Wedding Reception Order of Events

As professional wedding planners, we know that most couples have never planned a wedding before, and that’s totally normal! That’s why we created this simple, beginner-friendly guide to help you understand the typical flow for weddings in the Southeast.

Before we dive in, keep in mind that you can customize your reception in ANY way that feels right for you. Don’t want a grand entrance? Skip it. Prefer speeches after dinner? Easy. Want to move your first dance to later in the evening? Go for it.

This guide is simply a helpful starting point so you can understand how a reception usually unfolds and then build a timeline that fits your style, comfort level, and priorities.

Transition time

After cocktail hour wraps up, we always build in about 15 minutes of transition time for guests to move into the reception space. This window allows everyone to check the seating chart one more time, find their table without feeling rushed, and even grab a fresh drink before taking their seats. It helps the reception start smoothly and keeps guests from feeling rushed.

Photographer: Alexis May

Grand entrance

If you choose to include a grand entrance, this is when you’re formally introduced into the reception. You can keep it simple with just the two of you, or make it more energetic by introducing your wedding party, parents, or anyone else you want to highlight. It’s a fun way to gather everyone’s attention and officially kick off the celebration.

Photographer: Tierney Faith

First dances

Many couples go straight into their first dance right after the grand entrance while everyone is already focused on the dance floor. It’s a smooth, natural transition into one of the sweetest moments of the night.

After your first dance, you can move right into the parent dances (father/daughter, mother/son) or any combination that fits your family dynamics. You can customize this however it feels right for you and your loved ones.

Photographer: Alexis Dimmer

Welcome/blessing

A parent, family member, or officiant may give a short welcome speech or blessing. Traditionally, this is done by whoever is financially contributing to the wedding, but you can absolutely choose anyone who feels meaningful to you. It’s a warm way to thank your guests for being there and to transition into dinner.

Photographer: Hunter Hennes

Dinner

Guests are seated and dinner begins, whether plated, buffet, stations or family style. This is your chance to eat, breathe, and enjoy being newlyweds. Couples can enjoy dinner alongside their guests or slip away for a private meal together in a quiet corner of the venue.

Photographer: Alexis Dimmer

Speeches

Speeches usually happen toward the end of dinner while guests are still seated and attentive. This often includes the Best Man, Maid/Matron of Honor, and/or parents, but it’s completely up to you who speaks (or if anyone speaks at all!). If you prefer to have more dance floor time, we recommend moving your speeches to the night before during the rehearsal dinner.

Photographer: Sprayberry Studios

Cake cutting

After dinner and speeches, you’ll cut the cake (or your dessert of choice). This signals that dessert is coming soon and is one of the key moments photographers love to capture before dancing begins.

Photographer: Lillie Redpath

Dance floor opens

Once the cake is cut, the DJ or band can invite everyone to the dance floor. Helpful tip: before the wedding day, let your DJ/band know your “party starter” song. This is a song that will get everyone on their feet and set the tone for a night full of dancing!

Photographer: Megan Kuhn

Bouquet toss/garter toss

If you decide to include these traditions, they usually take place mid-reception with a quick pause in dancing. Many modern couples skip them altogether, and that’s perfectly okay.

Photographer: Ashley Blair

Last group song of the night

Near the end of the reception, the DJ or band gathers everyone for a final big group dance. It’s a fun, high-energy moment before the night winds down.

Photographer: Matlock & Kelly

Private last dance

Once guests head outside for the send-off, many couples will do a private last dance together. It’s an emotional, quiet moment to soak in one of the best days of your lives.

Photographer: Taylor Felts

Send off

Your guests line up to cheer you on, whether with sparklers, bubbles, glow sticks, ribbon wands, or something unique to you. This is the perfect way to end the night on a joyful note.

Photographer: Coastal Roads

Your wedding reception should reflect your personality, not a rigid checklist. This guide gives you a clear starting point, but feel free to rearrange, remove, or add anything to fit your vision. As planners, we build custom timelines every single day, and the truth is: there’s no wrong way to do your reception, only the way that feels right for you.

Need help building a personalized reception timeline? We’d love to help! Reach out to us today to learn more about the wedding packages we offer here at Before the Vows.