Receiving lines

Receiving lines

Do you want to have a grand wedding ceremony with a lot of guests but aren’t sure how you’ll talk to all of them? Receiving lines are the way to go. It may depend on the venue or amount of guests that you have but it is definitely a great way to reach all of your guests. We want to give you some tips on when and where to have it and why it’s a good idea.

Receiving Line at the Royal Wedding

This is the receiving line from the royal wedding

When & Where Should It Happen

  • Generally it will happen immediately after the ceremony
  • A popular time to have it now is as guests are coming in to the reception
  • The most common way is to dismiss guests out of the church
  • Other common places are on the front steps or outside of the front doors
  • Location really depends on space available; you want your guests to be comfortable while waiting and you and your guests don’t want to be a sweaty mess because it’s too crowded.
  • If it’s being held before the reception, you could use the lobby, front doors leading into the main hall or even the dance floor.

Why You Should Choose to Have One

  • It is the perfect chance to thank your guests for coming & ensure you have personally greeted & thanked each guest
  • If you are having a large ceremony, it is proper to have one (usually 50 or more guests)
  • Without it you will be so focused on greeting everyone at a later time and probably miss out on a few guests

Who Should Stand In It

  • Bride & Groom
  • Brides Parents (Optional)
  • Grooms Parents (Optional)

Alternatives

  • Serve drinks as guests walk into the reception
  • Serve cake/desserts to guests
  • Set up a table with a blank puzzle or something to represent you and some pens so guests can leave their congratulations, then you frame it as a keepsake

Alternative to a traditional receiving line

This fun find is from Pinterest!

We hope this helps make receiving lines a little more clear. We want you to feel comfortable with reaching your guests anyway that you can. If you are looking for a great venue with plenty of space for any occasion check out the Harper Center!

 

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