Reception Ettiquette
<b>Q</b>: What happens when at a reception?
<b>A</b>: Draw up your own schedule based on this general time line:
1. Cocktails are served outside the main reception room.
2. Wedding party arrives and receiving line forms.
3. Everyone moves into the main room (after picking up place cards) and is seated.
4. The MC (best man, bandleader or bride and groom) welcomes everyone.
5. The first dance may happen now
6. First course is served, or guests start going up to the buffet. (lf it's a cocktail or dessert reception, toasts begin.)
7. Toasts happen as guests are finishing their salad course or entrée.
8. Dancing begins with the first dance.
9. Couple's toast.
10. The couple cuts the cake; cake is served.
11. Bouquet and garter tosses (optional).
12. Dancing continues until the party winds down.
13. Last dance.
<b>Q</b>: Do we have to do a receiving line? How does it work?
<b>A</b>: I like receiving lines because they ensure that you'll spend one-on-one time with each and every guest on your wedding day. It's customary to have one if you've invited fifty guests or more, but if you're having a hundred or more, it's a must. The line can form casually at the ceremony site after the wedding (as people are leaving) or at the reception site as guests are arriving. Pick a spot (ahead of time) where there is room for people to form a line while they wait. Many couples include their parents-the bride's parents are first, then the bride and groom, then the groom's parents-or it can be just the two of you. Don't think of it as an annoying formality; you are simply standing still to facilitate all the hugs and handshakes.
<b>Q</b>: Who toasts. when, and in what order?
<b>A</b>: Toasting is the fastest-growing reception trend. It may begin before the reception meal is served, or between courses. Traditionally, the best man serves as master of ceremonies (you know, the famous best-man speech), toasting his pal and his new wife. The groom responds, thanking his family, the bride's family, and the guests, and finally toasting his bride. These days, the bride and groom often toast together. Often the maid of honor also makes a speech, and friends and family take the mike throughout the evening to tell stories and offer good wishes in marathon toasting sessions. Make it clear to your DJ, bandleader, or MC if you want people to be able to toast at will or not.
<b>Q</b>: What's the best way to find a good party-rental company?
<b>A</b>: Check online at www.TheKnot.com/local for rental companies. It 's a good idea to call the American Rental Association at 800-334-2177 (www,ararental.org) as well-cross-reference your list with local referrals from that national organization. When you visit a rental agent, supply this information: date, time, and location of your wedding; approximate size of your guest list; size and formality of the celebration; style or theme, if any; and any site specifics that will affect what you can rent or where you can put things. As with any wedding vendor, you'll want to draw up a contract or letter of agreement with your rental company.
Courtesy of <a class='navitem2' href='http://theknot.com'>The Knot </a> via <a class='navitem2' href='http://scrippsmedia.com'>Scripps Media</a>
