PLANNING
THE RECEPTION Your reception will account for the majority of your wedding budget and planning efforts. Make the most of both by taking time to orchestrate it. The timing of key moments should be communicated to all vendors, guests and wedding party. TRANSITION FROM CEREMONY TO RECEPTION Avoid a large time gap between the ceremony and reception. Out-of-town guests tend to feel a little lost; guests arrive at the reception feeling less than fresh after wearing the same celebratory clothes all day; those with children will have to arrange for all-day childcare. DIRECTING YOUR GUESTS If the ceremony and reception are at different locations, specifically designate someone to greet and guide your guests to the cocktail or reception area, or make sure there are adequate signs directing them to the proper place If you are having the ceremony and reception in the same facility, this rule still holds true. ASSIGNED SEATING If you opt for assigned seating, provide a copy of the seating chart to your caterer or event planner so they can arrange the seating cards in advance. In the case of open seating, reserve specific tables for yourselves and the bridal party, as well as family and honored guests. TIMELINE Most receptions last about four hours. That compressed amount of time, should accommodate the following: • Formal introduction of the bride and groom (as you enter the room) • Seating of guests at their tables • Your first dance, joined by your parents, then wedding party, then guests • Toasts, to begin as the first course is served • Main course • Dancing • Cake cutting and dessert course • Bouquet and garter toss • Grand finale—the couple’s departure
MAKE IT YOU! While the very idea of a ceremony and reception may seem quite traditional, yours can be completely unique. Weave your interests, hobbies, culture and passions into the tapestry of your celebration. And most importantly, don’t sweat the small stuff. Things happen and plans change. n
Disc Jockey Photo Booth Karaoke Green Screen Photography White Screen Minister Lighting Concierge Service
S P E C TAC U L A R B R I D E .C O M
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