Being in the wedding industry and having coordinated several weddings, I have seen which activities work during the reception and which just fall flat. I like to share these with my clients prior to planning their big day so they can decide what they want to include in their wedding. I personally recommend cutting the cake in the beginning of the reception instead of waiting toward the end. When I say beginning, I mean after the bridal party’s entrance and dinner, but before the newlyweds’ first dance. The main reason for this suggestion is that the bride’s hair and makeup is still fresh – and we all know that’s important for the photos. Another reason to take photos with the cake earlier in the night is that you get it out of the way so you don’t have to worry about it later when you are enjoying the night and partying. I don’t like pulling the couple off of the dance floor when they are dancing and enjoying the moment later in the night. Lastly, nobody is drunk enough where their clothes are falling off and the photographer can get decent photos. I have actually seen this happen a couple of times lol when the couple still likes to do photos towards the end.

I think the most emotional part for me at the reception (besides the father/daughter dance) is the speeches. This is a great opportunity for the newlyweds to properly thank their guests for being there without going around to every single table. Even though going around to the tables is a lot more personal, it is also very time consuming and takes time away from the dance floor. Your guests are very excited to see you, and a brief hello will never be enough lol. It’s also great to say something memorable about you as a couple to include everyone in your journey to marriage, and your guests will always appreciate seeing that special bond between bride and groom, to know why they are there and how much you love each other and it’s not just about the wedding. Lastly, it’s your big day, and this is your chance to get up and have your moment with your significant other and speak from your heart to all your guests.

The slow dances during reception are special and should be unique to the couple as well. The first dance as husband and wife should be meaningful to the couple and remind them of their love and wedding day every time they hear it after their wedding has passed. My wedding first dance was “Close Your Eyes” by Michael Buble. The song is still special for us every time we hear it and reminds us of our wedding day. Some couples like to have a choreographed first dance I think that’s completely fine just make sure it feels like you and doesn’t look like you are trying. I love father/daughter dances because they are so special and beautiful. It’s the bride’s moment with her father and they should have their moment alone on the dance floor. Not a lot of couples do this, but I think the groom should have his dance with his mother as well, I think it’s only fair and I’ve noticed the moms are so honored when they are asked to have a slow dance alone with their son. I hope these pointers help a bit when planning your reception for your wedding day! ☺