The Reception

The Reception (or the party, as many call it) will be the most memorable portion of the wedding for your guests. Its is important to make it a very personal affair. Add your character and personality, making your reception one of the best. Here are some things to consider for the reception.

Guest Book-Have someone in charge of the guest book. This way everyone can sign it. You can have people sign as they enter the reception.

Bridal Portrait-It is usually displayed at the front of the reception hall or on the guest book table.

Back ground video-Many couples are opting to have a video playing on a large screen TV during the reception. The video should reflect back on you and your husbands’ most memorable experiences growing up. Make sure you include photos from childhood to now. Get creative, guests really enjoy seeing the two of you grow up right before their eyes.

First Dance-It’s your dance, enjoy leading everyone onto the dance floor to get the party going. The first dance takes place after the meal. You may enjoy the spotlight for the entire song, or you can invite your guests to join in halfway through it.

Cutting the Cake-The bride and groom cut the first piece of cake together (get photos of this).

The Bouquet- Get all the single women in one area and toss the bouquet over your shoulder. The one who catches the bouquet will be the next to marry.

The Garter-After the groom takes the garter off the brides’ leg; he then tosses it to the group of single men. The man that catches the garter will marry next.

The Departure- The bride and groom make the grand exit and get hit with tons of rice, birdseed, or now many people are opting to blow bubbles as you walk by.

Want to have a great reception?

Is your reception location close to the ceremony site?
You may lose guests that have to drive too far between events.

If you have finger types foods, are they easy to eat?
Watch out when selecting hard to easy/messy foods. Be careful not to select extremely unusual foods.

Consider the mix of guests and select accordingly.
Choose your band or disc jockey carefully, they will set the mood for your party.

Don’t take too long with the pictures after the wedding.
Your guests are eagerly awaiting your arrival. Take as many pictures possible before the wedding.