Within the time block of your reception think about order and timing that you'd want any of these key events to occur. Note that you will be able to choose multiple of any of the options below.

Wedding Party Entrance: 

While guests are filing into the reception room, the wedding party (bridesmaids, groomsmen, bridesmen, groomsladies, flower girls, ring bearers, etc.) and immediate family members are lining up to make their grand entrance. We will introduce the couple's parents and wedding party members as the VIPs dance into the reception. They may either form a line around the dance floor to watch the first dance, or take their seats.

Newlywed's Grand Entrance: 

Guests are asked to stand up and cheer as the newlyweds are introduced and enter the reception to a celebratory song of their choice. The couple may then take their place on the dance floor for the first time as a married couple.

First Dance: 

According to a recent WeddingWire study, 90 percent of couples performed a first dance during their wedding reception, making it the most popular wedding tradition. At some weddings, couples have their first dance immediately after entering the reception—at others, they'll wait until after dinner.

Welcome Speech/Prayer (Pre-Dinner): This is a nice opportunity for the newlyweds and/or their parents (the hosts of the event) to briefly thank all of their guests for attending the big day. Any blessings or prayers to be said before the reception meal will also be offered at this time.

Toasts and Speeches: Speeches and toasts are typically given as guests are enjoying the reception meal—they're already sitting down and are more likely to be attentive during this time. Usually, the order of wedding reception speeches goes as follows: The best man goes first, followed by the maid of honor, and parents of either spouse (traditionally, this spot is reserved for the father of the bride, but any parent/host can speak). Each speech should be brief, between one and two minutes, with three minutes being the max. The couple may also give a thank-you speech at this time. If desired, the shoe game, scavenger hunt, or other fun activity can take place at this point in the wedding reception timeline.

Special Dances: After the toasts, the couple and their parents hit the dance floor. Parent dances may include the father-daughter dance and/or the mother-son dance. According to the WeddingWire study, 59 percent of couples include parent dances as part of their wedding reception.

Special Games:

    Shoe Game: A fun, interactive game where the newlyweds sit back-to-back, each holding one of the other's shoes and one of their own. A series of questions are asked, and they raise the shoe that corresponds to their answer (e.g., "Who’s the better cook?"). It's a lighthearted way to entertain guests and let them learn more about the couple.

    Scavenger Hunt: A playful activity where guests search for items or complete tasks based on a list or set of clues. This can be customized to fit the theme of the wedding and is a great way to get everyone mingling and engaged.

Cake Cutting: ​After your guests have had a chance to cut loose, the wedding cake will be brought to the dance floor for the cake cutting. The newlyweds will cut the first slice of wedding cake together and feed it to each other. Dancing will then continue as the cake is served to guests.

Bouquet and Garter Toss: If you're planning on doing a garter and/or bouquet toss, it will require another break in the dancing. While some couples and their guests enjoy this tradition, others find it a bit gendered and dated. It's up to you whether or not you'd like to include these as part of your wedding day. 

Last Dance: It's almost time for the reception to come to a close. Your DJ or bandleader will announce the last dance so you and your guests can gather on the dance floor. Whether you choose a slow song or an upbeat tune, this moment's sure to be a memorable one. 

Grand Exit: Whether you're opting for a sparkler send off or a more low-key goodbye, it's time for you and your new spouse to depart the reception. This is a great photo op, so make sure your photographer has time to set up the perfect shot!