Wedding Reception Order Of Events
What Does the Order of Events Look Like?
The order of events for a wedding reception can vary greatly depending on the couple’s wishes. Typically, receptions begin with an introduction of the new couple and their wedding party followed by a first dance. The reception usually includes a meal, cake cutting, toasts, and other activities like the bouquet and garter toss or a special dance or performance. It’s important to consider how you want your reception to flow and plan the order of events accordingly. Below is a breakdown of the typical wedding reception order of events.
Introduction of the Couple and Wedding Party
The reception typically begins with the DJ or band introducing the couple. The wedding party is then announced and they enter the room and make their way to the dance floor to take their places. This is generally followed by the newlyweds’ first dance.
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Meal and Cake Cutting
After the first dance, the meal is served and the bride and groom typically cut the cake. If the couple doesn’t plan to feed each other cake, a cake cutting ceremony is still typically done. During this time, the bride and groom will cut a piece of the cake and feed one another a bite. This is a sweet moment that is often captured in photos.
Toasts
After the cake cutting, a series of speeches and toasts are given by family and friends. The speeches are usually in honor of the couple, congratulating them on their big day and wishing them the best for their future. The speeches often include funny stories about the couple, funny anecdotes about marriage, or heartfelt and sincere words of advice.
Special Dances
After the toasts are complete, the reception may include special dances or performances. The father-daughter dance and the mother-son dance are popular traditions, as is the bouquet and garter toss. Couples can also choose to add their own custom dances, such as a money dance or a special performance.
Conclusion
The order of events for a wedding reception can vary greatly depending on the couple’s wishes, but the key elements are typically the same. Receptions usually begin with an introduction of the couple and wedding party, followed by a first dance. This is usually followed by a meal, the cake cutting, toasts, and other activities. Planning the order of events ahead of time can help ensure that your reception runs smoothly and that all of the key elements are included.
Closing Message
Planning a wedding reception can be a daunting task, but by breaking it down into individual elements, you can make sure that all of the key parts are covered. Once you know the order of events, you can begin to plan and decorate accordingly. Creating an enjoyable and memorable wedding reception is easier when you know what to expect.