So much planning goes into weddings. The checklist can be endless and sometimes certain details can get left out or completely forgotten. The reception seems to always be one of those areas that gets a little overlooked. This blog has helpful information and reminders on areas and aspects that need to be considered during this fun and celebratory time. These pointers will allow you to think of all the possibilities that need to be addressed so that it's all taken care of before that special day.
#1 Delegating last minute details
It's important to think of last minute details that will need to be taken care of right before the reception, but not before the wedding ceremony. These are things like putting your bridal portrait out, setting up the wedding favor table, or having candles lit on centerpieces. Find someone that you trust and delegate that person to take care of those things so they are not forgotten or done way after guests have already arrived at the reception.
#2 Deciding where your wedding party will be
From the moment the wedding party is announced into the reception, until the cake is cut and served - make sure that arrangements have been made for your wedding party. This means finding a location where everyone can be announced and enter the space without blocking anyone's view of the bride and groom or first dances. You might also want to consider if you want reserved seating for them and if they need to be aware of a certain time frame to be present for pictures or festivities.
#3 Creating a timeline for the reception
Take time before your wedding day to sit down and write out all the festivities that will take place at the reception. Think of how long you are wanting to have guests at your reception. Then fill in that time frame with special festivities you want to take place, like the following:
-announcing of wedding party
-first dances
-bouquet toss
-garter toss
-cutting the cake
-send off
This timeline will help make sure that everything takes place and nothing is forgotten or happens after most guests have left.
#4. Communicating with your DJ
Once you have your reception timeline in place, make sure that you share it with your DJ. This way, your DJ can make announcements when certain moments are taking place such as first dances, garter toss, cutting the cakes, etc. This not only keeps you on a schedule but makes sure that your guests are aware when everything is taking place so that they won't miss a minute of the fun! It's also helpful for your photographer if you ask your DJ to have only white lights while the first dances are going on, such as bride and groom, mother and son, and father & daughter dances. Also, remember to provide your DJ with an appropriate playlist for your guests, considering all ages and genres.
#5 Bustling your dress
Bustling wedding dresses can be complicated. Make sure that the store in which you purchase your dress from shows you how to bustle it. Some dresses might have to have special alteration in order to create a bustle. Some brides might decide to change dresses completely for their reception. Whatever you decide, just make sure that you have a trial run and have provided time for changing or bustling, so that you can be ready to enter the reception on time.
#6 Having your cake and eating it too
If you will have a traditional wedding cake at your reception, make sure that you have delegated someone to cut and serve the cake for your guests. It's also helpful to have a plate and filled toasting classes present at the table so it is ready to go when the time is right. If a member of the wedding party or family members are going to say toasts, perhaps let them know ahead of time so they have time to plan and prepare instead of making things up on the spot.
#7 Planning your send off
Most couples will want to consider a "fake" send off so that guests will all be present to celebrate the couple leaving. This way everyone is present to blow bubbles or hold sparklers while the couple is photographed. Regardless of how or when you do your send off, make sure that you delegate someone to make sure that it all happens. This means for instance if it is sparklers - have some there to light them and hand them out in a safe and fast way. Another thing you might want to consider is the timing of your wedding and how you want to celebrate your send off. For instance if you have a 2pm wedding in the summer, it isn't dark until after 8pm. Therefore sparklers would not be the best choice.
#8 Have Fun
Above all else - HAVE FUN! A reception is a party and celebration. Make time to soak up the first dances and heartfelt toasts, along with all the well wishes and hugs from your guests.
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