Your Wedding Reception Timeline
Whether you have two, three, or four hours to party, here’s your guide for how it should flow.
Photo: Julie Mikos Photography
11:00 a.m. Guests head into the reception area and make their way to their seats.
11:10 a.m. The emcee introduces you and your groom; you do your first dance right away.
11:15 a.m. A welcome speech, a blessing or just the toasts, starting with the best man.
11:20 a.m. Brunch is served.
11:55 a.m. As guests are finishing their food, have your father-daughter dance, followed by the mother-son dance. Keep the songs short!
Noon A 40-minute power dance set.
12:40 p.m. The cake cutting.
12:45 p.m. Some slow songs play while the staff plates and serves the cake.
1:00 p.m. Guests are seated for cake.
1:15 p.m. The bouquet toss, if you’re going to do one. We recommend skipping the garter toss -- it’s a little early for that!
1:20 p.m. The final dance set begins. The most upbeat music plays now.
1:55 p.m. The last dance.