Wedding Reception Timeline
Cocktail Hour
This is the first order of business. Depending on the logistics of your reception, cocktail hour usually occurs immediately after the ceremony. This is the kickoff to the reception and should last at least an hour. The bar will be open so guests can get a drink. There will typically be passed hors d’oeuvres, in order to get guests mingling and in a celebratory mood. This might also be an opportunity for the bride and groom to get some more photos.
Invitation to Dinner – 15 minutes
Following cocktail hour, guests are invited to take their seats for dinner in the main dining room.
Grand Entrance – 10 minutes
After everyone is seated, the newlyweds are formally introduced to the wedding guests. Sometimes the couple will also do an introduction of their wedding party members.
First Dance – 5 minutes
Then you will transition right into the first dance with the bride or groom. You might choose to dance to the full song, or have it fade out after about two minutes. Afterwards, you should have some fun songs scheduled to get the party started before dinner!
Welcome Toasts– 5 minutes
This is the time to thank everyone for coming to your wedding. Usually, a family member (often the parents or a family member of the couple) offers a wedding reception welcome toast.
Dinner - 45 minutes
The dinner typically lasts about 45 minutes, depending on the meal-service style you choose (buffet, family-style, traditional three-course dinner, etc.)
Wedding Party Toasts - 10 minutes
In between each course, wedding-party members are usually invited to say a few words—mainly, the maid-of-honor and best man. Encourage toasters to keep their speeches within two to four minutes.
Cake Cutting - 10 minutes
About one hour before reception ends, the catering staff should start preparing tables for dessert and coffee. The wedding cake cutting usually signals the conclusion of the ceremony, so don’t schedule it too early. This is also a good time for the couple to say a few words and thank everyone for coming, if they haven’t already.
Parent Dances - 10-15 minutes
Father-daughter and mother-son dances are recommended for after the toasts, and then transitions to open dancing. After the last parent dance, ask your band or DJ to switch to a high-energy song to energize your guests.
Bouquet and Garter Toss – 10 minutes
Next up is the bouquet and garter tosses. Brides will toss their bouquet into a crowd of single women, to see who will receive good luck in being next to get married. The groom will toss the brides garter to single men, to see who will also be next to marry.
Last Song - 5 minutes
Now it’s time to open the dance floor back up until the last song, which should be five minutes before the end of the reception.
These are some of the most important events to consider when planning your wedding reception. This way you can make sure you don’t forget anything, and build around that. Now get ready for a smooth and fun wedding reception!