan-bearers.