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Wedding Speech Etiquette 2 - The Context
(Courtesy of Fine Wedding Speeches)
The traditional purpose of the reception is to welcome the guests who have often travelled a long way to be with you. It is also an opportunity to introduce members of the two families to each other. Unless the families of the Bride and Groom actually live locally to each other, it is most probable that they do not recognise each other, so some introduction is helpful.
The formal part of this welcome is achieved by arranging a 'receiving line'. Wherever possible, the Bride and Groom together with their parents should arrive at the reception venue before the other guests so that they are available to meet them as they arrive.
The toastmaster or best man will arrange the receiving line. The best place is in an assembly area or the entrance to the dining hall. The toastmaster should introduce each guest, by name, to their hosts.
The traditional order in the line is:
This introduction is not the time for a chat but for a quick courtesy comment. A compliment, thanks for the invitation, congratulations on the event, comment on the lovely service, etc. At some venues the design of the building or the number of the guests means that there is simply not enough space to hold a full six-person receiving line. In this case tradition allows for the Bride's mother to act as host, while the Bride and Groom circulate
among the guests to welcome them.
Once all the guests have been formally 'received' the toastmaster will ask them to take their seats for the meal. There is usually a seating plan and name signs at each table place.
Once the guests are seated, the toastmaster announces the arrival of the Bride and Groom and escorts them to their places on the top table. The guests stand and applaud during this. Normally seated at the top table are the Bride and Groom, their parents, the Best Man and the bridesmaids.
If grace is to be said, then while everyone is still standing is a good time. (Tip: The Bride and Groom should stay on their feet, as seeing them sit is a visual cue for the guests to sit also). If a clergyman is present, usually the one who performed the ceremony, then they will usually be asked to say grace. Otherwise a senior member of either family or the toastmaster may lead grace.
Once the dessert has been completed the toastmaster will announce the cutting of the cake, and invite guests forward to take photos, if practical. The real division of the cake is usually performed by the catering staff and served to the guests with coffee.
Champagne: After the coffee, champagne or other drink is served.
See our other articles on aspects of Wedding Speech Etiquette
Wedding Speech Etiquette 1 - Why it matters