Wedding Receiving Line Etiquette--Greeting
Your Guests with Style
Even though it's a great tradition with a long history,
some couples choose not to greet their guests in a receiving
line fearing that this might take too long. Frank Gregoli,
a top New York party planner says realistically, one
should allow 30 minutes for every 100 people in the
line. If this time allotment fits within your plans
and you'd like to be certain that you personally welcome
and thank each of your guests, read on.
Know the Basics
Being familiar with the basics of what a receiving
line is all about will immediately help you to feel
comfortable with this elegant formality.
Exactly when and where the receiving line is formed
is really based upon your particular situation. In general,
people like to form their line either in the vestibule
right after the ceremony or at the entrance to the reception
area.
With the exception of the groom, this is really a lady's
affair. Here's the lineup: first in line is the bride's
mother, followed by the bride, the groom and, next to
him, his mother. Dads, groomsmen, bridesmaids, and children
in the wedding party generally are not a part of the
receiving line. If for some reason you choose to include
any of these people, keep in mind that every person
you add will cause the line to proceed slower.
Short and Sweet
Once everyone is in position, the rule should be to
keep greetings brief yet warm and sincere. This will
avoid a bottleneck. If there is time before your wedding
day, review your list of guests with the groom and parents.
A little homework never hurts.
Since your mother and you are the first in line, it's
expected that relatives and friends of his side of the
family will introduce themselves to each of you. As
your relatives and friends proceed, you should introduce
them to the groom and his mother.
Include the Pleasantries
Consider adding a few pleasantries if your receiving
line will not be in a house of worship. This will liven
up everyone's mood, get conversations going, and make
waiting in line easier for your guests. For instance,
you could:
Include music--Have the band or your dj positioned
close enough so that there is music in the background.
Plan ahead though. You don't want to have to take time
to make these arrangements at the last moment.
Pass the tray--Ask your caterer to set hors d'oeuvres
and champagne on a table nearby or have a waiter offer
these on a tray.
Receiving Guests Like a Pro
There are always instances where, for one reason or
another, a person's name is not ready to roll off your
tongue. You can handle these moments as if you've been
in receiving lines all your life by saying something
like: "I'm so glad you came. (Groom's name) and I hope
you'll have a wonderful time." Or you could say, "It's
great to see you again. Please say hello to my husband,
(Groom's name)." Or "Thank you so much for coming. (Groom's
name) and I feel lucky to be with so many good friends."
Keeping these simple ideas in mind will help you look
and feel like a savvy new bride.
© 2005 Bachcroft Publishing. All Rights Reserved.
About the Author
Jean Bachcroft is a former public relations director,
founder of Bachcroft Labels, and the publisher and editor-in-chief
of Town and Country Shopping Bargains Magazine.
For designer wedding, holiday, and year-round mailing
and return address labels, visit Bachcroft
Mailing and Return Address Labels .
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