Wedding Reception Essentials

Nowadays, there are so many different traditions involved in wedding receptions that we often forget what they're all about. Have you ever asked yourself, what really makes my wedding reception? Is it the food and beverages, the music being played, the first dance with your loved one or the ravishing centerpieces? When you plan your wedding reception, make sure that you don't forget all of the essential things that you need, such as:

Cocktail Hour

The best part about the cocktail hour is the fact that the newlyweds get to interact with all of their family and friends when they enter the venue. This is where the fact that you just got married really settles in and you can share that happiness with all of your loved ones over a nice glass of wine, champagne, or whatever type of drink you enjoy. Be sure to make time for everyone who came out to support you on your special day and say hello, a smile goes a long way.

Seating Arrangements

Typically, after the cocktail order your guests will line up with their drinks and wait in line to get their seating arrangement cards. Make sure you carefully think out your seating arrangements before the reception. You don't want anyone to feel uncomfortable at your wedding. Sit divorced couples, feuding family members and anyone else who doesn't get along far away from each other. This is your special day and you don't need an intoxicated relative ruining that for you when it's so easily avoidable. If you have friends, try to sit them with each other. Chances are, that your friends from college don't want to spend their night sitting next to your grandmother.

Food Choices

Not everyone coming to the wedding will enjoy the same types of foods, so be sure you select a wide variety of different foods to eat. It's best to have a selection of meats, fish and even a vegetarian dish. Ideally, you should send out menu cards a few months before your wedding so that you'll have a better idea as to what types of foods you should serve.

First Toasts

Toasts vary from wedding to wedding. Sometimes it's the best man who gives the first toast and other times the father of the bride may want to be the man of the hour and give his toast first. Figure this out before the wedding so that you don't have anyone stepping on each others toes. Remember, it's your night, you want it to be extra special.

The First Dance

This is probably the biggest moment of the night, your big dance with your now husband or wife. Pick a song that is special and meaningful to the both of you. Most times, you'll already know ahead of time what song you want your first dance to be to. Don't forget, if you're the shy type, it's completely fine to skip over this part of the reception. It happens more often than you think it does!

Music

Hey, this goes hand in hand with the first dance, kind of. Make sure you book a DJ or band that gets the type of music you're into and can really get the guests on their feet dancing. Even better, your entertainer can bring lighting to really make for an awesome wedding reception!

Finally, Cake Time!

If you want to keep it traditional, the bride is the one who holds the cake cutter and the groom places his hand over hers. If you're the type of couple who loves to have a good time, you can each grab a handful of cake and mash it in each other's faces.