Your wedding day is one of the most exciting and memorable occasions of your life. Part of what makes it so special is spending quality time with the ones that you love the most, both during the ceremony and at the wedding reception. If you’re in the process of planning your nuptials, then it’s smart to have an idea of the reception timeline. The following is a helpful timeline to make sure everything stays on schedule.

The First Hour

During the first hour after the wedding, allow guests some time to mingle, sip beverages, and catch up with each other. This is a good time for everyone to order drinks, have a light bite or two, and prepare for dinner. Afterward, everyone is seated for dinner. When everyone settles, it’s time to introduce the newly married couple! They’ll make their entrance and enjoy their first dance as spouses. Since all the attention casts on them at this time, it’s a practical moment to stop and thank everyone for coming to the wedding.

The Dinner Hour

Dinner may last anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour. Once the meal is complete, it’s time for the wedding party to take the stage and toast to the happy couple. Usually, the maid-of-honor and the best man are the ones who prepare speeches, but family members might also wish to say a few congratulatory words. As the speeches come to a close, it’s a good time to get up and dance, beginning with any parent-child dances.

The Last Hour

People may continue to dance for a while, especially if you have a DJ on site who is taking requests during the wedding reception. The party may be coming to a close, but there’s still time to make a few more memories. If you’ve decided to toss a bouquet or a garter, do so when everyone finishes dancing. Then, move on to cake cutting. It’s customary for the bride and groom to cut a piece and share it. Guests may take a seat at this point to enjoy tea or coffee with their dessert. Some couples might choose to end the event with a final goodbye dance before departing.
 

If you’re planning your wedding and want to host it in a spectacular spot, then look no further than Havelock Social Hall in Lincoln, NE. The banquet hall offers services for everything that you need. They can assist with every step of the planning process, from catering delicious food to setting up an unforgettable wedding reception. Visit them online to find out why they carry an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau® or call (402) 467-3002 to speak with a representative.