On my SFO-YYZ/YYC/YUL/YVR-SFO runs, the sequencing order is very apparent. The only time I have not been asked first, or second depending on if there is another SE in the cabin (usually 2 or 3 on YYZ-SFO legs, rarely more than 2 ex-SFO), is when the J cabin has had <10 people and the SD was not concerned. And usually that was the breakfast run where you have 10 egg-based dishes and 4 waffle/other dishes.

Internationally, I've found mostly the same. The one exception was earlier this year FRA-YYC, the SD went around the cabin of the 333 starting at 1A and making a U. But on his passenger sheet, all of the SE passengers we circled (there were 5 in total), and he commented "that will absolutely not be a problem Mr. Mugatu", while I did notice that he asked the person in front and behind me if they had a 2nd choice in case #1 was not available.

When my SO has been traveling with me, the SD has always asked both of us together - regardless of award ticket or revenue.

I did get a kick though on a recent ex-SFO flight where the SD thought I had switched spots with the man next to me (who happened to be wearing a suit and reading the Wall Street Journal), as the young bearded "hooligan" wearing jeans and a v-neck tee couldn't possibly be an SE, ha ha. Let's just say after that my wine glass was never more than 1/2 empty.....