Let the celebration begin
Your reception is where the formality fades and the fun takes center stage. Savor every moment
After the vows are exchanged and the confetti settles, it’s time to party. The wedding reception is your chance to celebrate your new chapter with good food, heartfelt toasts and plenty of dancing. Whether you’re hosting a black-tie affair or a barefoot beach bash, here’s how the evening typically unfolds, along with a few pro tips to keep it running smoothly.
Grand entrance
Kick off your reception with a high-energy introduction. This is your big reveal as newlyweds, and it sets the tone for the evening. Cue the music, get the wedding party hyped and make your entrance to cheers, applause or even a choreographed dance.
Pro tip: Keep the entrance upbeat and short so the energy doesn’t fizzle before dinner starts.
First dance
Once you’re in, the first dance is your time to slow it down. Whether it’s a classic ballroom number or something offbeat and personal, this is a moment for the two of you to connect while guests swoon.
Bright idea: If dancing isn’t your thing, consider a “first song” instead, where you sing or play a favorite tune together.
Dinner service
Food is fuel for the fun. Whether you go for a seated dinner, buffet or food stations, the goal is delicious, timely and memorable. Work with your caterer to keep things moving while allowing time for mingling and speeches.
Pro tip: Try to eat. It’s easy to get caught up in table visits and miss your own dinner.
Toasts & speeches
Cue the laughter, the tears and sometimes the inside jokes that only your cousins will get. Keep the lineup tight: usually the best man, maid of honor and parents. A quick “thank you” from the couple is also a nice touch.
Pro tip: Ask speakers to keep their remarks under 5 minutes. And no, this isn’t the time for roasts.
Parent dances
These are heartfelt traditions that often become unexpected tearjerkers. If you’re doing father-daughter and mother-son dances, choose songs that reflect your relationship; sentimental, upbeat or even humorous.
Cake cutting
Your cake moment is part photo op, part tradition. Keep it sweet (or silly), and don’t forget to share a slice with your guests. If you’re skipping a cake for a dessert bar or cupcakes, consider a ceremonial “first bite” instead.
Dance floor opens
This is when the party officially kicks off. Let your DJ or band build momentum, and don’t be afraid to be the first ones out there. The dance floor often follows the couple’s lead.
Pro tip: Want to keep the energy up? Mix old favorites with modern hits so everyone finds something to groove to.
Bouquet toss (or not)
Some couples love the tradition, others skip it entirely. If you’re doing a bouquet or garter toss, keep it playful and fast. It’s a fun way to break up the dance floor and spotlight your single friends (with their consent, of course).
Late-night snacks
Reinvigorate your guests with a surprise snack. Sliders, fries, pizza slices or a local specialty are always crowd-pleasers.
Bonus: They soak up the drinks and give everyone a second wind.
Last dance
End on a high note. Choose a meaningful slow song or a group singalong favorite to wrap things up. This is your last official moment as the center of attention, so make it count.
Pro tip: Once the last dance ends, have a clear plan for your exit, whether it’s a sparkler sendoff, vintage getaway car or just a quiet moment slipping away together.
