Wedding Reception Timeline Example

Your Wedding Reception Timeline Guide

Don't know where to start when it comes to the wedding reception order of events? Don't panic, we've got you covered! Our hour-by-hour rundown will help you put together the perfect reception schedule.

This guide covers everything from the arrival of guests and the serving of appetizers and drinks, to the timing of speeches, the first dance, and the cutting of the cake. It offers advice on how to balance formalities with fun, keeping the energy high and the atmosphere joyful. With tips on timing, transitions, and coordinating with vendors and the wedding party, this guide is an invaluable tool for creating a reception that flows effortlessly and celebrates your union in style.

• 5:30pm — Cocktail Hour
• 6:30pm — Guests Enter Reception
• 6:45pm — The Grand Entrance
• 6:55pm — First Dance
• 7pm — A Welcome to the Guests
• 7:20pm — Meal Service Begins
• 7:45pm — Speeches
• 8:15pm — Parent Dances
• 8:25pm — Wedding Guests Called to the Dance Floor
• 9:30pm — Cake Cutting
• 10:50pm — Last Dance
• 11pm — Grand Exit

5:30pm — Cocktail Hour

Depending on how you've organized the portraits with your wedding photographer, you might not see much of this part of the reception! As traditionally, couples would leave their guests, following the ceremony, to go and take photos with their photographer. However, modern couples are now choosing to bring these photography sessions forward. Shooting not just newlywed portraits and first looks before the ceremony, but also pictures with family and the wedding party. Which means everyone gets to enjoy cocktail hour comfortably, without the threat of being led away by the photographer for a portrait!

During this hour, guests will typically be served drinks that suit the occasion and tastes of the guests. Alongside appetizers (hors d’oeuvres) positioned either on display tables or served by staff. Cocktail hour is a great time for casual mingling with guests, taking a few selfies and relaxing. Before moving onto the more formal part of the reception.

Get started with your timeline

6:30pm — Guests Enter Reception

Be sure to enlist the help of either your professional wedding team, emcee, or loved ones to announce that it's time to enter the reception space. Getting everyone into the wedding venue, and sitting in the correct seat, is not always straightforward. Therefore, be prompt with this section of the wedding reception timeline. Otherwise, you'll risk further events being delayed or rushed.

6:45pm — The Grand Entrance

If your wedding party members are happy to be the center of attention, then they would typically make their entrance before the married couple. Individually, or in pairs, and sound tracked by some upbeat song played by the DJ. Your parents could also make their entrance at this time, if you/they so wish. Just make sure Dad doesn't steal your spotlight with his crazy dance moves!

Following the entrances of the wedding party, the couple is introduced.

6:55pm — First Dance

Following your grand entrance, you could go straight into your first dance. Which is a great way of keeping the momentum going, and ticking off a nerve wracking moment. But if you'd rather save this part of the reception until later in the evening, it also works well following the toasts or dinner service.

7pm — A Welcome to the Guests

Traditionally, a family member, often the father of the bride, will introduce themselves and welcome everyone to the reception venue. This speech, or toast, will also involve a thank you to everyone for their help in putting things together.

7:20pm — Meal Service Begins

If you're hosting a seated dinner reception, rather than a buffet or cocktail celebration, this would be when the first course is served. Judge when to schedule speeches and the rest of the dances based on the meal service you've chosen.

Start your wedding timeline

7:45pm — Speeches

For those hosting a reception dinner with various courses, it's a good idea to schedule toasts in-between them. Potentially, after the first course has been served.

Traditionally, speeches will be given by the maid of honor and the best man. But if any member of your wedding party would like to share a few words, we believe that should be encouraged! But only if they've requested to in advance.

8:15pm — Parent Dances

Father-daughter, and mother-son dances make a lovely final flourish to an evening wedding reception dinner service. You could also include other family members in this section, depending on your circumstances.

8:25pm — Wedding Guests Called to the Dance Floor

Formalities almost over with, it's now time for everyone to hit the dance floor! Typically, the emcee will call guests over, and hit play on a track they know will get more than just the bride and groom on their feet. While you and your guests are on the floor, dancing the night away, the emcee may pause things momentarily to announce preplanned events. Such as the garter and bouquet toss, cake cut, or any other cultural traditions that mean something special to the couple.

9:30pm — Cake Cutting

Guests love the wedding cake cutting moment as it's that portion of the timeline that allows for a breather from dancing, and a sweet moment to capture the married couple. The majority of guests will also consciously, or unconsciously, understand they need to start wrapping up the festivities. And prepare to say goodbye.

Whether you want guests to stop and watch you cut the cake, or would rather the band or DJ keeps them on the dance floor, have the wait staff prepare the cake and equipment in advance. Plates, silverware, serviettes, and the knife to cut the cake itself should be put together by the caterer. Alongside coffee and any other desserts.

10:50pm — Last Dance

How fast has that four-hour reception flown by! That's why it's so important to plan your wedding reception timeline so meticulously. Otherwise moments might be missed. The last dance is the perfect example of an event that should be scheduled in, as it helps to make the entire celebration feel a lot more rounded. Much better than simply cutting the power to the turntables and sending everyone home!

Whether you keep the moment casual, or prepare a surprise dance performance of your last song — just ending with the spotlight on you both will be a fitting finish.

11pm — Grand Exit

Make your grand exit something to remember. Be it a sparkler finish, decorated getaway car or a helicopter! This is the final moment of your wedding, make it lasting.

Conclusion

In conclusion, crafting a well-thought-out wedding reception timeline is pivotal in ensuring that your celebration runs smoothly, regardless of the number of guests. From the moment your guests arrive, indulging in appetizers and drinks, to the final dance of the night, each element should be meticulously planned. This timeline not only sets the pace for the evening but also helps in organizing the sequence of events in a way that keeps the wedding party and guests engaged and enjoying every moment. By considering these key factors, you create an atmosphere of seamless joy and celebration, making your wedding reception a memorable experience for all.