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Depending upon the formality and style of the wedding, a receiving line may be appropriate. Although a receiving line is not necessarily required, since it is unlikely that the bride and groom will have time to meet and mingle with every guest during the reception this tradition gives the bride and groom and the wedding party the opportunity to meet and greet all of the wedding guests. By meeting and greeting everyone in advance of the wedding reception it takes some of the pressure off of everyone during the reception allowing everyone to relax and enjoy the wedding celebration.
Although the receiving line is usually organized either immediately after the wedding ceremony or just before the reception, the exact timing of when the receiving line is to be formed is up to you based on the specific events and circumstances of the day. Be sure to consider the weather when considering the location for the receiving line and always have an alternative plan in mind should the weather change.
Since people do not usually enjoy standing in line for a long period of time, if you have a large wedding and anticipate a significant wait in line for the guests, consideration should be given to their comfort. Offering a beverage like champagne, sparkling water, water or punch to the guests can greatly lessen the discomfort of waiting in line to meet the bride and groom. Having friends, relatives and other wedding party members mingle with the guests who are in line will also lessen the discomfort.
Once the guests reach the receiving line, do everyone a favor by having the wedding party keep the verbal exchanges brief to keep the line moving smoothly - greet them warmly, let them know how happy you are that they could join you on the special day and then introduce the guest(s) to the next person in line. If anyone feels the need to carry on a lengthy conversation with a guest, there will be plenty of time- after the receiving line.
Traditionally the receiving line begins with the bride's mother, who is the official hostess. Depending upon the formality of the wedding and your individual wishes (and the length of time you want to be standing) you may have any or all of the wedding party members in the receiving line. Keep in mind however that more wedding party members in the receiving line means a much slower line.
Following is the customary order of the wedding party in the receiving line;
Mother of the Bride
Father of the Bride (optional)
Mother of the Groom
Father of the Groom (optional)
Bride
Groom
Matron of honor (optional)
Maid of Honor (optional)
Bridesmaids (optional)
Other members are optional and traditionally not part of the receiving line
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