Wedding Reception Time Line

Wedding Reception Timeline In A Nutshell

(For a four-hour reception)

First Half-hour: While final pictures are taken of the wedding party, guests start arriving at the reception location, mingling, and getting something to drink. Non-dance music begins.

Second Half-hour to Hour-and-a-half: Guests sign the guest book, pick up their table cards, if any. Hors d'oeuvres are passed. The wedding party arrives and makes their entrance. A receiving line is formed (if there is to be one). Drink service and music continues.

Second Hour: Buffet is announced or guests are seated for sit-down meal. The wedding party is seated and served. Food is served to guests. At the end of the second hour, sparkling cider may be served and music ceases temporarily so the best man may propose the first toast.

Third Hour: Any additional speeches are made. First course is cleared from head table. Bride and groom have their first dance, followed by the dances with the parents and attendants, if desired. Dance music continues, and guests may follow on the dance floor.

Three-and-a-half Hours: Tables are cleared. Guests may mingle or dance. Musicians cease playing for the cake cutting ceremony. The cake is cut and served. Dance music resumes.

Last Half-hour: Bride and groom participate in bouquet and garter toss, if desired. The couple may choose to change into going away clothes at this time, and then rejoin the party. The couple makes their departure and guests see them off with a shower of rice, birdseed, flower petals, or other ceremonial gesture. The music stops, and guests start to leave. Parents and attendants gather personal belongings and gifts before leaving.